Viewing a house

dreambirdie

Hello just looking a bit of advice regarding viewing a house

the estate agents are meeting me tomorrow to show me round a private rental property. this will be first time moving out of home for me so ive never viewed a house etc before.

i was looking some advice on questions to ask etc as i really do not have a clue! are there any specifics i should be looking out for?

miltonskeen

take someone with you and view at least 5

Linton

Make a note beforehand on what are the key features you are looking for and make sure you check them during the viewing.

Jowo_2

A lot of tenants on this forum complain about poor or expensive heating and drafty properties. Check what type of heating is in the property (gas central heating is the most popular, electric heating is considered expensive and storage heating considered expensive and least efficient) and if it has double glazed windows.

Also, have you checked the full fees payable to the agent, including the cost of renewing the agreement? Never set up a viewing until you understand what admin fees you will be charged.

Here are some questions that Shelter advise you ask about the tenancy (rather than the property).

http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice/finding_a_place_to_live/renting_privately/letting_agencies#2

Here are some things to check in the property

http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice/finding_a_place_to_live/renting_privately/finding_a_place_to_rent#3

dreambirdie

cheers for the links jowo

poppysarah

Look at the EPC and see if it says how much it costs to heat

mchale

take photos so you can compare with other properties you view, whats area like, go back at different times to view outside/neighbours,

MrGreenNewForest

Maybe worth also finding out who the property owner is and doing some research. There have been a few horror stories of tentants losing their homes due to the lanlord defaulting on the mortgage leading to repossession - just a thought