What to look for when viewing a property

From asking the right questions to figuring out the small details you need to keep an eye on, here’s our guide to viewing a property:

• How long should a viewing take?
• What direction does the property face?
• What are your senses telling you?
• Are you focusing on the furnishings?
• Do the room sizes meet your needs?
• Is there suitable storage?
• What is the local area like?

If you’ve only just begun searching for a brand-new home, you might benefit from our handy home-buying guide .

How long should a viewing take?

Buying a property is a major purchase. Sometimes , however, people can feel rushed through the experience – whether that’s because you’re in somebody else’s home or because you’re a first-time buyer in a hurry to snap up an affordable property. It’s essential that you feel confident about your purchase, so remember to take your time.

It’s not uncommon to arrange a second (or even third) property viewing, giving you multiple opportunities to spot anything you’d like to query through your conveyancer. Try to return at different times to get a feel for both the area and the home at day and night.

One advantage of buying a brand-new David Wilson home is that our sales team are usually based on the development. This means they can show you around potential properties at your pace and can accommodate multiple visits at times that suit you. Discover our range of spacious new properties here .

What direction does it face?

When viewing a house, check what direction it faces – a vital aspect that dictates how much natural light each room might get throughout the day.

South-facing homes enjoy lots of direct sunlight in the warmer months, while the garden of a north-facing home could be shady – even in the height of summer. If a property is oriented east-west, consider which rooms will benefit from natural light in the morning versus the afternoon.

What are your senses telling you?

When viewing an existing property, pay close attention to all your senses to spot any potential problems. Don’t be afraid to check thoroughly for:

• Drafts around window frames
• Excessive noise from roads or neighbouring properties
• Hairline cracks on interior/exterior walls
• Roof damage and missing tiles
• Blocked drains or guttering
• The smell of damp, blistered paint, peeling wallpaper, or dark patches on walls

Be prepared to move furniture and pictures, and to look inside cupboards and storage spaces to see the property in its entirety. Turn on taps, flush toilets, open and close windows, test light switches – you need to know what you might be buying.

These sorts of issues are significantly less likely with a brand-new home – no fewer than three specialist teams inspect and quality approve each home we build. However, if any problems were to arise, we have a team on hand to assist you. David Wilson homes are also covered by a NHBC Buildmark warranty and insurance policy for added peace of mind.

Are you focusing on the furnishing?

When viewing a house, one question you should ask yourself is whether it’s the building that you’re impressed with or the way it’s decorated. Sellers go to great lengths to make their home look its best, so it’s important to remain objective during your viewings.

Inviting aromas like fresh coffee and vanilla can make a house feel more welcoming, while well-placed mirrors can make a room feel larger and brighter, as can lighting choices.

However, with spacious multipurpose rooms and elegant architectural features, a thoughtfully designed David Wilson home let’s life flow freely throughout.

Do the room sizes meet your needs?

When viewing a furnished property or show home, don’t assume that, just because there’s furniture in each room, your own belongings will fit the same spaces.

Take a tape measure along to any viewings to note down the dimensions of spaces that aren’t listed on floor plans, and of any items of furniture you like the look of. Try to picture your own belongings in each room to get a feel for the space, and don’t be afraid to ask what the seller plans to leave behind.

Is there suitable storage?

It’s also a good idea to consider what kind of storage space is available so you know whether or not you can actually fit your household into a potential home.

Don’t be fooled by crafty tricks – for example, sellers of older properties may remove items of furniture to make a space appear larger than it is.

Remember, brand-new David Wilson homes are designed with modern family life in mind, so each one will feature generous storage spaces for clutter-free living.

What is the local area like?

Something vital to check when viewing a house is the surrounding area – no property is perfect if it doesn’t have the amenities that you’re looking for nearby. Before or after your viewing, take a walk and look out for the following:

• Are there shops nearby or will you need to drive?
• How good are the public transport options?
•  Are you close to busy main roads and train lines?
• Is local nightlife likely to disturb you?
• Could local schools interfere with your commute?
• Does the area have natural spaces and leisure facilities?

Each buyer will have different considerations, so do your homework to make sure you’ll feel at home in and around the property you’re buying.

What questions should you ask when you’re viewing a house?

Each property viewing is an opportunity to not only see the house for yourself, but also to learn as much information as you can about the home you might buy. Make a note of any questions you want to ask during your viewing, such as:

• How long has it been on the market?
• How much are typical utility bills and council tax?
• What is the Energy Performance Certificate?
• How old is the wiring and central heating?
• When were the appliances replaced?
• Are there any service or management fees?
• Has any work been done on the property?
• What items are included in the sale?

However, if you’re viewing a brand-new home, many of these questions will have straightforward answers. Begin your search for an energy-efficient David Wilson home today.

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