Whether you’re a seasoned pro, or this is your first time entering the property market, property viewings can seem daunting and unpredictable, but they don’t have to be!
A house viewing is one of the most important make or break aspects of your decision, so we’ve created a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know, expect and prepare for a property viewing whether you’re a buyer, seller, contract-holder or landlord.
How can I prepare as a prospective buyer or contract-holder?
- Make a list of your must-haves in a property eg a driveway, rear garden, natural light, fitted kitchen etc, to identify which properties you would like to view.
- Look at all the information that is available to you ahead of the viewing. Browse leaflets, website listings and virtual tours so you can familiarise yourself with the property and notice the finer details in person.
- Visit the local neighbourhood. You don’t need to stay restricted to your property viewing time to do this. Why not pencil in some time ahead or after the viewing to scout out the local area, amenities, traffic flow and more.
- If the property is not empty, remember to be considerate and respectful that the property is someone’s home.
- On a second viewing and on the brink of making an offer? Bring a measuring tape if you have any specific furniture to fit in the property to confirm if the house or flat is the perfect fit for you!
- Keep in contact with us ahead of the booking to confirm you are still attending.
What do I need to look out for on the day of the viewing?
- Check the walls for any cracks, any stains on carpets or floorboards, and cracks or leaks in the gutters. Some may be quick fixes when you move in but others may need to be completed before you sign on the dotted line of your purchase or contract.
- Make sure everything works! Open and close windows, test lights and plugs, turn taps off and on. You’ll be able to discover any issues before you take the leap.
- If you have a car, understand where you can park. Is there a driveway or garage space? Will you need a permit for street parking?
- Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions! This is your opportunity to find out as much as you can. Key questions you could ask include whether the property comes furnished, if there are locks and keys for all the windows and doors and if gas and electrical checks have been carried out recently.
How can I be prepared as a seller or landlord?
- Ensure your property is spotless to present it in the best light. Remove any clutter, give the skirting boards an extra clean and make it a place your viewers can see themselves living in.
- When sprucing up your property, don’t forget about the kerb appeal. Whether it’s a quick mow of the lawn or moving the bins from the drive, make sure your property is presentable and inviting from the very first look.
- As most viewings take place when you are not there, it’s a good idea to keep any valuables out of sight and safely put away.
- Whether your property is empty or still lived in, accentuate your home’s highlights. Open the curtains to let in natural light, make your living areas cosy and inviting, and arrange your furniture to maximise the floor space.
- Be open to feedback. We will give you a detailed debrief after each viewing, and some viewers may have feedback for things you can easily change, enabling you to showcase your property in the best way possible for the next viewing.
Viewings with Thomas H Wood:
We pride ourselves on our easy, seamless service when it comes to securing your deal. Our team of experts know exactly what to do and will arrange viewings that fit around you.
For sellers and landlords, we’ll provide instant, honest feedback after every viewing, indicating the likelihood of offers being put forward, or providing helpful practical advice to support future viewings and get a faster sale.
We also know the area better than anyone and can helpfully advise you or your prospective buyers or tenants on why Cardiff is the best fit. Contact us on 029 2062 6252 or visit our helpful team in branch.