A property viewing is an opportunity to learn much more than whether you like the apartment.
In just 20 or 30 minutes, buyers can gather information about the building, monthly costs, maintenance requirements and the practical realities of living there. The right questions can also help identify future expenses that may not be immediately obvious during a first visit.
1. Check The Building, Not Just The Apartment
While most of the viewing takes place inside the apartment, it is also worth paying attention to the building itself.
Look at the entrance, staircase, lift, corridors and general condition of the common areas. These can provide useful clues about how the building is maintained and whether major renovation projects may be required in the future.
If the building has a homeowners' association, ask the agent or owner for the common representative’s contact information, and find out whether any significant repairs or upgrades are planned, or if there are any legal issues with non-paying owners.
2. Ask About Common Charges And Utility Costs
Two similar apartments can have very different monthly costs.
Useful questions include:
- What are the monthly common charges?
- What are the typical heating costs?
- How much do electricity and water usually cost?
- Are there parking or storage fees?
“Many buyers focus heavily on the purchase price but spend very little time understanding the ongoing costs of ownership. Monthly expenses will continue long after the transaction has been completed,” says Alex Markus, Chief Executive of City-Lets Ltd.
3. Take A Closer Look At Future Maintenance Costs
A viewing can also help buyers understand what maintenance or replacement work may be needed in the coming years.
Pay attention to the age and condition of:
- Windows
- Doors
- Radiators
- Boilers
- Air conditioning units
- Electrical switches and sockets
Also look closely for:
- Signs of damp or water damage
- Cracks in walls or ceilings
- Creaky or uneven floors
These details can provide valuable context when comparing multiple properties. It is often wise to take along a qualified builder to help with this assessment, especially during a second viewing.
4. Ask About The Property's History
Not everything important is visible during a viewing.
Useful questions include:
- How long has the property been on the market?
- Why is the owner selling?
- When were the windows replaced?
- When was the heating system installed?
- Has the apartment been renovated?
- Have there been any previous water leaks or insurance claims?
The answers can help buyers build a more complete picture of the property.
5. Check Natural Light And Noise Levels
The same apartment can feel very different depending on the time of day.
Pay attention to:
- Amount of sunlight (no amount of renovation can fix this!)
- Traffic noise
- Nearby construction
- Activity on the street
If possible, visit the area more than once before making a decision. Morning, afternoon and evening conditions can vary significantly.
6. Review The Available Documents
A viewing is often only the first step in the decision-making process.
Depending on the property, buyers may wish to review:
- Floor plans
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Title deed information
- Building regulations
- Homeowners' association documents
“Buying an apartment is not only about the viewing. The documents often contain information that cannot be seen during a twenty-minute inspection,” says Alex Markus.
7. Take Notes Before Viewing The Next Property
After several viewings, details can quickly become difficult to remember.
Many buyers find it useful to make notes immediately afterwards, including:
- Monthly costs
- Renovation needs
- Building condition
- Orientation
- Storage space
- Features they liked
- Features they would change
These notes can make it much easier to compare properties later.
A Viewing Is An Opportunity To Gather Information
The kitchen, furniture and decoration often attract the most attention during a viewing, but the appointment also provides an opportunity to learn more about the building, monthly costs, maintenance requirements and future ownership expenses.
“It is very easy to get distracted by the furniture, decoration and paint colours. The more important questions are often about the windows, heating system, common charges, insulation and the condition of the building itself,” says Alex Markus, Chief Executive of City-Lets Ltd.
The more information buyers collect during a viewing, the easier it becomes to compare properties and make a confident decision when the right apartment comes onto the market.