What should a first-time buyer check before a house viewing?

Before the viewing, research the property type and age (Victorian terraces have different risk areas to 1970s semis), check the listing photos carefully for any red flags (suspicious staining, flat roof extensions, older windows), look up the area on flood risk maps, and review recent sold prices on Rightmove for comparable properties in the same postcode.

What questions should a first-time buyer ask at a viewing?

Key questions include: How long has the property been on the market? Has the asking price been reduced? How old is the boiler? Has any structural or damp work been done? Are there planning permissions for any extensions? What's included in the sale? Why are the sellers moving? Are there any known issues with the property?

Is it worth getting a survey before making an offer as a first-time buyer?

Traditional surveys happen after offer acceptance. A pre-offer property check - a structured framework you conduct yourself during the viewing - identifies visible issues before you commit, so you can factor repair costs into your offer. This is different from a formal RICS survey, which provides professional liability and more detailed analysis.

First-Time Buyer House Viewing Checklist UK | Pre-Viewing Guide

Q: How many viewings should a first-time buyer do before making an offer?

At minimum two viewings of the same property before making an offer - one to form a general impression, one to look more carefully at specific concerns you identified on the first visit. Bring someone with construction knowledge if possible for the second viewing.

Your first property purchase is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Being properly prepared before viewings can make all the difference between finding your dream home and making a costly mistake.

Before You View

Get a mortgage agreement in principle - this tells you what you can actually afford
Research the area thoroughly: schools, transport, local amenities
Check sold prices of similar properties on Rightmove or Zoopla
Verify commute times at rush hour, not at 11am on a Tuesday
Look up the flood risk on the Environment Agency's website

What to Bring

A tape measure - for furniture, doorways, and kitchen appliances
A checklist of your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
Your phone for photos (ask permission first)
A list of questions for the agent
KeyWise Viewing Mode - to guide you through a structured room-by-room inspection

Questions to Ask the Agent

How long has it been on the market? (Longer = more negotiating room)
Why are the sellers moving?
What's included in the sale?
Have there been any recent renovations or structural changes?
What's the council tax band?
What are the neighbours like?
Have there been any previous offers that fell through, and why?

What to Look For

Signs of damp: musty smell, staining, mould on walls or ceilings
Cracks in walls or ceilings (hairline cracks are common; diagonal or wide cracks are concerning)
Window condition: condensation between panes, rotting frames
Water pressure: turn on taps and run the shower
Boiler age and condition: anything over 15 years old warrants attention
Loft access: check for signs of water ingress and insulation quality

Frequently Asked Questions

How many viewings should a first-time buyer do before making an offer?

For any property you're seriously considering, always do a second viewing. The first viewing is emotional; the second is analytical. View at a different time of day if possible, and bring someone whose judgement you trust.

Should I get a survey before making an offer?

No - surveys are commissioned after an offer is accepted. However, using a tool like KeyWise during the viewing helps you identify visible risks before you commit. This means you're entering the offer stage with a much clearer picture of potential costs.

What is a mortgage agreement in principle?

A mortgage agreement in principle (AIP) is a statement from a lender indicating how much they'd be willing to lend you, subject to a full application. Having an AIP makes you a more credible buyer in the eyes of sellers and agents.

First-Time Buyer? Here's Your Pre-Viewing Checklist