Detailed Checklist of Property Viewing for Buyers & Renters
Do you know what really happens during a property viewing? Many people feel confused when they go to see a house or flat for the first time. A property viewing checklist helps you see the real condition of the place so you can decide if it’s right for you. At the Real Estate Agents London, we’ll explain everything in the blog that is necessary for you to see before buying a property.
Property Viewing Checklist to Buy or Rent a House
The checklist for buying and selling a house will help you to choose the right property for you to make good decisions.
1. First Impressions (Outside the Property)
- Look at the walls: Are they cracked, damaged, or recently repaired?
- Check the roof: Any missing or loose tiles?
- Windows: Are they double-glazed? Do frames sound good?
- Gutters and drains: Any leaks or blockages?
- Garden or yard: Is it tidy? Any large trees close to the house?
- Chimney: Is it straight and in good condition?
- Does the home feel well cared for from the outside?
2. Inside the Home
- Walls & Ceilings: Any cracks, stains, or signs of damp?
- Floors: Are they level and in good condition?
- Storage: Can you see enough built-in or flexible storage options?
- Windows & Doors: Do they open easily? Are the locks working?
- Light Switches & Sockets: Do all the switches and outlets work?
- Heating & Boiler: How old is the boiler? Is central heating installed?
3. Living & Dining Areas
- Brightness: Is the room naturally light or a bit dark?
- Space: Will your existing furniture fit comfortably?
- Fireplaces: Are they decorative or working?
- Electrical points: Are there enough in the right places?
4. Bedrooms
- Space: Will your bed, wardrobe, and furniture fit?
- Storage: Are there built-in wardrobes or space for wardrobes?
- Privacy: Can people outside see into the room easily?
5. Bathroom Checks
- Tap water: How’s the water pressure? Does hot water come quickly?
- Damp: Any mould, peeling paint, or damp smells?
- Shower & Toilet: Does the shower work well? Does the toilet flush properly?
- Ventilation: Is there a working extractor fan?
6. Kitchen Checks
- Condition of cupboards and worktops: Are they sturdy and clean?
- Appliances: Are they included and working (oven, fridge, dishwasher)?
- Space: Will your appliances fit? Is there room for a dining table?
7. Garden or Outdoor Space
- Sunlight: Does it get sun most of the day?
- Privacy: Are neighbours overlooking your garden?
- Maintenance: Will the garden be easy or time-consuming to care for?
- Boundaries: Fences or walls in good shape?
8. Parking and Access
- Is there a driveway, garage, or on-street parking?
- Will you need a parking permit?
- Is the street busy or quiet?
9. Extra Things to Ask the Agent
- Are there any recent repairs or planning permissions?
- What’s included in the sale (curtains, appliances, fixtures)?
- Is there a burglar alarm or fire safety system?
- How energy efficient is the home (EPC rating)?
- What are utility costs like?
10. Location & Local Area
- How close are transport links like bus stops and train stations?
- Are shops, parks, and other amenities nearby?
- What’s the neighbourhood like? (Quiet, family-friendly, etc.)
- Which school catchment area does it fall under?
11. If You’re Viewing a Flat
- Lease details: How many years are left?
- Service charges and ground rent: How much and how often?
- Condition of shared spaces: Clean and well-kept?
- Neighbours: Are they homeowners or renters?
- Noise: Can you hear people from above/below?
Top Tips for Viewing a House
- Take your time during the viewing and look at every room properly.
- Bring someone with you for a second opinion.
- Stay calm and avoid making emotional decisions.
- Make quick notes of anything that looks unusual.
- Check if there’s enough storage space for your needs.
- Don’t be influenced by staged furniture or decor.
- Listen to noise levels inside and outside the property.
- Think about future changes or renovations you may want.
- Walk around the area to get a feel for the neighbourhood.
- Trust your instincts about how the place feels.
- Check the garden and sunlight direction if there is an outdoor space.
- Look at parking options and traffic at different times.
- Watch for damp, mould, cracks, or any damage.
- Test taps, lights, windows, and doors during the viewing.
- Measure room sizes to see if your furniture will fit.
- Take photos (with permission) to review later.
- Research the neighbourhood before your visit.
- Set your priorities so you know what matters most.
- Ask the agent any questions you have.
- Imagine your daily routine to see if the home suits your lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
In the end, property viewing helps you see the home in real life before you decide. It lets you check if the place is in good condition and if it fits your needs. Take your time during the viewing and ask questions. From Real Estate Agents London, you can feel sure that you’re making a good decision by following the checklist for viewing a property.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are buying a property, then you will hire Estate Agents who will arrange an appointment for you to look at your property. This will be a good opportunity before purchasing a property.
When viewing a property, focus on the overall condition, including walls, floors, windows, and signs of damp. Check how much natural light the rooms get, whether your furniture will fit, and if the heating, water pressure, and electrics work properly. Also, look at the outside area, parking, and the neighbourhood to make sure the property fits your needs.
To arrange a viewing of a property, contact the estate agent or landlord directly by phone, email, or the online listing. Also, tell them your preferred date and time, and they’ll check availability for you. Once confirmed, they’ll share the viewing details and any instructions you need to know.
After a property viewing, take some time to think about what you liked and what didn’t feel right. Compare it with any other properties you’ve seen and check your notes or photos. If you’re interested, contact the agent to ask follow-up questions or arrange a second viewing before making a final decision.
You should spend around 20 to 30 minutes at a house viewing to check the main details properly. If you need a closer look, a second viewing can help you inspect things in more depth. Taking your time ensures you don’t miss anything important before making a decision.
Before a viewing, make a shortlist of what matters most to you, like space, location, or budget. Bring a checklist, your phone for photos, and any questions you want to ask the agent. It’s also helpful to look up the area and check travel routes so you know what to expect.
You should arrange a house survey after your offer is accepted, but before you fully commit to the purchase. This allows you to check the property’s condition and spot any hidden problems. Getting the survey early helps you decide whether to go ahead, renegotiate, or walk away if major issues are found.
A virtual open house makes the property viewing easy for buyers to tour online from anywhere and save time. This gives the features and a clear idea before the visit and helps serious buyers to make a quick decision.
Yes, you can apply for a property without viewing it, especially if you’re confident after seeing photos, videos, or doing a virtual tour. However, it’s always safer to view the property in person to avoid surprises or hidden issues. If an in-person visit isn’t possible, try to arrange a detailed virtual viewing before applying.
Our Agents
Adil Saleem
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Rizwan Ashraf
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