Guide to Successful Property Viewings
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. It's easy to fall in love with a beautiful kitchen or stylish décor—but remember, you're buying the property, not the furniture.
Our advice? Fall in love with the facts first.
Use this guide to help you look beyond first impressions and make a confident, informed decision.
Before You Arrive
✔ Read the property details beforehand.
✔ Make a shortlist of your must-haves and deal-breakers.
✔ Bring a tape measure if you need to check furniture sizes.
✔ Prepare any questions you'd like answered.
Look Beyond the Décor
Fresh paint, expensive furniture and clever staging can completely change how a property feels.
Instead, focus on:
Room sizes and layout
Natural light
Storage space
Ceiling height
The overall condition of the property
Remember, decorating is relatively inexpensive. Altering the structure or layout is not.
Check the Condition
Take your time and look carefully for:
Signs of damp or mould
Large cracks in walls or ceilings
The condition of windows and doors
Signs of previous repairs
Ask about:
The age of the boiler and heating system
When the electrics were last updated or inspected
The property's insulation
The age and condition of the roof (where applicable)
The property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
If you're unsure about anything, don't guess. A qualified surveyor should always inspect the property before contracts are exchanged.
Kitchen
Consider:
Storage and cupboard space
Worktop space
Water pressure
The condition of appliances
Which appliances are included in the sale
Bathrooms
Check for:
Damp or mould
Good ventilation
Water pressure
The condition of the shower or bath
Sealant around sinks and showers
Bedrooms
Ask yourself:
Will my furniture fit comfortably?
Is there enough storage?
Are there enough plug sockets?
Does the room receive enough natural light?
Outdoor Space
If the property has a garden or outside space, consider:
Which direction it faces
Privacy from neighbouring properties
General maintenance requirements
The condition of garages, sheds or outbuildings
Whether there are any obvious drainage issues
If appropriate, ask whether there have been any known issues with invasive plants, such as Japanese knotweed.
Don't Forget the Area
You're not just buying a property—you're buying the neighbourhood too.
Take a few minutes to explore the surrounding area and consider:
Noise levels
Parking arrangements
Broadband availability
Public transport links
Local shops, schools and amenities
If you're seriously considering making an offer, visit the area again during the evening or at the weekend. It can feel very different at different times of day.
Arrange a Second Viewing
If you're thinking of making an offer, a second viewing is always worthwhile.
Consider:
Viewing at a different time of day
Bringing someone you trust for a second opinion
Taking more detailed measurements
Asking any follow-up questions after reflecting on your first visit
A second viewing often provides a clearer perspective once the excitement of the first has worn off.
The Advice Most Estate Agents Won't Give You
If something doesn't feel right, don't ignore that feeling. Buying a home is exciting, but it's also one of the biggest financial commitments you'll ever make. Take your time, ask questions, and never feel pressured into making a decision before you're ready.
At Chutzpah Properties, our priority isn't completing a sale—it's helping you feel confident in the property you choose. We'll always give you honest, straightforward advice, even if that means encouraging you to ask more questions, arrange a second viewing, or take more time before making your decision.
Because we believe the best decisions are informed decisions.