16 Revealing questions to ask when viewing a property

A home is probably the most expensive investment you’ll ever make, so it’s crucial to ask the estate agent the right questions during viewings.

Once you have the full picture, you can make an informed decision on whether it’s right for you or whether you need to continue your search.

If similar local properties listed at around the same time have sold much more quickly, something might be putting buyers off.

This could be the price—usually open to negotiation—or factors such as issues with neighbours, or perhaps a smaller-than-average garden.

The vendors’ motives for selling could indicate that they’d take a reasonable offer seriously—for example, if they’re relocating for work so have a deadline for moving, or perhaps it’s a probate sale they’re anxious to wrap up.

Or, if they want to be closer to good schools, consider whether you could find yourself moving for the same reasons in years to come.

A long chain almost inevitably leads to delays, though if you’re in no hurry this could work in your favour, as the vendors might accept an offer if they’re keen to speed things up. But if they haven’t found anywhere yet, be prepared to play the waiting game.

Check whether extras like light fittings and curtain poles are included in the asking price

Although your solicitor will ascertain exactly which fixtures and fittings you’re paying for, knowing what they are early on avoids nasty surprises further down the line.

Find out whether white goods, curtain poles and light fittings are staying, and if there’s room for negotiation on anything else you’d particularly like to keep, such as garden furniture.

This can be a deal-breaker. South and west-facing gardens are the sunniest, though you’ll be thankful for a more shaded north-facing patio on sweltering days. Think about which rooms you’ll use the most, and what time of day the sun hits them.

There are restrictions in the changes you can make to a listed property. Any upgrades need listed building consent, and you may be required to use particular materials. Rules in conservation areas aren’t as stringent, normally only affecting the exterior.

Check whether relevant planning and building regulation consents have been obtained for any extensions or other large-scale improvements. If not, in the worst-case scenario they’ll have to be taken down.

If the area has suffered flooding in the past, that could affect your building insurance

Flooding—or being in a flood risk area—is a huge red flag as it affects your chances of obtaining buildings insurance and a mortgage.

However, applications are regarded more favourably if the owner has taken remedial and preventative measures against future occurrences.

Ideally, you’re aiming for superfast broadband (at least 30mb per second), though don’t be surprised if speeds are slower in rural locations. Investigate what the mobile phone signal’s like, as you don’t want to be living in a dead zone.

Any new developments planned on your doorstep could affect views and access if roads are closed during building work.

Self-explanatory, but a new, energy-efficient boiler will be a bonus.

Turn the taps on to see if water’s coming through steadily. A slow trickle indicates low pressure and potential plumbing issues, which could be pricey to put right.

Knowing the outgoings at the outset will help you to budget. Request the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to discover its energy efficiency, which affects gas and electricity bills, and what can be done to improve it.

A history of noise complaints or parking disputes could indicate problematic neighbours

Bad neighbours make life difficult, so look into whether the vendors have had any disputes with theirs—for example, formal noise complaints or parking problems on a shared driveway.

Virtually all houses are freehold, whereas flats are either freehold (shared between the owners) or leasehold. In the latter case, find out how many years are left on the lease.

With less than 85 years remaining, it could be hard to sell later on and you’ll need to extend the lease, so the cost of this should be reflected in the price. And check whether ground rent—an annual charge to the freeholder—is payable.

Only applicable in a flat, this fee is paid by all owners for the upkeep and repairs of the building’s communal parts—including the grounds, stairways, lift and roof—and may include buildings insurance too.

It’s higher in developments with amenities, such as a gym, pool or concierge.

Read more: Buyers beware: Lies people tell to sell their homes fast

Read more: 5 First-time homebuyer mistakes you should avoid

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