Viewing property, what to ask, what to look out for?

pstones578

I'm going viewing a property, first one I've viewed. Anyone got any tips on what to look out for and questions that I should be asking?

molotov_3

Check condition of fences, position of boundaries etc, ask questions abut who lives in the property, ask about any neighbour disputes, look for any problem areas (e.g. cracks on external walls), check what the street is like e.g. parking, amount of traffic.

I'm sure there is more but that is all I can think of at the moment, hope this helps!

ads_2

I found that asking the neighbours what the area was like gave us some useful imformation.

Take a wish / check list with you and then you won't forget to ask.

The location was the main criteria for us, you can change most things but not the location.

jeetster

Nice to know what the council tax, water rates are!! As this is often a substanstial monthly cost. I'dd also have a drive around after dark to check it's not a hangout for hoodies and alike and you feel comformtable walking home from work on those dark winter nights.

Also find out why they are moving, and where they are in the chain. If they haven't even started looking for another pace and your chain is well advanced in can cause probelms.

dander

I'd say don't worry too much about the details at first. Just go in with an open mind and decide whether or not you like the place and whether it provides you with what you are looking for.

You can go back and view several times to check the details if you are keen on it.

easilyamused

We're looking at the moment and one thing we also ask is how old the boiler and electrics are.

Red_Elle

Some of these have already been suggested, but this is my check list when viewing (some are for the EA and some the vendors):

How long has the house been on the market?
Have there been any offers?
Why is it being sold?
What did the agent value the property at initially?
Has the price ever been dropped?
What exactly is included in the asking price?
When was the double glazing put in?
When was the conservatory built?
When was the house built?
Is there cavity wall insulation?
Is the loft insulated?
Is the owner responsible for the road at the front of the house?
When was the boiler last serviced?
When were the electrics last updated/look at?
Has any major work been done on the house in the last few years?
What are the local amenities like?