Viewings are exciting, but it’s easy to get swept up in the emotion of a beautiful kitchen or a stunning garden and miss the things that really matter. Here’s what to look for when you visit a property.
Start outside. Check the condition of the roof, guttering and exterior walls. Look for signs of damp, cracks or poorly maintained pointing. These can be expensive to repair and are worth identifying early.
Inside, pay attention to the walls and ceilings. Water stains, fresh patches of paint or wallpaper that’s bubbling can indicate damp or a leak. Run your hand along walls in corners and behind furniture — cold, slightly soft patches are a warning sign.
Check the windows. Are they double glazed? Do they open and close properly? Draughty or poorly fitting windows affect both comfort and energy efficiency.
Look at the boiler and ask when it was last serviced. Find out how old the heating system is and whether there’s a recent gas safety certificate.
Consider the natural light at different times of day and think about which direction the garden faces. A north-facing garden will receive limited direct sunlight, which may matter to you depending on how you plan to use the space.
Finally, try to visit more than once and at different times of day. A quiet street at 10am on a Tuesday may feel very different at 6pm on a Friday. Talk to neighbours if you can, and trust your instincts — they’re usually right.
