Key questions every buyer should ask at a viewing to avoid surprises and make informed offers.
Viewing a property is exciting but also full of potential pitfalls. Asking the right questions during a viewing, whether to the agent or the owner, will help you uncover hidden issues, understand running costs, discover true value and negotiate with confidence.
What to Ask When Viewing a Property
Here are important questions, grouped by theme, that buyers should be prepared to ask. Use them to guide you, compare properties and feel confident before making any offers.
1. Seller & Agent Motivation
Why are the owners selling? Sometimes it’s lifestyle or work; other times there may be issues that previous viewers noticed.
How long has the property been on the market? If several months, investigate why. It could indicate overpricing or hidden problems.
How much interest and how many viewings have there been? Also ask if any offers have already been made. Knowing this lets you assess how competitive things are.
Have there been any previous sales that fell through? If so, why? That might reveal recurring issues (legal, structural, or other) that could affect you.
2. Condition, History & Legal Matters
What’s the condition of the major elements? (Roof, boiler, windows, insulation, damp/mould.) Any recent repairs or renovation? Were they done with proper permissions and paperwork?
Are there any legal constraints? Covenants, easements, planning restrictions, or obligations noted on deeds. Also whether it is in a conservation area or has listing status.
Is there anything unusual about the layout or boundaries? For example shared access, party walls, boundary disputes, rights of way.
3. Running Costs & Practicalities
What are the running costs? Council tax band, utility bills (gas, electricity, water), maintenance, insurance. If possible, get actual recent figures.
What is the property’s energy performance like? EPC rating, insulation, heating type. Any recent improvements that help with energy bills.
How reliable are services? Water pressure, plumbing, broadband and mobile signals. Does everything work as expected? (Tap/shower test, check phone coverage, etc.)
4. Neighbourhood, Amenity & Lifestyle
What is Romford (or the specific area) like? Schools, doctors, shops, transport links, green space. How well connected is it? Are there any planned developments or changes that might affect the area?
How is the ambiance and light? Which way does the property face? How much natural light comes in? This affects comfort and mood. Also observe noise, smells, and whether neighbouring homes are well kept.
5. Timing & Negotiation
What’s the seller’s timeline? Have they found another home? Are they part of a chain? How soon are they hoping to move? If a seller is keen, there may be room to negotiate.
How negotiable is the price? Based on interest, how long it's been listed, and how motivated the seller seems. Knowing this gives you leverage in making offers.
Are there issues with documentation? Make sure all paperwork is in order — e.g. deeds, permissions for past work, warranties, certificates. Missing documents can delay a sale or affect your offer.
The property viewing stage is your chance to ask the right questions, spot issues early and negotiate with confidence. Being well informed can make a real difference both in price paid and peace of mind.
Make sure you follow Keys & Lee on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for regular content and information for homebuyers and sellers in Romford.
07969 638349
duncan.kaye@keysandlee.co.uk
Duncan has been selling homes in Romford for 23 years and helped thousands of people, couples and families move to a new home.
Having sold family homes, probate properties, off market homes and high value exclusive estates, Duncan will be able to work with you to achieve an outcome that suits your specific needs.
