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When you are viewing a property, you can easily be drawn by some features such as a lovely fireplace or a luxurious wet room, only to forget that you have some questions to ask the estate agent.

This is why our handy property viewing checklist is so useful.

From dreaming about the possibilities of space to examining its features, there are several things to assess before making one of the most critical financial choices in your life. A checklist is an essential tool to use to guarantee that you are making an informed decision. Below is a detailed guide on what one should look out for when inspecting a house.

13 Checklist Items When Viewing Houses 

1. Establishing a First Impression

• Exterior Condition: Determine whether the property looks well taken care of or not; areas to consider include paintwork, roof space, and gardens.

• Neighborhood Atmosphere: Assess how well you feel in the neighbourhood, based on noise level, how neighbouring properties are managed, and the environment.

2. Structural Integrity

• Foundation: Search for signs of existing structural problems, including cracks or uneven floors, which may be a sign of subsidence.
• Roof: Look for potential problem areas in the roof for instance loose shingles or weak parts of the roof.

• Walls: Look for large cracks in the exterior and interior walls and any signs of water damage that might hint at structural problems.

3. Evaluation of Windows and Doors

• Insulation: Assess the level of insulation in the windows and identify if they are single-glazed which may lack insulation from cold or noise or if they are double or triple-glazed.

• Condition: Inspect the window frames for any signs of wood rot and test all the windows to ensure that they open and shut properly. Also, evaluate the doors for proper shutdown and check whether the space beneath the door is as small as possible.

4. Inspection of the Plumbing and Electrical Systems

• Water Supply: Check the water pressure by turning on the taps in areas like the washroom and the kitchen to ensure free flow and fast draining.
• Hot Water: Determine the hot water flow rate and reliability.
• Electrical System: Check if the electrical outlets are sufficient and responsive, and whether they are of the current design and if they work.
• Lighting: Any problems such as flickering lights or non-illuminating bulbs should also be looked for.

5. Heating and Cooling System Assessment

• Central Heating: Specifically, one should ask about the age of the central heating system and its servicing history.
• Air Conditioning: Evaluate the effectiveness and extent of coverage of any air conditioning systems installed.
• Fireplaces: If appropriate, ask about the usability and condition of fireplaces and when the chimney was last cleaned.

6. Detailed Room Evaluation

Kitchen: Assess storage and counter space adequacy, appliance condition, and cabinet wear.

Bathrooms: Inspect for mould or dampness, check toilet flushing, and verify exhaust fan functionality.

Bedrooms: Evaluate storage availability and detect any signs of dampness or mould.

Living Areas: Determine spaciousness and natural light levels.

7. Utilization of Space and Storage

• Closets: Check size and shelving suitability for your needs.
• Attic/Basement: Assess dryness and potential for storage or conversion.
• Garage: Ensure it accommodates your vehicle(s) and offers extra storage.

8. External Features

• Garden: Consider the manageability and presence of a patio or deck.
• Fencing: Evaluate the condition and privacy provided.
• Driveway: Verify size and condition adequacy.

9. Future Planning

• Extension Potential: Assess whether the layout and space allow for future extensions.
• Local Developments: Research planned infrastructure changes impacting property value or enjoyment.
• Energy Efficiency: Note insulation quality, heating efficiency, and solar panel presence.

10. Local Amenities

• Transport Links: Evaluate public transport availability and peak-hour traffic.
• Schools: Consider proximity to reputable educational facilities.
• Shops and Restaurants: Assess the convenience of nearby grocery stores, cafes, and essential services.

11. Legal and Practical Considerations

Deeds and Boundaries: Confirm property boundaries and any rights of way.

Planning Permissions: Verify proper permissions for property alterations or extensions.

Surveys: Consider commissioning a full structural survey for hidden issues.

12. Sensory Observation

• Noise: Assess street noise levels and potential sound transmission from neighbours.
• Odors: Investigate any unpleasant smells indicating underlying issues.

13. Instinctive Assessment

Lastly, trust your intuition—does the property feel like a place you can call home?

If you’re searching for houses for sale in Inner West Sydney, Pilcher Residential has everything you need! 

How Many Times Should I View a House Before Buying?

This is why it is recommended that a property be seen several times before a purchase is made.

As much as there is high activity in the market and many buyers showing interest in a specific property, it is advised that one should inspect the property twice before considering buying it.

The first impressions often involve some emotions that can result in missing out on some essential matters.

Subsequent viewings—whether second, third, or even fourth—allow you to:

• Take a closer look at the property’s state.
• Assess whether it is useful for what you require.
• Consult other family members or health care providers.
• Visit the place and its environment in the morning, evening, and night.
• Measure to ensure they can accommodate your clothes and belongings without squeezing them in.