Viewing London real estate with a mind to buy is an exciting process that must be done with a fine-tooth comb. Yet emotions and a feeling of time pressure can leave you mind-boggled whilst doing so. Not only do we recommend relying on an estate agent who is reliable and trustworthy, like Rickman Properties in London, but also preparing a detailed viewing list beforehand. Whether viewing property in Kensington, Chelsea, Earls Court and other West London areas, take the following checklist with you.
Before Viewing Property
- Make a list of negotiable and non-negotiable specifications to mitigate emotions clouding your judgements while viewing.
- Ensure you have a reliable and honest friend or family member attending the viewing with you.
- Have a good camera to take photos of the property.
- Enquire about multiple viewings and visit at different times of the day.
- Listen closely for neighbourhood noise in key areas of the property, such as the bedroom.
- Take your time when viewing.
Outside and Around the Property
- What are your parking options – on-road, off-road, garage? What is the cost of a permit if this is required?
- Is the property north or south facing? (a south-facing property gets more sun).
- What is the condition of the roof, and how old is it?
- Are there signs of any cracks or damp in the exterior brickwork?
- What land is included in the property?
Windows and Doors
- Do the windows shut easily, and can you feel a draft?
- Are there any gaps under shut doors allowing a draft in?
- Do the door and window locks work? Where are the keys?
- Are the windows single, double or tripled glazed?
Plumbing
- Check sink cupboards for tap leaks.
- Run taps and showers to check the water pressure.
- How long does it take for water to run hot?
- How old is the boiler and when was it last inspected?
Electricity
- How many plug sockets are there per room and are they easy to access?
- Do all the light switches work? Turn each rooms switches on and off to make sure.
- Are there shaver sockets in bathrooms?
- Is there any exposed wiring?
- Check the fuse board.
Size and Storage
- Will the property fit your furniture, or will you need to downsize?
- Is there adequate storage, such as kitchen and bathroom cabinets, an airing cupboard, and a utility room?
- Check the attic – how easy is it to access, what condition is it in, including signs of damp, pest infestation or mould, and could it be converted?
- Check the garage – would a car fit, is it in good condition, and could it be converted?
Safety
- If you’re planning on starting a family, or you have children, is the property able to be baby-proofed?
- Can other people see inside my property?
- Smell and look for signs of damp, mould and condensation. Do so by checking if the plaster is flaking and if there are watermarks on the ceiling, walls and skirting boards.
- Do the fire and burglar alarms work?
Bills
- How insulated is the property and what is the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) grade? This can help judge bill cost.
- Ask if you can see a copy of council and utility bills to anticipate monthly costs.
- Enquire about service charges.
General Checklist for Viewing Property
- Is there any scope for extending the property?
- Which appliances or furnishings are staying in the property? For example, major kitchen appliances.
- What work has been done on the property before? Ask for copies of guarantees.
- Will the current décor require considerable work? Check under mats and rugs for unsightly stains on carpets too.
- Check for mobile signal.
- Ask for details on broadband connection and speed.
- If viewing a flat understand if it is a leasehold or freehold, and how many years are left on the freehold and inspect the condition of the communal areas, checking how many people these areas are shared with.
Conclusion
We look forward to assisting you with your London real estate hunt soon. In the meantime, take a browse of the London properties we currently have on offer here.
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Contact us on – info@rickmanproperties.com 020 7937 9777
