Questions To Ask When Viewing a Property

If you’re considering moving house, there are undoubtedly hundreds of questions and concerns running through your mind. How far away from schools is the new property? Which York removal company will you choose? Does any work need to be done on the new place before it’s fit for living in? Will it house all of your belongings?

We know there’s a lot to consider, so we’ve produced a list of must-ask questions for you to bear in mind on your next viewing. Forget the other worries racing through your head – if you get the answers to these questions, you’ll find out everything you need to know about a property!

Why is the current owner selling this house?

If the owner is downsizing or moving abroad, these are legitimate reasons for selling a house. But if the current owner is moving because of the noisy neighbours, the fact that the nearest shop is miles away, or the fact that the house isn’t suitable for a family, that’s a huge red flag. Finding out exactly why the owner wants to sell up can tell you much more about a property than the estate agent’s ad.

What’s included in the asking price?

Find out whether any furniture is included within the asking price, and whether the fixtures and fittings will remain the same. It’s also useful to enquire about outdoor furniture like sheds or water features – will they be sticking around after the sale or are they going with the old owners? Lastly, ask the agent to show you the exact boundaries of the property – that way you’ll know exactly what you’re getting for your money.

Which way does the property face?

Your idyllic garden might look gorgeous, but if the garden faces north, or if it’s blocked by the sun, you’ll be spending all your time in the shade – not ideal! Similarly, make sure to check the angles of light throughout the house. If the room you planned to have as your office is south-facing, you might have blinding light in your eyes throughout the summer.

What can you tell me about the local neighbourhood?

Ask your agent to talk briefly about the neighbourhood (and supplement their answers with your own independent research, if you can). Find out about local schools and shops, crime rates, local petrol stations, transport links and anything else that might affect your day-to-day existence.

Can I look behind / underneath the furniture?

Ask the agent whether you can move a few pieces around – sellers might be trying to disguise some sneaky damp or structural cracks by hiding them behind wardrobes or underneath rugs. The last thing you want is to put an offer in only to discover the house is riddled with structural issues that were masked by strategically-placed furniture.

If you’re thinking of moving out, let Van Man York take at least one load off your mind – our York removals are efficient and budget-friendly, so you can focus on finding your dream home for less.