Asking the Right Questions at a Property Viewing

18 Sep 2024

by Callum White

Looking at a new home can be super exciting! Within just 30 minutes, you’ll have the chance to ask questions that can help you decide if a property is “the one” for you. It’s a short time to get all the answers you need, so it’s important to know what to ask — and who better to ask than the estate agent or current homeowners? They can give you the inside scoop on everything from how long the house has been on the market to any recent renovations. These are things that might not be immediately obvious but could make a big difference in your decision.

To help you out, we’ve put together a list of ten essential questions you should ask during your property viewing.

1) How long has the property been on the market?

This is a great starter question. Knowing how long a home has been listed can help you gauge how quickly you might need to act. If it’s been on the market for a while, there may be room to negotiate on the price. You can also ask if there have been any offers. The agent may not disclose exact amounts, but they might hint at the level of interest, which helps you understand the competition and strategise your offer.

2) How long have the owners lived here, and why are they moving?

Don’t be shy! Most sellers have a good reason for moving that won’t raise any red flags. However, if they’ve only lived there for a short time and give vague reasons for selling, it’s worth probing a bit further. Sometimes, a seller might be in a rush to move — like if they’re relocating for work — which could give you a chance to negotiate a better price.

3) What work has been done on the home?

Find out about any recent renovations or repairs, as this could reveal potential issues or improvements. If major works have been done, like an extension or loft conversion, check that all the proper planning permissions were obtained. Verifying these things early can prevent any future headaches and costs.

4) Is the property in a conservation area?

Dreaming of making big changes? If the property is listed or in a conservation area, there could be restrictions on what you can alter. Asking upfront saves time and prevents disappointment if your grand plans aren’t feasible.

5) Have the sellers found their next property?

If the sellers have already found a new place, they might be more eager to sell, which could work in your favour. But if they’re still looking, be prepared for a potentially longer process, which could affect your moving plans.

6) What’s included in the sale?

Be clear about what’s staying and what’s going. Sometimes things like white goods, sheds, or other fixtures might not be included. It’s also good to know where the property boundaries are — this isn’t always obvious!

7) What are the homeowners favourite and least favourite things about the area?

This question often encourages people to share more honest opinions. They may mention things that you wouldn’t have considered, like neighbourhood quirks, traffic noise, or local gems. Also, consider doing your own research on local schools, crime rates, transport links, and amenities.

8) How much are the bills?

Understanding ongoing costs like council tax and utility bills is crucial. These regular expenses can have a big impact on your monthly budget, so ask for recent bill amounts to get a clear picture.

9) What are the internet speeds and phone reception like here?

Good connectivity is a must-have these days. Ask about the internet speeds and mobile signal strength, and double-check with online tools to make sure you’ll be well-connected in your new home.

10) Can we come back again?

Always aim to visit a property more than once before making a decision. A second viewing, ideally at a different time of day, gives you a better feel for the property. This could also be a chance to ask if there are other interested parties, which can help in your decision-making process.

Bonus Tips: Key property details to confirm!

• Freehold or Leasehold? Find out the type of ownership — this can affect costs and what you can do with the property.
• Energy Efficiency Rating: Check the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for insights into the property’s energy efficiency and potential running costs.

This list is just a starting point! There are always more questions to ask and factors to consider based on your own needs and preferences. If you’d like more guidance or have specific concerns, please do give us a call — we’re here to help!

Ascot: 01344 874300

Bracknell: 01344 860121

Adapted From MY Home Move