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How to Prepare for a Property Viewing in Leeds

2024-12-16

Preparing to view a property 


When it comes to viewing a property, it’s vital to look beyond the obvious and ask key questions. Whether you’re searching for student accommodation, flats for rent or houses for rent in Leeds, preparation is essential to ensure you make the right decision. Consider factors like triple-glazed windows, water pressure, parking availability, or garden size. Knowing the ins and outs of the property will help you feel more confident about making an offer.



What should I check when viewing a property?


Inside the rooms

  • Are the light switches working?

  • What is the decor like, both style and condition.

  • Is the flooring in good condition?

  • Is there a nice amount of natural light?

  • Are there any signs of damp/mould/condensation? 

  • Are there any exposed wires?

  • Are there any cracks big enough to put the edge of a 10p in?

  • How many power sockets are there and are they conveniently placed?

  • Is there much storage?

  • If there are any fireplaces, are they functional?

  • What does the property overlook?


Windows & Doors

  • Do they open and close okay?

  • Are the windows single, double or triple glazed?

  • Are the frames in good condition?

  • Do all the locks work and have keys?


Bathroom/Plumbing

  • Do the taps work?

  • How long does it take for hot water to run?

  • Is the water pressure in the shower strong?

  • Is there a bath?

  • Is there a shaver socket?

  • Is there a window? If not, does the extractor fan work?


Garden

  • How much maintenance is required?

  • How much is it overlooked?

  • Are there any tree roots which will cause structural problems?

  • Is there a shed or garage?


Exterior

  • What is the general condition and age?

  • Are there any cracks?

  • If the wall is rendered, what is the condition?


Roof

  • Are there any missing or cracked tiles?

  • Are the chimneys straight?

  • Are the drains clean and moving the water correctly?

  • How old is the current roof? Will it need replacing or does it dip at any points?


General

  • What is the heating system? Is it electric or gas?

  • Are the burglar and fire alarms working?

  • What are the broadband and mobile coverage options?

  • How old is the fuse box and when was it last checked?

  • What council tax band is it in?



Tips for viewing a property


  1. Take your time: Make sure you spend a good amount of time viewing a house so you can get a good feel for the place.

  2. Look at the structure of the building: Walk around the house to check for damp, cracks, loose roof tiles or broken gutters. Ask about any issues you see. And if you do make an offer, get an independent survey for a detailed inspection. 

  3. Look & smell carefully: Sellers can sometimes hide issues such as damp or cracks. Look closely at suspiciously placed furniture and remember that musty smells or excessive air fresheners can signal hidden issues.

  4. View the property more than once: It is always best to go and visit a property another time as you will be more likely to spot potential problems. We would recommend you visit the property at different times of the day to see traffic and surrounding noise change.

  5. Confirm what is included with the property: If you’re unsure who owns a garden or parking space, make sure you find out and get it in writing before you agree to anything.

  6. Bring someone with you: It is better to bring someone along with you as they can be a second pair of eyes and give you their thoughts on the property. 

  7. Have a professional survey done: A mortgage lender's valuation survey only confirms the property's value and doesn’t assess its condition. To uncover hidden issues, arrange your own independent house survey. 

  8. Take plenty of photos and videos: Ask if you can take photos or videos during the viewing, this will help you remember all the details and help provide a more accurate reflection on the property. 

  9. Investigate the neighbourhood: If you’re seriously considering a property, ask the estate agent key questions. Find out why the property is being sold, how long it’s been on the market, and if there have been any offers. Estate agents are legally required to disclose any serious issues they’re aware of, so don’t hesitate to inquire.


Conclusion

Preparing for a property viewing in Leeds requires attention to detail and careful evaluation. By checking key features like windows, plumbing, storage, and structural integrity, you can avoid potential pitfalls and make an informed decision. Take your time during viewings, inspect the property thoroughly, and revisit at different times of the day. Don’t forget to ask questions, investigate the neighbourhood, and document your findings with photos and videos. Bringing a trusted companion and arranging a professional survey can also provide valuable insights. With thorough preparation, you’ll feel confident in finding the right property for your needs.


How to Prepare for a Property Viewing in Leeds

2024-12-16 / Published by Rentinc

Trip Image

Preparing to view a property 


When it comes to viewing a property, it’s vital to look beyond the obvious and ask key questions. Whether you’re searching for student accommodation, flats for rent or houses for rent in Leeds, preparation is essential to ensure you make the right decision. Consider factors like triple-glazed windows, water pressure, parking availability, or garden size. Knowing the ins and outs of the property will help you feel more confident about making an offer.



What should I check when viewing a property?


Inside the rooms

  • Are the light switches working?

  • What is the decor like, both style and condition.

  • Is the flooring in good condition?

  • Is there a nice amount of natural light?

  • Are there any signs of damp/mould/condensation? 

  • Are there any exposed wires?

  • Are there any cracks big enough to put the edge of a 10p in?

  • How many power sockets are there and are they conveniently placed?

  • Is there much storage?

  • If there are any fireplaces, are they functional?

  • What does the property overlook?


Windows & Doors

  • Do they open and close okay?

  • Are the windows single, double or triple glazed?

  • Are the frames in good condition?

  • Do all the locks work and have keys?


Bathroom/Plumbing

  • Do the taps work?

  • How long does it take for hot water to run?

  • Is the water pressure in the shower strong?

  • Is there a bath?

  • Is there a shaver socket?

  • Is there a window? If not, does the extractor fan work?


Garden

  • How much maintenance is required?

  • How much is it overlooked?

  • Are there any tree roots which will cause structural problems?

  • Is there a shed or garage?


Exterior

  • What is the general condition and age?

  • Are there any cracks?

  • If the wall is rendered, what is the condition?


Roof

  • Are there any missing or cracked tiles?

  • Are the chimneys straight?

  • Are the drains clean and moving the water correctly?

  • How old is the current roof? Will it need replacing or does it dip at any points?


General

  • What is the heating system? Is it electric or gas?

  • Are the burglar and fire alarms working?

  • What are the broadband and mobile coverage options?

  • How old is the fuse box and when was it last checked?

  • What council tax band is it in?



Tips for viewing a property


  1. Take your time: Make sure you spend a good amount of time viewing a house so you can get a good feel for the place.

  2. Look at the structure of the building: Walk around the house to check for damp, cracks, loose roof tiles or broken gutters. Ask about any issues you see. And if you do make an offer, get an independent survey for a detailed inspection. 

  3. Look & smell carefully: Sellers can sometimes hide issues such as damp or cracks. Look closely at suspiciously placed furniture and remember that musty smells or excessive air fresheners can signal hidden issues.

  4. View the property more than once: It is always best to go and visit a property another time as you will be more likely to spot potential problems. We would recommend you visit the property at different times of the day to see traffic and surrounding noise change.

  5. Confirm what is included with the property: If you’re unsure who owns a garden or parking space, make sure you find out and get it in writing before you agree to anything.

  6. Bring someone with you: It is better to bring someone along with you as they can be a second pair of eyes and give you their thoughts on the property. 

  7. Have a professional survey done: A mortgage lender's valuation survey only confirms the property's value and doesn’t assess its condition. To uncover hidden issues, arrange your own independent house survey. 

  8. Take plenty of photos and videos: Ask if you can take photos or videos during the viewing, this will help you remember all the details and help provide a more accurate reflection on the property. 

  9. Investigate the neighbourhood: If you’re seriously considering a property, ask the estate agent key questions. Find out why the property is being sold, how long it’s been on the market, and if there have been any offers. Estate agents are legally required to disclose any serious issues they’re aware of, so don’t hesitate to inquire.


Conclusion

Preparing for a property viewing in Leeds requires attention to detail and careful evaluation. By checking key features like windows, plumbing, storage, and structural integrity, you can avoid potential pitfalls and make an informed decision. Take your time during viewings, inspect the property thoroughly, and revisit at different times of the day. Don’t forget to ask questions, investigate the neighbourhood, and document your findings with photos and videos. Bringing a trusted companion and arranging a professional survey can also provide valuable insights. With thorough preparation, you’ll feel confident in finding the right property for your needs.


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