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Writer's pictureRene Illescas

Ultimate Guide to Viewing a Property: Essential Tips for Home Buyers

Updated: Aug 1


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Finding the perfect home goes beyond just falling in love with its looks. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned property hunter, there are key factors to consider when viewing a property to ensure it meets all your needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you make an informed decision:


 

1: Inspect the Neighbourhood

Location, Location, Location


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The neighborhood plays a crucial role in your overall satisfaction with a property. Start by considering the following:


  • Accessibility: Is the property situated near main roads or highways? Evaluate how easy it is to get in and out of the city. Proximity to major roads can be convenient but can also mean noise and traffic disturbances. Check if there are any potential noise sources, such as busy intersections or railway tracks.

  • Natural Light: Look around to see if there are any large trees or buildings that might block sunlight from reaching your potential new home. Natural light can significantly impact the ambiance of your living space.


  • Local Amenities: Evaluate the convenience of nearby services. How close are grocery stores, cafes, doctor’s offices, and other essential services? Having these amenities within walking distance can save you time and make daily life more enjoyable.



2. Parking and Transportation

Practicality Matters


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Public Transport:

If you rely on public transportation, check the proximity to bus stops, train stations, or subway lines. Also, consider whether the home is within the school bus route radius if you have children.


Parking:

Examine the parking situation. Is there ample space for your needs? If the property has a garage, is it large enough to accommodate your vehicles and provide additional storage? Don’t forget to check if the street allows overnight parking if you have multiple cars.



3. Examine Electrical and Appliances

Functionality First


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A beautiful home can quickly lose its charm if the basic utilities aren’t working correctly. During your viewing, ensure that the following are in good working order:


  • Built-in Kitchen Appliances: If the home comes with appliances like a microwave, dishwasher, or fridge, check their condition and functionality. Ask if they will be included in the sale and if any repairs or replacements are needed.


  • Wall Sockets: Check if there are enough wall sockets in convenient locations and test a few to ensure they work.


  • Light Switches and Lighting: Test all light switches to ensure they operate correctly and that the lighting is adequate throughout the house.


  • Taps and Water Pressure: Turn on the taps in the kitchen and bathrooms to check the water pressure and ensure there are no leaks.


If you find any issues, don’t hesitate to ask the seller or your realtor for more information and whether these problems will be addressed before the sale.


4. Is the Home Your Home?

Imagining Your Life Here


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It’s easy to get swept away by a home’s staging and décor, but it’s important to envision how you’ll actually live in the space:


  • Furniture Fit: Consider how your current furniture will fit in the new home. For instance, will your sofa fit comfortably in the living room? If not, are you prepared to buy new furniture?


  • Space and Layout: Assess if the house is spacious enough to meet your needs. Think about whether it can accommodate your family size and daily activities. Are the closets big enough? Does the open-concept layout work for your lifestyle?


  • Daily Routine: Reflect on your daily habits and routines. For example, if you enjoy cooking breakfast while watching the news, check if the kitchen’s layout allows you to see the TV comfortably.



 

Viewing a property is more than just admiring its aesthetics; it’s about ensuring that it meets your practical needs and lifestyle preferences. By paying attention to these critical factors, you’ll be better equipped to find a home that truly feels like your own. Remember, a good and qualified realtor will help you navigate these considerations and ask the right questions on your behalf. Happy house hunting!

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