Things to look for when viewing a house
Viewing a property is one of the most exciting stages of purchasing a house, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of what to look for.
Whether you're buying your first home or considering a new build in a popular area, it’s important to know what questions to ask to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Our handy house viewing checklist will make your viewing experience straightforward, fun and most importantly, stress-free, so you can focus on finding a home that feels just right for you, no matter your situation.
House viewing checklist: what to look for first
When you’re viewing a home, there’s more to think about than just how it looks on the inside. Here are some things to consider before you head out on your viewing:
Amenities
Take a moment to think about the area. Are there shops, cafes and transport links nearby that’ll make life a bit easier? The majority of our Persimmon developments are planned with your lifestyle in mind, in locations with easy access to amenities.
Community
Getting a feel for the neighbourhood can be just as important as the home itself. If you can, chat with locals to find out what the area is really like.
Look and feel
First impressions count! Take a walk around the neighbourhood and see if the design of the homes and overall vibe is something you like. It’s all about how it makes you feel.
Family-friendly connections
If you’re moving with children or planning for the future, think about the schools and activities nearby. Does the area offer what you need to keep up with busy family life?
Things to consider when viewing a new build home
Buying a new build home means you can enjoy a fresh start without the worries that come with an older property. This is particularly good for first time buyers. With everything brand new and built to the latest standards, there’s far less to check compared to a second-hand home. You’ll have more time to think about how the home would work for you.
Here’s what to focus on when viewing a new build:
- Does the home offer the right number of bedrooms and living space for your needs?
- Is the layout practical for your lifestyle, with an open-plan design or separate rooms where needed?
- Does the property have a garden or balcony that suits your lifestyle?
- Is there adequate parking, either on a driveway or designated space?
- Are there good transport links and essential amenities nearby?
House viewing checklist for a second hand home
In comparison, the checklist when viewing a house is much more comprehensive when it's second hand. You'll need to consider lots of things before you buy the property,
Inside the house
When you head inside, it’s good to look out for anything that could need fixing such as signs of damp – no one wants any nasty surprises. There’s lots to think about, but start here:
- Are there any damp spots or mould, especially in the bathroom or along exterior walls?
- Are the electrics in good shape with no exposed wires?
- Are there any cracks in the walls that shouldn’t be there?
- Is the loft insulated?
- How old is the heating system and boiler?
- Are there enough power outlets in each room?
- Does the decor need a lot of costly work?
Exterior details
The outside of the house is just as important as the inside. Go prepared, with these questions in mind:
- Are there any signs of damage to the roof, drains, or gutters?
- Are the windows double-glazed?
- Is the exterior in good condition, including the brickwork?
- Is the garden and landscaping in good condition or does it need an overhaul?
- Are the facias in good condition?
Take a deeper look at these rooms
Certain areas of the house need a bit more attention, like the kitchen and bathroom. These are high-use areas where problems often surface, so take your time when you think about:
- Is the kitchen in good shape, and are the appliances up to date?
- Is the oven gas or electric, and are the white goods included?
- Does the kitchen have enough space for everything you need?
- Is the bathroom in good condition, including the sealant and grout?
- Is the water pressure good?
- Does the bathroom have an extractor fan?
It might seem like a lot, but don’t feel rushed.
Knowing the questions to ask when viewing a house will make your life easier in the long run, so you don’t encounter anything you weren’t ready for in the early stages of home buying.
Buying second-hand vs buying a new home
Buying a second-hand home can bring unexpected surprises, even with a checklist. Older properties may have hidden issues you won’t spot straight away.
A modern new build gives you more control, with no nasty surprises on completion day, making the process much smoother.
Plus, you're less likely to have difficulty with mortgage offers when buying new, as lenders may be hesitant if it's an older property with certain issues.
With Persimmon’s Finishing Touches, you can make it yours before you move in by choosing from a variety of styles and finishes.
10-year peace of mind
Unlike buying second-hand, a new build Persimmon Home comes with a 10-year insurance-backed warranty, so you can feel confident in your purchase. If anything unexpected comes up, you’ve got support long after you’ve moved in. We have faith in our homes and so should you.
We hope our house viewing checklist and useful advice help you find the perfect home, no matter where your viewing journey takes you. This process is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter, so don’t forget to enjoy it every step of the way.
