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10 Questions to Ask When Viewing a Property for the First Time

10 Questions to Ask When Viewing a Property for the First Time – do you do this?

New homeowners are susceptible to buying properties that come with a few unexpected and costly surprises. One expert looks at how asking the right questions can help them avoid that.

Buyers’ remorse is very common in new homeowners.

Not getting the information you need about a home you buy could lead to costly repairs and maintenance down the line.

 

Questions to Ask When Viewing a Property for the First Time

 

 

Buyers remorse

While exciting, viewing a home for the first time can be overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. Many aren’t entirely sure about what they should be looking for, and what they should be asking, about the home that they’re looking at.

In a 2022 survey of US homeowners, carried out by Hippo Insurance, 78% of those who purchased a home experienced buyer’s remorse. This can be caused by a host of issues, but buyers who don’t ask the right questions can make uninformed decisions, leading to surprises later.

To help first-time homeowners avoid any nasty surprises with their new property, Liam Cope, with Viewhomes, has outlined 10 essential questions buyers should ask to gather critical information, empowering them to make confident and well-informed choices.

 

Questions to Ask When Viewing a Property for the First Time

 

10 Questions to Ask When Viewing a Property for the First Time

  1. Why is the property being sold? Understanding the seller’s motivations can provide insight into pricing flexibility or potential issues with the property.
  2. Are there any recent renovations or repairs? This can reveal the property’s maintenance history and any hidden concerns.
  3. What are the average utility costs for this property? Helps gauge energy efficiency and anticipate monthly expenses.
  4. Is there a homeowners’ association (HOA), and what are the fees? Knowing the fees and rules can impact your decision-making.
  5. Are there any major repairs needed in the near future? This can help with planning and negotiating costs.
  6. What’s the neighborhood like during different times of the day? Noise levels, traffic, and community activity can vary.
  7. Are there any zoning restrictions or plans for nearby developments? Future developments can affect your property value and quality of life.
  8. How old are the major systems, like the roof, HVAC, or plumbing? Replacing these can be costly, so knowing their age helps plan future expenses.
  9. Are there any issues with the property that might affect insurance or financing? Some issues can increase insurance costs or make it harder to secure a mortgage.
  10. What’s included in the sale (e.g., appliances, fixtures, furniture)? Avoid surprises by confirming what stays with the home.

“Don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions. It’s better to feel confident now than face surprises after moving in,” says Cope.

 

Viewing a Property for the First Time – More Top Tips

When viewing a property for the first time…

 

Viewing a Property for the First Time

 

  1. Take a Friend or Family Member: Having a second pair of eyes can help spot things you may miss. They might also give you an honest opinion and help keep your emotions in check.
  2. Take Your Time: Don’t rush the viewing. Spend time in each room, look around every corner, and pay attention to the layout. It’s important to get a feel for the space and envision how it will work for you long-term.
  3. Check the Condition of the Property: Look for any signs of damage, like cracks in walls, damp patches, or mold. Pay attention to the plumbing, electrical systems, and heating—these can be costly to repair.
  4. Evaluate the Neighborhood: Walk around the area to get a sense of the surroundings. Consider the proximity to amenities, public transport, schools (if relevant), and how safe the neighborhood feels.
  5. Listen for Noise: Take note of any noise disturbances from nearby roads, trains, or neighbors. This could impact your comfort in the property.
  6. Consider how the property feels emotionally – this will after all  be your home and it needs to feel  like it.
  7. Check Storage Space: Assess the amount of closet space, and whether there’s enough room for your belongings. Storage is often overlooked but is crucial for daily life.
  8. Look for Natural Light: Pay attention to how much natural light each room gets and whether the space feels bright and airy. Rooms that feel dark may be less enjoyable to live in.
  9. Consider Future Resale Value: Think about how easy it will be to sell the property down the line. Factors like location, condition, and demand in the area can influence its future value.
  10. Take Photos or Notes: If you’re viewing multiple properties, it can be hard to remember details. Take some photos or jot down notes so you can compare them later.

By being mindful of these tips, you can ensure you make a well-informed decision when viewing a property!

 

Further reading on Questions to Ask When Viewing a Property

Buying your first home

First home money saving ideas

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