It's easy to lose sight of what's important when you head out on property viewings. A stunning fireplace here, a show-stopping wet room there, and you've suddenly forgotten everything you were meant to ask the estate agent.
That's where our handy property viewing checklist can help.
We'll help you remember everything you need to check, from the double glazing to the heating system to what the neighbours are like.
Plus, it'll help you weigh up the pros and cons once you've viewed a few places and they're all blurring into one.
Our handy downloadable version can be useful to print off and take with you.
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First, check out the exterior
What year was the property built?
Is the brickwork, render or finish in good nick?
Are there any damaged or loose roof tiles?
Is the chimney working? What condition is it in?
How do the fascias look? (These are the wooden bands under the edge of the roof)
Are the drains and gutters blocked or leaking?
Are the windows single, double or triple glazed?
Are there any large trees close to the building that could cause a hazard?
Next, take a good look inside
What condition are the window frames in?
Are there any signs of damp, mould, condensation or woodworm?
Any major cracks in walls or ceilings?
How's the flooring looking?
Is the decor in good condition?
Is there much built-in storage space?
What's the type, age and condition of the boiler?
How old are the electrics, plumbing and heating systems?
Any exposed wires?
Are the light switches all working?
How many power sockets are in each room and are they in handy places?
Is the loft insulated and accessible?
Is the basement in use and accesible?
Are the fireplaces decorative or in working order?
Are the curtains and blinds all in working order?
How much privacy do you have from the street and garden?
Take a good look at the Kitchen
What's the general condition of the units and worktops?
Is there space for a dining table and chairs? If not, is there a dining room?
What's the water pressure from the taps like?
Are the oven and hob powered by gas or electric?
Are there fitted white goods included? What condition are the white goods in? (This is things like the dishwasher, washing machine and tumble drier)
If they're not included, do you have enough space to bring or buy your own white goods?
What size fridge and freezer can you fit?
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Inspect every inch of the bathroom(s)
Are there any signs of damp or mould?
What's the condition of sealant and grouting?
What's the water pressure from the taps like?
How long do you need to wait for hot water to come through?
What type of shower is fitted?
Is there an extractor fan?
Is there a shaver socket?
Does the toilet flush?
Check out the bedroom(s)
How much space is there for a bed?
How many power sockets are there and are they in handy spots?
Is there a built-in wardrobe or enough space for a standalone one?
Ask the estate agent about these things
Will any fixtures or fittings be left behind by the current owners?
What condition is the insulation in the loft and walls?
Is the burglar alarm working?
Are the smoke detectors working?
Are there locks and keys for all windows and doors?
What is the current cost of utility bills and which providers do the owners currently use?
Is there potential to extend or convert the loft?
Are there any existing planning permissions?
Can you share the builders or architect details for any recent works to show quality and any warranties?
What are the neighbours like?
Is there any flood risk or history of flooding?
Where are the stopcock and fuse box located?
What internet speeds and suppliers are available?
Are there any mobile phone dead spots?
Snoop around the garden and parking situation
What is the aspect of the front and rear gardens (south-facing will get more sun)
Is the garden overlooked?
Is there a garage, shed or any other outbuildings?
Is there a driveway or off-street parking? Do you need a street parking permit? How easy is it to park on the road?
Are there any signs of Japanese knotweed?
Find out about the area
Where are the nearest bus stops and train stations? How long does it take to reach popular places?
What are the local school catchment areas?
When are streetlights switched on?
How close are parks and leisure centres?
Where are the nearest corner shops or supermarkets?
Are there any restaurants and pubs within walking distance?
What is local traffic like? Are there any cut-throughs?
What have similar homes sold for in the area?
Viewing a flat: extra things to check
Is the flat leasehold or a share of freehold?
What is the name of the freeholder and managing agent?
How many years are remaining on the lease?
Are there any stand-out covenants within the lease?
What is the annual service charge?
What is the annual ground rent?
What does the contract say about increasing these charges? When will the next increase be and by how much?
What is the condition of communal spaces?
How many flats are in the building
Are the other residents homeowners or renters?
What are the neighbours like above, below and opposite?
Download a copy of our viewing checklist
Simply download the checklist, print out a bunch of copies, grab a pen and you're ready for your next house viewings.
Why not use the 'notes' box to record your feelings on each home? After all, your decision to make an offer will be based on your heart as much as your head...
Download our property viewing checklist here.
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