10 Questions Buyers Should Ask During A Property Viewing

Knowing the right questions to ask during a property viewing can help you make a more confident decision before putting in an offer.

A viewing is your chance to look beyond the photos, get a feel for the space and understand what living in the property could really be like. From repairs and running costs to the neighbourhood and legal details, asking a few sensible questions early can help you avoid surprises later.

Here are 10 important questions to keep in mind when viewing a property.

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1. Why Is The Owner Selling?

This can help you understand the seller’s situation and, in some cases, how flexible they may be on price or timescales.

They may be relocating for work, upsizing, downsizing or moving closer to family. The answer will not always reveal everything about the property, but it can provide helpful context.

If the reason is unclear, ask a follow-up question. You may also want to ask whether the seller has found their next home, as this could affect the speed and certainty of the sale.

2. How Long Has The Property Been On The Market?

A property that has been for sale for a while is not automatically a red flag. It may simply have been priced too high at first, received little exposure or come onto the market at a quieter time of year.

However, it is worth asking:

• Has the price been reduced?
• Has the property been previously listed with another agent?
• Have there been previous offers?
• Why did any previous sale fall through?

This can help you understand the property’s history and make a more informed offer.

3. What Is Included In The Sale?

Do not assume that fixtures, fittings or appliances will be left behind.

Ask what is included in the sale, particularly if you are interested in items such as:

• Kitchen appliances
• Light fittings
• Window coverings
• Garden sheds or storage units
• Built-in wardrobes
• Freestanding furniture

The seller will confirm the final details during the legal process, but asking early can prevent confusion and help you budget properly.

4. What Are The Running Costs?

The purchase price is only one part of the cost of owning a home. Ask about typical running costs so you can understand what the property may cost month to month.

Useful questions include:

• What Council Tax band is the property in?
• What is the EPC rating?
• What type of heating does it have?
• How old is the boiler?
• Are there any service charges or ground rent payments?
• Are there any known issues with insulation, windows or heating efficiency?

If you are looking at a flat or leasehold property, ask for details of service charges, building insurance and any planned major works.

5. Have There Been Any Recent Repairs Or Renovations?

Ask whether the property has had recent work completed, particularly to the roof, boiler, electrics, plumbing, windows or damp proofing.

If major work has been carried out, ask whether there are warranties, certificates or planning and building regulation documents available. This information can be useful later when your solicitor carries out checks.

You should also ask about any work that the seller knows may be needed in the near future. A home that needs updating can still be a great purchase, but it is important to understand the likely cost before making an offer.

6. What Is The Area Like At Different Times Of Day?

The property may feel completely different on a Saturday afternoon compared with a weekday rush hour or evening.

Visit the area at different times if you can. Check parking, traffic, noise levels, public transport, nearby shops and the general feel of the street.

You may also want to explore our local area guides before deciding where to buy, especially if you are moving to a new part of Birmingham.

7. Are There Any Plans For Development Nearby?

New homes, commercial buildings, roads or local improvements can change an area over time.

Ask the agent whether they are aware of any nearby development plans, then do your own research with the local council. Development can bring new amenities and investment, but it can also affect views, parking, traffic and noise.

This is particularly important if your decision to buy is influenced by open land, a quiet setting or an uninterrupted view.

8. How Secure Is The Property?

Security is worth considering, especially if you are new to the area or the property will be left empty regularly.

Ask whether the home has features such as an alarm, secure entry system, outdoor lighting, window locks or CCTV. You can also speak to neighbours and research the area yourself to get a more rounded view.

For flats, ask about communal entrance security, how deliveries are managed and whether there have been any issues with the building.

9. What Is The Condition Of The Garden And Outdoor Space?

Gardens, balconies and outdoor areas can be a major selling point, but they can also require time and money to maintain.

Check whether the garden is overlooked, how much sun it gets and whether there are any signs of drainage issues. Ask about boundaries, shared access and any structures such as sheds, outbuildings or summer houses.

If there is off-street parking, make sure it is included within the title and ask whether there are any restrictions on access or use.

10. Are There Any Legal Or Title Issues?

Some issues will be investigated properly by your solicitor later in the process, but it is still sensible to ask early if there is anything you should be aware of.

This could include:

• Boundary disputes
• Shared driveways or access rights
• Restrictive covenants
• Planning permissions
• Leasehold terms
• Service charges or ground rent
• Flood risk or previous flooding
• Building work without the correct paperwork

The seller’s legal forms, your conveyancer and any survey will provide more detailed answers. If something concerns you at the viewing stage, make a note and raise it before committing to an offer.

What Should I Do After A Property Viewing?

Take a few minutes after each viewing to write down what you liked, what concerned you and any questions that still need answering. It is easy to forget details after seeing several properties in one day.

If you are seriously interested, consider booking a second viewing. Take someone else with you, measure key spaces if needed and look more closely at anything you missed the first time.

Before making an offer, make sure you understand your budget and mortgage options. Oakmans can help you explore this through our mortgage services.

For a broader overview of the buying process, the Government’s How To Buy A Home guide is a useful resource.

Find Your Next Home With Oakmans

Asking the right questions gives you a clearer picture of the property, the area and whether it is right for you.

Browse properties for sale with Oakmans and speak to our team when you are ready to arrange a viewing or make an offer.

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