Viewings go fast. Memory is unreliable. Couples often remember different things about the same property. This module gives you a structure for every viewing so you can compare properties fairly and make decisions based on evidence, not impression.
How to approach viewings
Book at least two viewings of any property you're seriously considering - at different times of day if possible. Morning viewings miss what the area is like at 6pm on a Friday. Visit on foot and by car. Walk to the nearest supermarket, the train station, the school. Spend 20–30 minutes in the area, not just the property.
Go to the first viewing with emotion switched on - do you like it? The second viewing, take the checklist and be systematic. Look at what the building is doing, not just what it looks like. Water damage, damp, structural cracks, and poor extensions are the things that turn manageable purchases into expensive problems.
Ask how long the property has been on the market. Anything over 3 months in a normal market is a red flag worth investigating. Either the price is wrong, something came up in a previous buyer's survey, or there's something about the property that's putting people off. Find out which before you fall in love with it.
Property details
Property viewing record
Viewing checklist
What to look at - and look for
Tick each item as you check it during the viewing. Add notes where needed.
Structure & exterior
Roof - any missing tiles, sagging, visible repairs?Ask age of roof. Replacement costs £5,000–15,000+
Gutters and downpipes - blocked, leaking, or damaged?Cheap to fix but can cause damp if ignored
External walls - cracks, bulging, or repointing needed?Diagonal cracks can indicate subsidence - flag for surveyor
Windows - double glazed? Any misting between panes?Misted glass = failed seal, needs replacing
Damp proof course visible? Any evidence of rising damp?
Extensions - do they look well-built and integrated?Poor extensions can affect mortgage and insurance
Inside the property
Damp or mould - check corners, behind furniture, under windowsThe smell is often the first indicator before you see it
Ceilings - any staining, cracks, or evidence of leaks?
Boiler - age, type, last service date, make and model?Ask for boiler service records. Replacements cost £2,000–4,000
Electrics - consumer unit (fuse box) type and age?Old fuse boxes may need upgrading - flag for surveyor
Water pressure - run a tap, flush the toilet
Storage - adequate for your needs?
Mobile signal and broadband availability in the area?Check Ofcom checker before viewing
Parking - sufficient, included, or chargeable permit?
Natural light in main rooms - which way does it face?
Local amenities - supermarket, GP, transport links?
School catchment area (if relevant)?Check on the school's admissions policy, not the agent's claim
Questions for the agent
What to ask
Question
Answer / notes
How long has it been on the market?
Have there been any previous offers? Why did they fall through?
Why is the seller moving?
Is the seller in a chain?
What's included in the sale? (fixtures, fittings, white goods)
Has the property had any insurance claims?
What are the council tax band and monthly bills approximately?
If leasehold: years remaining on lease, service charge, ground rent?
Your verdict
Gut check & scorecard
Score this property out of 5 on each dimension. Be honest - not what you hope it could be, but what it is.
Dimension
Partner 1 score (1–5)
Partner 2 score (1–5)
Notes
Location
Size & layout
Condition
Value for money
Gut feeling
Before you move on
You have a complete record of every property you've viewed
You've systematically checked structure, interior, and the area
You've asked the right questions of the agent
Both partners have scored the property independently
You've decided whether to proceed - and at what price
Educational worksheet only. Not financial advice. The Investing Couple is a personal finance content brand. For mortgage, legal or financial advice specific to your situation, speak to a qualified adviser.