Questions to ask when viewing a property

In this week's episode of ESPC's First-timers Club, Megan is joined by Tzana Webster from Ralph Sayer, an ESPC solicitor estate agent member firm, to chat through what first-time buyers can expect from a property viewing including how to prepare, red flags to look out for and what NOT to ask.

Whether you're looking for a house or a flat, the handy tips, insights and advice from Tzana in this episode will help you make the most of your viewings by highlighting the key questions to ask when considering a property for sale. Here are some useful questions to ask when viewing a property...

15 questions to ask when viewing a property for sale

1. What is the reason for selling the property?

Asking this can give you insight into whether there are any issues with the property or neighbourhood that you should be aware of. Sometimes sellers are moving for positive reasons like relocation for work or to upsize/downsize, but it’s also important to know if there have been problems with neighbours, maintenance, or something else affecting the decision.

2. How long has the property been on the market?

If the property has been on the market for a long time, it may indicate something undesirable about it (e.g., overpriced, issues flagged in previous viewings). Conversely, if it’s been listed recently, you may face more competition for the property.

3. What offers have been made on the property so far?

While an agent may not give specifics, they may indicate if the offers were close to the asking price, under, or over. This will help you gauge what kind of offer to make.

4. Has the property had any major renovations or repairs?

Knowing about past renovations or repairs (e.g., new roof, rewiring, plumbing) can give you confidence that the property is in good condition. However, it also alerts you to potential future issues if there hasn’t been any work done in a long time.

5. What is the condition of the roof, plumbing, and wiring?

These are key areas that can lead to major expenses if problems arise. The home report may note some issues, but you should confirm if the seller has addressed them.

6. Are there any damp issues in the property?

Ask if any moisture readings or damp were noted in the home report, and if so, has the issue been addressed? Damp is a common problem in properties and can lead to costly repairs if ignored.

7. What is included in the sale?

This could include appliances, light fixtures, and any built-in furniture. Understanding what comes with the property can help you estimate additional costs for outfitting your new home.

8. What are the neighbours like?

Asking this can give you an idea of whether the area is peaceful or if there are potential nuisances (e.g., noisy neighbours, parking issues).

9. What are the local amenities and transport links?

It’s important to know about nearby shops, schools, parks, and public transport. This question helps you understand the convenience and accessibility of the area.

10. What are the average running costs (e.g., utilities, council tax)?

Understanding the running costs will help you plan your budget and avoid any surprises in terms of energy bills or council tax.

11. Are there any pending or upcoming maintenance works for shared areas (if it’s a flat)?

This applies to properties with shared ownership (like tenements or flats), as there may be repairs due for common areas, like stairwells or roofs, which you could be responsible for contributing toward.

12. Are there any plans for construction or development nearby?

New developments or construction can impact the appeal and value of the property, as well as quality of life (e.g., noise or changes in scenery).

13. Are there any issues with the title deeds or planning permissions?

It’s essential to know if there are any legal issues with the property, such as missing title deeds or disputes over boundaries. These could delay the buying process or cause future problems.

14. Is the property part of a chain?

This will help you understand if the sale of the property depends on the seller finding a new home, which could delay the process.

15. When is your preferred date of entry?

Understanding the seller's desired moving timeline is key. Some sellers may want a quick sale, while others might prefer to move out at a later date. This question helps you assess whether your own moving plans can align with theirs.

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With a wealth of local property knowledge, ESPC solicitor estate agents make the home buying and selling processes as easy as possible. If you’re looking to buy or sell a house or flat, find an ESPC solicitor agent today.