Don’t feel pressured by other viewers or the homeowner. This is your chance to see the property for yourself, so take the time to explore everything you can to get a feel for the place, and whether or not you want to live there. Leave time to check out the nearby streets and the local neighbourhood for a better overall impression.
Don’t be shy to go around and test out the little things – turn on taps to see how good the water pressure is, open windows to see if they have been fitted properly and generally have a good poke around. It might seem a little awkward, but the little things also matter! Test how long it might take for you to make the school run. If you can, talk to the neighbours as well.
It can be quite easy to walk into what seems like the perfect home and envision your life there. If that happens, half the battle is won but don’t let that stop you looking for the things that can turn the dream into a nightmare. This also works the other way – don’t let a few small or superficial issues put you off what could be a beautiful new home.
This is your chance to ask the questions that matter! If the current owner has nothing to hide, it shouldn’t be a problem. Bring a list if it will help you remember. Ask everything you can think of, such as why the property is available, how long it’s been on the market, what the neighbours are like and how old the roof or boiler is.
If you can, bring someone along to view the property with you. Having a second pair of eyes might spot things you have missed and can give a neutral and pragmatic perspective if needed.
How do the front and back areas look? Try to look at the roof tiles, are any missing or are things in disrepair. Check the exterior pipe and drainage situation and make sure that there aren’t any potential issues that you may have to face down the line.
If the house has signs of damp, this can cause significant problems in the future, and lower the overall value of the property. Check for flaky plaster and watermarked walls, especially around ceilings and skirting boards.
Think about all of your furniture and belongings. Does this property look like it has enough room, or will it end up being cluttered and cramped? Practical things such as hoovers and cleaning materials need to go somewhere.
One of the perks of having your own home is the scope for having friends and family over. Is there a good sized living room, dining room or kitchen space? If you’re looking forward to entertaining guests, make sure you have space for them first!
With so many things to think about, covering all of the points in one viewing might not be so easy so going back for a second look is always a good idea. There might have been something you missed, or maybe it wasn’t as good as you first thought on further reflection. Going back for a second look can either confirm your first impressions, or change them completely.
Like all mortgage brokers, we will receive a fee from the bank when the mortgage completes. However, unlike most brokers we don’t choose to charge you on top of this. Our commitment to you is that we will always be fee free.
Find out moreWe take time to compare the market to make sure you get the most suitable and most cost effective product to meet your needs. We will even have access to products your own bank cannot offer to you!
Find out moreEveryone’s circumstances are different and also every mortgage lenders criteria is different. Therefore we take the time to fully understand your circumstances to make sure that your mortgage is approved as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Find out moreIf you need to speak to us on weekends or evenings, we are available for you. We appreciate that finding time to speak on the phone can be tough therefore we will work around your schedule to ensure you can progress your application.
Find out moreWe will advise you on the best mortgage, protection and home insurance. You can also use our years of experience by speaking to our contacts, we work with a range of solicitors, surveyors and removal companies.
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Langley House Mortgages Ltd is an appointed representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading name of Advance Mortgage Funding Limited. Advance Mortgage Funding Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. No fee will be charged for our mortgage advice services, we will be paid a procuration fee from the lender. The guidance and/or information contained within the website is subject to UK regulatory regime and is therefore targeted at consumers based in the UK. Registered in England and Wales. Registered office address - 31 Kent House, Prince Street, Bristol, BS1 4PH. Registration number - 12608225.YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
