Questions to ask when viewing a house

Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifteenth, asking the right questions remains one of the most important things you can do to prevent a disaster. We’ve all heard the horror stories of buying a house only to find a litany of issues that weren’t spotted in the pre-purchase valuation– and no one wants to find themselves in that position. The good news is, that if you know the best questions to ask when viewing a house, you’ll be taking a belt and braces approach that helps you identify potential issues early. We also always recommend that you retain a qualified surveyor to carry out a survey on the property. 

With over 80 years in the industry, Readings Property Group know all the right questions and things to look for when buying a house. Below, you’ll find our house viewing checklist, based on our extensive real estate experience. 

Checklist of Questions to Ask at a House Viewing

When viewing a property, it’s easy to focus on how it looks on the surface. But behind freshly painted walls or stylish staging, there could be issues that aren’t immediately visible. Here, we share some of the top questions to ask at a house viewing. Some of these you’ll be able to find answers to yourself during the viewing, while others you may need to ask the Estate Agent. By knowing what to look for and what to ask, you’ll feel more confident about making an informed decision. 

Condition of the Property

• Are there any signs of damp or structural issues?
  Damp patches, cracks in the walls or uneven floors could be small issues, or they could signify something more serious. Look for signs of damage during your viewing and don’t be afraid to ask for more information. 

• Have any repairs or renovations been completed recently?
  This question will help you identify areas of the home that the owner has remedied prior to sale. It may indicate that there could be future issues, or give you reassurance that issues have been dealt with. 

• Is the wiring up to date?
  Rewiring a home is a costly task, so it’s worth establishing when the wiring was last checked and how much life it has left in it. 

Energy Efficiency

• What is the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating?
  An EPC rating measures the property’s energy efficiency. A higher rating means the house is more energy efficient, so you can expect lower energy bills. A low EPC rating may mean it costs more to heat. 

• What kind of insulation does the property have?
  Good quality insulation in the walls, roof and underfloor helps prevent heat from escaping, which in turn will reduce your energy costs. If the home isn’t well insulated, it may be worth checking eligibility for insulation funding. 

• Does the house have any energy-saving features?
  Double-glazing, energy-efficient appliances (which are included in the chattels) and solar panels can all make a big difference to your long-term running costs.  

Water and Heating

• How old is the boiler and when was it last serviced?
  Boilers generally have to be serviced in order to sell a property, but it’s worth knowing how old the boiler is and what condition it’s in. If it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, replacing it could become a large, unexpected expense.  

• Are the radiators and plumbing in good condition?
  Look for rust and leaks when viewing the house. If the central heating is on, check the radiators for inconsistent heating. Any issues with the plumbing should be factored into your offer.  

General Questions

• Why is the owner selling?
  Understanding the seller’s motivation for sale can give you an idea of reasons you may eventually choose to move too. Are they downsizing, relocating or moving due to an issue with the house, neighbours or area? The estate agent will have this information and must disclose it.  

• How long has the property been on the market?
  If the property has been on the market for a long time, it will usually be because it’s either overpriced or there are underlying issues. You may want to ask if other offers have been made and why they fell through. The estate agent may not be able to give you specifics due to privacy, but their answer may shine a light on areas of concern. 

• What is the local area like?
  Ask about transport links, amenities and crime in the area. It can also be helpful to visit the neighbourhood at different times of day to get a feel for the atmosphere.  

• What are the neighbours like?
  Good neighbours are worth their weight in gold. If you’re considering making an offer, you may want to go and introduce yourself to the neighbours and ask questions about living in the area.  

• What are the parking arrangements?
  If there isn’t a dedicated driveway, make sure to ask about permits or on-street parking. With many homes owning at least two cars, “first come, first served” parking can be an annoyance.  

• Is the property listed?
  A listed property comes with restrictions on changes to the property’s appearance or structure. Make sure you’re aware of any covenants before buying, which your solicitor will check for you during the purchase process.  

Remember, estate agents are legally obligated to disclose “fair” information to home buyers. That means not deliberately misleading or withholding information from buyers. Don’t be afraid to ask the hard questions – after all, it’s one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. 

Book a viewing or browse our homes for sale

Looking to buy in Leicestershire? Get in touch with Readings. Helping homebuyers and sellers find their dream property since 1935, we can support and guide you through the process. Contact us today for an obligation-free chat, or browse our properties for sale in Leicestershire and get in touch to book a viewing.