House Viewing Checklist – What Questions Should You Ask?

Walking through a property is exciting. You step into rooms and imagine your furniture fitting in. You look at the garden and think about summer barbecues. But when the buzz wears off, you need answers. Without questions, you’re only half prepared. A viewing isn’t a quick stroll, it’s detective work.

Why Asking Questions At A Viewing Is Vital

Many buyers regret not asking enough. A house may look perfect on the surface. Shiny paint, staged furniture, scented candles. But real life begins after you move in, and that’s when problems show. Asking now could stop you spending thousands later.

Every home has a story. Some good, some not so much. The age of the roof, the reason the owners are moving, even how noisy the neighbours are at night. You won’t always spot these things without a conversation.

The Key Questions You Should Ask

Here’s a breakdown of what to ask and why it matters. Keep notes on your phone or carry a small pad.

How long has it been on the market?

This question seems simple but tells you a lot. If a property has only just been listed, you know the seller is fresh to the market and might hold firm on price. If it’s been up for six months, alarm bells might ring. Maybe other buyers spotted problems during surveys. Maybe the seller set the asking price too high. Sometimes it’s just timing – summer holidays or Christmas can slow sales. But if it’s dragging, you might have room to negotiate thousands off.

Have offers been made?

Asking this shows whether you’ll face competition. If no offers have been made, you could take your time. If there are already two or three on the table, you’ll need to decide quickly. It also hints at how desirable the home really is. A string of offers suggests strong demand. One low offer that got rejected might mean the market thinks it’s overpriced. Either way, you learn where you stand and how to shape your bid.

Why are the sellers moving?

Most sellers are honest when asked this. Relocation for work, moving closer to family, downsizing after children leave home – these are common reasons. But sometimes there’s another story. A neighbour dispute, heavy traffic, lack of schools, or even flooding issues. The seller may not spell it out, but tone of voice and hesitation often give clues. Ask directly. Even if the reason isn’t obvious, it helps you understand the bigger picture of why the home is on the market now.

What is included in the sale?

A living room might look beautiful with its fitted blinds, fancy chandelier, or integrated fridge. But unless you ask, you can’t assume any of it stays. Sellers sometimes take curtain poles, light fittings, or even garden plants. Big appliances like washing machines or dishwashers may not be included. Knowing what’s staying means you won’t face hidden costs replacing essentials after moving day.

What is the property’s tenure?

This is something buyers forget to ask, but it’s vital. A home can be freehold, which means you own the building and the land it sits on outright. Or it could be leasehold, where you only own it for a set number of years, and the land belongs to someone else. Leasehold often means you’ll pay service charges and ground rent too. Sometimes leases have hundreds of years left, sometimes only decades – a short lease can make mortgages tricky and drag down the property’s value. Asking early gives you clarity. You’ll know if there are extra costs or future problems tied to the ownership. Understanding the difference between freehold and leasehold is important.

How old is the boiler and when was it last serviced?

Heating is one of the most expensive parts of a home to repair. Boilers can last around 10–15 years, but if it’s already that old, you could be looking at a replacement costing thousands. Servicing matters too, as a boiler that hasn’t been checked regularly might be less efficient or even unsafe. A simple answer gives you reassurance or, if negative, a chance to budget or negotiate.

What about the roof, windows, and electrics?

These are the “big three” that buyers often overlook. A roof that needs repair can cost tens of thousands. Windows that are single glazed or old double glazing may leak heat. And electrical wiring degrades over time – a full rewire isn’t cheap. Asking when these were last replaced helps you see whether the property is truly move-in ready or whether big bills are waiting down the line.

Have there been any disputes with neighbours?

Nobody likes to admit it, but neighbour problems can be a nightmare. Arguments over boundary fences, parking spaces, noise, or even pets can poison day-to-day life. Sellers are legally required to disclose certain disputes, but it’s still worth asking in person. Sometimes the way they answer gives more away than the official paperwork.

What is the council tax band?

Council tax is one of those unavoidable monthly costs. Band A might feel manageable, Band G not so much. If you’re stretching your budget on a mortgage, the extra hundreds a year can sting. By asking, you’re not just checking figures, you’re making sure your monthly budget will really work. You can always check the council tax band here.

How much are the utility bills on average?

Gas, electricity, water – they all vary. A large detached house will naturally cost more than a small flat, but insulation, windows, and heating systems make a huge difference. Asking for average monthly bills helps you plan ahead, especially now energy prices can fluctuate wildly. Sometimes sellers even show past bills which makes it clearer.

Has the property been extended or has any major work been done?

Loft conversions, rear extensions, or garage changes can add amazing space. But without planning permission or building control approval, it can become your headache. Ask for certificates. If they can’t provide them, you might be left with work that isn’t legally signed off, and it could cause problems when selling later.

Any history of flooding or subsidence?

This is a big one. A house that’s flooded before may flood again. A home with subsidence could be unstable. Insurance companies and lenders look closely at this, so always ask upfront. It’s not about scaring yourself, it’s about protecting your future.

What’s parking like around here?

It sounds minor, but it affects daily life. No driveway? Check for permit schemes. Ask if the street gets full after 6pm. Maybe it’s fine in the daytime but impossible at night. You don’t want the stress of circling for half an hour after work every evening.

What’s internet speed like?

Wi-Fi is no longer a luxury. Slow broadband can ruin working from home or streaming. Ask about providers in the area and actual speeds tested at the property. Sellers often know because they’ve had the same frustrations.

When was the house built?

A Victorian terrace, a 1930s semi, or a new build all come with pros and cons. Older houses may need more upkeep but have character. Newer ones are efficient but might lack space. By asking, you get a sense of the home’s style, structure, and potential maintenance costs.

What’s the area like at night or weekends?

Viewings usually happen in the day. Streets feel quiet, neighbours might be at work, traffic is lighter. At night or weekends the picture can change. Ask directly. Is it noisy? Is there late-night activity? Are pubs or bars nearby? These things shape your daily life.

Are there schools, shops, or transport links nearby?

It’s not just about the house. It’s about where the house sits. Daily errands, commuting, or walking kids to school all matter. Even if you don’t have children, good schools nearby help with resale value later.

What’s the seller’s timeline?

Some sellers need to move quickly – maybe they’ve already bought. Others are happy to wait. Their answer could make your offer more attractive if you match their pace. It’s also useful for planning your own move, especially if you’re in a chain.

Are there guarantees or warranties still valid?

Big upgrades sometimes come with guarantees. New roofs, new windows, fitted kitchens – these can last ten or twenty years on paper. Ask if they have documents to prove it. If yes, you benefit from cover even after moving in.

Things To Look For Beyond Questions

Don’t just rely on answers. Pay attention with your own eyes and ears.

• Smell damp or mustiness? Could mean hidden leaks.

• Fresh paint only on one wall? Might be hiding cracks.

• Windows stiff or condensation inside the glass? Check for damage.

• Water pressure – run the taps and flush toilets.

• Outside space – does the garden get sunlight?

• Street noise – stand quietly for a moment.
  
  

Open House Viewings

Sometimes you’ll attend an open house, not a private viewing. Don’t let the crowd rush you. Take your time. Jot down questions in advance. Even in a busy open house in Brentwood or Hornchurch, you’re still entitled to ask the estate agent for answers. And if you miss something, follow up later. We’ll soon be sharing a whole blog about open houses, so keep an eye out.

Connecting With Local Experts

If you’re looking around Hornchurch or Brentwood, our Lux Homes branches are here to help. We know the local market inside out, from quiet cul-de-sacs to bustling high streets. Visit our Hornchurch office on the High Street or pop into our Brentwood branch and we’ll guide you through every step.

Final Thoughts That Really Count

Asking the right questions during a viewing isn’t about being awkward. It’s about protecting yourself and your future. A home is more than bricks – it’s where you’ll live your life. Be curious, be confident, and never feel silly for asking one question too many. The right agent will always understand, but if you’re asking the questions to the seller themselves, always be wary that they may not be completely truthful, so it’s always worth getting a property survey completed if you’re interested.