A recent survey by Zoopla found that buyers spend an average of just 20 minutes viewing a house before making an offer.
According to property expert Jonathan Rolande, founder of House Buy Fast, this is a direct result of the post-Covid property market, where buyers are rushing to secure homes and rely heavily on online research before arranging a viewing.
“The market pressure, combined with the availability of detailed online resources, means buyers feel they can make quicker decisions,” says Rolande. However, he warns that rushing through a viewing can lead to costly mistakes. “Never feel pressured into making a bid without getting your questions answered. It’s always worth requesting a second viewing if necessary.”
Here are Rolande’s top 10 questions to ask before bidding at auction:
What are the neighbours like?
Bad neighbours can turn a dream home into a nightmare. Ask the current owner about the neighbours and check out the condition of surrounding homes. You can even search Google News for any local stories involving the street.
Are the inside walls cracked?
Hairline cracks may be harmless, but anything bigger could indicate structural issues. Look at both the internal walls and external brickwork—cracked bricks are more concerning than cracks in mortar.
Is the water pressure good?
Turn on the taps during your viewing to check the water pressure. Low pressure could mean expensive plumbing repairs.
Are the floors springy?
Springy floors can indicate rotten timbers, which may be costly to replace. Walk around the property and pay attention to the feel of the floors.
Does something smell off?
Take note of any unusual smells, such as damp or mould. The presence of multiple dehumidifiers is a red flag that the home may have moisture problems.
Have you checked the manholes?
Often overlooked, manhole covers that appear to have been recently lifted may signal drainage issues. It’s worth investigating further.
How secure is the property?
Look for excessive security measures, which could indicate problems in the area. Double-check local crime rates and news stories for any red flags.
Does the home have enough power outlets?
With so many devices in modern life, having enough plug sockets is crucial. Adding sockets later can damage decor and become a costly and inconvenient task.
Have you visited more than once?
Visit the property at different times of day, especially during rush hour, after school hours, or at night. Neighbourhoods can change dramatically depending on the time.
Have you checked the loft?
Lofts can vary from spacious storage areas or potential new rooms to cramped, unusable spaces. Make sure to check it out, as this can affect future plans for the property.
