House hunting is an exciting time; you are looking for a new property and ready to fall in love with your new home. But, during this period you need to think everything through and keep a level head as investing in a property is a huge commitment. House viewings are the only time you will get to meet your new home before purchasing, so follow these steps to ensure the make the most of them.
Stick To Your Budget
Working out a budget should be the first step before you even start viewing houses. Once this is set, and the mortgage have been approved by a bank, try to keep within this while searching. Viewing properties above your budget is pointless, your hopes and expectations will only be raised, and you will struggle when looking at houses in a cheaper bracket later on.
See It As A House
It’s easy to get excited and overwhelmed when you find a house you love, but try to remain calm and focused. See the property as a house and investment rather than a home. Try not to get too attached and check thoroughly for any problems or issues. Small ones may help to lower the price, but any large problems may mean you need to follow your head rather than your heart.
Look At The Structure
Check all around the house on the inside and outside and check all the walls and structures thoroughly. Though you may not be an expert, glaring issues will become apparent to you quickly. Check for cracks in the walls and missing tiles; if you find any, ask the current owners what has caused them and if they are easily fixed.
Check For Damp
Use your nose as well as your eyes for this one. Damp will give off a musty smell even if you can’t see it, and can be a major issue to repair.
Check the ceilings and windows, and question anything suspicious. This can be a big job later on, so ask the owners about anything that you find or suspect.
Look Around
Don’t be afraid to take your time during your viewing and check everywhere thoroughly. Look behind furniture and rugs to make sure nothing is being hidden, and take photos if the owners will allow it.
Confirm What Comes With The Property
Confirm with the owners what will come with the property, and ask to see where the boundaries of the land are. With new homes, visit red ink display homes and ask what will come with the house you are looking at buying. Check the ground plans and make sure you are fully aware of everything that comes with the property.
View Several Times
Try to view a house at least twice before putting down an offer. You will need to have a good feel of the area and property before you commit, so do plenty of research as well. Visit at different times as well, schools and rush hour traffic can have a huge impact on a street, especially for parking.
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