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House Viewing Essential Tips for Buyers

Uncovering the Real Value of a Property

Overview

The process of buying a home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many properties on the market, how do you make sure you’re finding the best one for your needs? That’s where house viewing comes in. A successful house viewing helps you look beyond first impressions and uncover the real value of a property. For buyers, it’s important to know what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to make the most of your time when viewing potential homes.

In this guide, we’ll explore essential house viewing tips for buyers that will help you navigate this critical stage of the home-buying process with confidence.

House Viewing Essential Tips for Buyers
Photo by Francesca Tosolini
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Table of Contents

  1. Do Your Research Before the Viewing

Before attending any house viewing, it’s important to do your homework. Start by researching the property online to gather basic information such as the asking price, square footage, and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms.

Most if not all properties will be listed on the MLS and websites like Zillow or Trulia. Here is a great list of the 7 best real estate websites.

Review the listing photos and read any descriptions to get a feel for the home’s key features.

You should also look into the neighborhood. Check out local amenities, school districts, crime rates, and nearby public transportation options. Having this background knowledge will help you evaluate whether the property fits your lifestyle needs before you even step through the door.

Many listings will have virtual tours which will help you filter out homes that don’t interest you.

If you are a seller then check out this article on 10 Important Tips For Home Viewing.

  1. Make a Checklist of Must-Have Features

Before you attend a house viewing, create a checklist of the key features you want in your new home. This could include the number of bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, a backyard, or proximity to schools. Having a clear list of non-negotiables will keep you focused during the viewing and prevent you from getting distracted by unnecessary features like decorative staging or temporary fixtures.

Some buyers get swept away by attractive decor, but remember that things like furniture and artwork won’t come with the home. Stick to your checklist and evaluate whether the property offers the fundamentals you need.

  1. Inspect the Exterior and Property Frontage Appeal

Curb appeal can make or break a home’s first impression, but it’s about more than just looks. During a house viewing, pay attention to the exterior of the home, as this is often a good indicator of the property’s overall condition.

  • Check for any visible cracks in the foundation or siding.
  • Look at the condition of the roof—are there missing or damaged shingles?
  • Inspect the gutters to ensure they’re not clogged or damaged.
  • Examine the driveway and walkways for cracks or uneven surfaces.

A well-maintained exterior can mean fewer repair costs for you in the future, so don’t overlook this crucial aspect of house viewing.

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  1. Evaluate the Layout and Space

As you walk through the home, think critically about the layout. Does it suit your lifestyle? A beautiful home with an awkward floor plan might not be as functional as it seems. Consider the flow of the space—does the layout make sense, or does it feel disjointed?

Pay attention to the size of each room. Sometimes, wide-angle listing photos can make rooms look larger than they really are, so take your time to walk through and envision how you would use each space. Think about furniture placement, storage options, and whether the rooms meet your current and future needs.

If you like the listing you might want to ask for a virtual tour of the property. You are bound to forget or overlook some parts of the house. The virtual tour will help you do some 3D touring of the house from the comfort of your home without the need to visit it again to check some things.

  1. Check for Structural Issues

During a house viewing, it’s essential to keep an eye out for any signs of structural issues. While some problems can be easily fixed, others may require costly repairs. Here are some key red flags to look out for:

  • Cracks in walls or ceilings – These can be a sign of foundation issues or settling.
  • Sagging floors – If the floor feels uneven or dips in certain areas, this could indicate structural problems.
  • Sticking doors or windows – If doors or windows don’t open and close smoothly, it might point to shifting in the structure.

If you notice any of these signs, consider hiring a professional inspector to assess the extent of the problem.

  1. Pay Attention to Lighting and Ventilation

Natural light and proper ventilation are often overlooked during house viewings, but they can significantly impact your day-to-day comfort. Take note of the direction the home faces and how much sunlight each room gets throughout the day. South-facing windows tend to get the most light, while north-facing ones might feel darker.

Good ventilation is equally important. Check that windows open easily and allow for adequate airflow. Poor ventilation can lead to dampness, mold growth, and a generally uncomfortable living environment.

  1. Inspect the Kitchen and Bathrooms Closely

Kitchens and bathrooms are among the most expensive rooms to renovate, so it’s important to inspect them carefully during your house viewing. Look for signs of water damage around sinks, toilets, and showers. Discolored grout, peeling paint, or mold can be indicators of leaks or humidity issues.

In the kitchen, examine the condition of the cabinets, countertops, and appliances. Even if the appliances won’t be included in the sale, their condition can give you an idea of how well the home has been maintained.

  1. Ask About Utility Systems and Appliances

It’s easy to get caught up in the aesthetics of a home, but don’t forget to ask about the utility systems. During your house viewing, inquire about the age and condition of the heating, cooling, and electrical systems. You should also ask about the water heater and plumbing. These systems can be costly to replace, so it’s important to know if any major updates are needed.

Ask the seller or agent when the appliances were last serviced or replaced. While you might love the look of the home, hidden maintenance costs can quickly add up if these systems are outdated or in need of repair.

  1. Consider the Neighborhood and Surrounding Area

When buying a home, you’re not just investing in a property—you’re also investing in the neighborhood. During a house viewing, take a few minutes to explore the area. Walk or drive around to get a feel for the community. Is it quiet, safe, and well-maintained? Are there parks, shops, or schools nearby?

Also, consider the future of the neighborhood. Is there ongoing construction, or are there plans for new developments? While these can sometimes increase property values, they can also lead to noise and disruptions in the short term. Understanding the local area will help you make an informed decision about whether the home fits your long-term lifestyle goals.

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  1. Follow Up and Plan for a Second Viewing

Once the house viewing is complete, take time to reflect on your impressions. If the home meets your requirements, consider scheduling a second viewing. This will allow you to see the property in a different light (literally—try to visit at a different time of day) and give you the chance to review any areas you may have missed the first time around.

If you have any concerns or unanswered questions from the initial viewing, make sure to address them before moving forward. It’s better to take your time and feel confident in your decision than to rush into a purchase you might regret later.

Conclusion

House viewing is a critical step in the home-buying journey. By preparing ahead of time, knowing what to look for, and asking the right questions, you can make the most of every viewing and move closer to finding your dream home. From evaluating the layout to inspecting the utilities and surrounding neighborhood, these essential tips will help you make an informed decision during the house viewing process.

Are you looking for ways to streamline your house viewing experience? With the rise of 360-degree virtual tours, buyers can now view homes from the comfort of their own homes. Visit threesixty.tours to learn how virtual tours can enhance your house-hunting process!

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