With spring in full swing and interest rates finally starting to ease, now is a great time to take those first (or next) steps on the property ladder. The recent drop in the base rate is welcome news for buyers, helping to improve mortgage affordability just as more homes start coming onto the market.
Whether you're looking for a fresh start, upsizing for a growing family, or searching for a forever home, property viewings are a crucial part of the journey. At JW Wood, we're here to help you make the most of each visit with friendly, practical advice. From spotting red flags to imagining your future life in a space, we'll guide you through what to look out for this season—so you can view with clarity and confidence.
Before You Step Through the Door: Do Your Homework
- Use property listings (on Rightmove or our own site) to your advantage—look at the photos, floorplans, virtual tours and local information before viewing in person.
- Make a note of any questions you might want to ask, especially about unusual layouts or features.
- If the property is a flat, check whether it's leasehold or freehold and what service charges or ground rents apply.
During the Viewing: What to Look For
1. First Impressions Count—But Look Deeper
- Check the condition of the exterior: roof, guttering, walls and windows. Does anything look like it needs urgent repair?
- Take note of kerb appeal, but don't be swayed just by pretty flowers—focus on structure and condition.
2. Take Your Time
- Don't feel rushed, especially during open-house viewings. If needed, book a second or third visit at different times of day to get a sense of natural light, noise and traffic.
3. Take Someone With You
- A second pair of eyes can help you stay objective—and even better if they know a thing or two about buildings or DIY.
4. Use All Your Senses
- Sight: Look for signs of damp, cracks, poor finishes or worn-out fittings.
- Smell: Damp or mould can often be detected through smell before sight.
- Sound: Ask for the TV or radio to be turned off so you can assess noise levels from neighbours or roads.
5. Storage Matters
- Can you realistically store everything from your winter coats to your ironing board? Don't forget to check loft access, understairs cupboards and wardrobes.
6. Don't Be Fooled by Clever Staging
- Show homes or beautifully styled properties might feature small furniture to exaggerate space. Bring a tape measure to check your own furniture will fit.
- Try to imagine the home empty—are you buying into the space, or just the lifestyle on display?
7. Be Polite But Honest (Especially if the Seller Shows You Round)
- If the vendor is present, be courteous—this is their home after all. But don't be afraid to ask about quirks, repairs, or why they're moving.
- If you need to end the viewing early, do so politely and thank them for their time.
8. Ask Questions
Some helpful ones to consider:
- How old is the boiler? Has it been serviced?
- Are there any recent renovations or repairs?
- What's included in the sale?
- What are the neighbours like?
- Is the property listed, or in a conservation area?
Location, Location, Location
It's not just about the house—ask yourself:
- Are you close to shops, public transport, schools or work?
- Is it quiet during the night or noisy during rush hour?
- If you're planning to grow your family, will this location still suit you in five or ten years?
Take a walk around the neighbourhood after your viewing or explore it on Google Street View.
Think Long-Term: Can You Add Value?
Even if the house isn't perfect, could you improve it? Extensions, loft conversions or garden upgrades can all increase value and comfort. But always check planning permissions and think about realistic budgets before planning big changes.
Final Tips for a Successful Viewing
- View at least twice if you're seriously interested.
- Take notes or photos (with permission) to compare properties later.
- Make a list of non-negotiables (e.g. number of bedrooms, parking, garden size).
- Trust your instincts—but balance emotion with logic.