What Should You Look for During a Home Viewing?

Home viewings are often when a property starts to feel like a real possibility. You walk through the entryway and check out the rooms, and you begin to dream of what life will be like after you move in.

But a successful property viewing is about more than whether or not you like the house.

Some of the most important details are not always visible in listing photos or mentioned in property descriptions. Knowing about ownership restrictions, included features, previous alterations and possible additional expenses can make a big difference to your buying decision.

Knowing what to look for when you look at a home allows you to get meaningful information, instead of just relying on initial impressions.

Here are some often overlooked points that can help you feel more confident on your next property visit.

1. Check Whether the Property Matches Its Listing Description

Read listing information carefully before going to a viewing. Think about what features first attracted you to the property.

When you get there, compare it to the details advertised.

For example, a listing might say a room is a bedroom, but you might want to check if it meets the applicable requirements for that use. Similarly, the finished square footage may be advertised differently than you might think.

You should also indicate whether or not any spaces are included in the square footage you report.

If something doesn’t look right, ask why.

Check the details of a property so you don’t make assumptions about what you are buying.

2. Find Out Which Features Are Included in the Sale

Not everything you see during a home viewing comes with the property.

During the home buying process, it's important to understand that some appliances, decorative fixtures, and other items may belong to the seller and could be removed before you take possession.

The property could have a nice wall mounted television, custom shelving or outdoor equipment. But just because they're here for viewing doesn't mean they'll stick around.

Find out what fixtures, appliances and other items are included in the sale.

It’s also important to have any agreed inclusions written down clearly in the purchase agreement.

This prevents confusion when you have to move to your new place.

3. Understand the Property's Ownership Arrangements

Different types of residential properties may come with different ownership responsibilities.

There may be different rules and financial obligations for a detached home, condo, townhouse or property in a managed community.

Ask about any shared ownerships or community rules that apply to the property when you are viewing.

For example, a property may have rules about exterior alterations, pets, parking or the use of shared amenities.

Request information about condo or association fees and governing documents, if applicable.

Knowing these duties beforehand can help you figure out if the property fits your expectations.

4. Ask About Property Boundaries and Shared Access

The outdoor space you see on a property may not be the property’s true legal boundary.

Fences, landscaping, and driveways aren’t always a good indicator of where one property ends and another begins.

This is especially true if you are planning to erect a fence, build an addition or make changes to outdoor spaces.

Ask about a current survey or other pertinent property documentation.

You should also look for any registered easements, shared driveways, rights of way or access arrangements that could impact on the property.

These details can affect how you may be able to use some of the land.

5. Learn About Previous Alterations and Required Approvals

A renovated home can provide updated living spaces and modern features. Buyers should be aware, however, as to whether major alterations were done with the proper approvals.

If there is an addition, converted garage, secondary suite or other major modification to the property, ask about its history.

Depending on local requirements, some projects may require building permits, inspections, or other approvals.

Ask whether records exist for any major changes.

This information may be important if you are planning future renovations, applying for financing, or eventually selling the property.

It’s nice to see a finished space, but just as important is to verify what the space is allowed to be used for.

6. Consider Your Internet and Connectivity Needs

Reliable connectivity is an essential part of everyday life.

If you are working remotely, attending online meetings, streaming entertainment or using smart home devices, it is worth checking out the internet services available at the property.

During your visit you can test the reception of your mobile phone in different parts of the house.

Ask about the internet providers available at the address and the connection options.

If you rely on high-speed internet for your work, call the provider directly to check if service is available before you buy.

Just because a particular service is available at the surrounding properties doesn’t mean that same service is at the home you’re looking at.

7. Ask About Insurance Considerations

Home insurance is a major component of the total cost of buying a property.

Certain property features may impact insurance availability, coverage or premiums.

The insurance company may ask, for example, the age of the building, what materials it is constructed of and whether it has a claims history or certain systems installed.

While you are viewing the property, please make a note of any property features that you might want to discuss with an insurance provider.

You might want to get an insurance quote on the particular property before closing the deal.

This can help you better understand your anticipated expenses and any coverage needs that need to be addressed.

8. Understand the Timeline for Taking Possession

The house may be the right house for you, but the timing of the purchase is also important.

When viewing, ask the seller if they have a preferred date of possession.

Some sellers will be able to move quickly, others will take longer to sort out their own arrangements.

If you are renting now, selling another property or coordinating a move, the proposed timeline may impact your decision.

You should also verify that the property is currently occupied and whether there are any tenancy arrangements that will affect possession.

Having this info ahead of time before putting in an offer can make for a more predictable transaction.

9. Find Out About Future Use and Improvement Possibilities

Your needs today may not be the same in a few years’ time.

You might want to add a home office, build a garage, create a separate living space or make changes to the outdoor space.

However, before getting excited about these improvements, you might want to consider whether the property suits your plans.

Some projects may be limited by zoning, building codes and other restrictions, such as setbacks.

A real estate professional can help you to find the right direction, but you will need to confirm the specific development possibilities with the relevant authorities.

Considering future flexibility can help you determine if the property will be a good fit in the long run.

10. Request Important Documents Before Making a Commitment

Some questions can be answered with a viewing but supporting documentation is needed for other information.

Depending on the property and the requirements that apply, useful records can include seller’s disclosures, permits, surveys, warranties, condominium documents and information regarding property taxes.

Not all documents will be available at the first visit.

But getting the records you'll need early can help you prepare for the next step in the buying process.

Going over the correct paperwork with qualified experts can help to clarify any potential obligations you may have before you sign on the dotted line.

11. Consider How Easy the Property May Be to Sell in the Future

You’re buying a home for yourself, but it makes sense to think about how it will be received in the marketplace in the future.

You might not always have the same taste as the wider market of buyers.

A highly personalized interior or a quirky property layout might be perfect for your lifestyle, but it may not attract as many buyers down the line.

Think about how the home’s features will fit the needs of your household.

You can also check with your real estate professional for comparable sales and the types of properties that have been attracting attention in the surrounding market.

While there's no guarantee of resale value in the future, knowing what might appeal to the market can help you make a more balanced decision.

Make Your Home Search More Informed With Daniel

Buying a home is more than buying a good looking home.

Buyers are often faced with questions that must be considered carefully, from parsing the listing details to examining critical ownership considerations.

Daniel can help you set up property viewings, compare homes available, understand relevant market information and guide you through the steps of buying a property.

Whether you're viewing homes for the first time or you’re narrowing down your options, professional guidance can bring more clarity to each decision.

The goal is to find a home that is right for your lifestyle, and that you are clear on the big stuff before you move forward.

Conclusion

A home viewing should offer more than just the appearance of the property.

This is a chance to find out what’s included in the sale, what the ownership obligations are, to investigate previous modifications and to learn any information that may impact your future plans.

It’s easy to overlook many of these when you get excited about a particular home.

Ask questions and confirm important information and you will be better informed about what you are buying.

A beautiful house may catch your eye but an informed decision is what helps to make a promising property the right home.