Viewing a property as a first-time buyer

Mortgage Quote Line

0845 108 0505

• Mortgages
• Credit Cards
• Loans
• Investments
• Life Insurance
• Home Insurance
• Insurance

Viewing a property as a first-time buyer

Buying a house will possibly be the most important financial decision you ever make.

Wherever you choose to buy a property, and whatever constraints you face in terms of budget, going for an extensive viewing and taking the time to think about the property is essential. The following tips for first-time buyers could help you to choose the best property possible.

Go with someone else. Whether you choose a sensible friend or a parent, it is essential to go with someone else. As well as personal safety, this also allows an instant second opinion and someone you can bounce ideas off. Not only that, the person you take with you could spot things you miss, whether positive or negative.

• Do your groundwork. Many first-time buyers rush into viewings with no idea about the property. Ask questions beforehand and get as much information as possible. That way, no time will be wasted and you'll go prepared.
• Go in the daytime. As a first-time buyers looking for a property, you should always look in the hours of daylight. Any problems will be more obvious, and the lightness of the property will be more obvious.
• Go back at other times. Be aware that some places change completely during certain times of the day. There would be nothing worse as a first-time buyer to settle into your new home only to find that the noise was unbearable every rush hour.
• Question everything. Many first-time buyers are afraid to ask questions, or simply forget to ask questions during the viewing. This is another part of being prepared as a first-time buyer - work out a list of questions beforehand. Don't be afraid because this is your money. Stand your ground if vendors or estate agents try to divert your attention.
• Don't be swayed by sales talk. The old used car salesman tactic of 'it'll be sold by this afternoon' or 'there are tonnes of other people interested' shouldn't bother you.
• Further expenses. Be aware about further expenses once you move into a property.

Inside the property

Although the structure of the house may seem fine, there are several other things you should think about before you make your decision. As said before, being a first-time buyer can be nerve-wracking. Think things through and take your time.

• Fixtures and fitting. Which ones are included?
• Council tax. How much is it? Will it change?
• Heating. How is the house heated
• Done up. Has the house been altered for sale? Have recent alterations been made?
• Planning permission. Although most first-time buyers are a bit strapped for cash to thing this far ahead, will you be extending the property? Could you get planning permission?
• Restrictive Covenants. Are there any in place? This could prevent you from carrying out something you want to achieve with the property.
  

General viewing tips for first-time buyers

The following tips are more general, but all are worth bearing in mind as a first-time buyer viewing a property.

• Does the property suit your needs?
• Will your possessions fit?
• What state of repair is the property like?
• What is the neighbourhood like?
• What are the neighbours like?

Found a property that you like the look of? Then you'll need a mortgage.

Click here for our quick enquiry form .