Keywest Estate Agents / Jul 19

You’ve browsed the extensive listings of properties for sale in Leicester, and you’ve contacted the team at Keywest to arrange your viewing, but what should be next on your agenda? Making a checklist to ensure that you make the most out of your visit – that’s what.

To help you out, we’ve compiled our own list of the sort of questions you should be asking on any viewing. Some of them may not apply in every case, and you may already know the answers to others, but having an idea of the sort of information you require can help to make sure that you don’t get carried away with viewing a great property and leave without knowing all of the facts.

Of course, if you view a property with Keywest, our team is always on hand, either before, after or during your viewing, to answer any questions that you may have. Do not ever be afraid or embarrassed to ask: buying a home is a big step, and you need to be fully informed to ensure that you make the right decision.

Top Questions to Ask

What council tax band is the property in, and how much will this equate to when it comes to your payments?

Is the property freehold or leasehold? If it is leasehold, what is the amount of ground rent you will be expected to pay?

Does the property have parking, either on-site or nearby? If not, is parking an issue in the area?

Is the garden shared or private, and in what direction does it face? What does this mean when it comes to matching its sunny periods with your lifestyle requirements?

What is the local area like, and how friendly are the neighbours? Are there any issues in the area? Is it noisy?

What are the schools in the locality like and are the transport links good? Where are the closest shops?

Is there a chain to consider if you decided to buy the property?

Are the owners in a hurry to move? What sort of time-scale are they working to?

Have the current owners carried out any building work or renovations at the property?

Things to Look For

As well as asking the right questions, it is also important to look closely at the property during a viewing in order to assess whether it is right for you and to spot any potential issues early.

Consider things such as the state of the plumbing and the standard of the exterior of the property, including the roof and chimney. It is also worth looking out for signs of damp and any cracks to the ceilings or walls.

Do not be afraid to have a look behind bookcases or ask to turn on the taps – this sort of vigilance can minimise the risk of surprise maintenance costs if you do decide to buy.

Are you looking to buy or sell property in the Leicestershire area? Call our expert property team at Keywest today 01162544555 – someone will always be available to help.