10 Points to Consider When Viewing a House

Embarking on the journey to find your dream home involves more than just admiring beautiful photos—it's about uncovering the hidden realities that could impact your investment. From understanding the intricacies of homeowners' associations to checking for potential asbestos or moisture issues, our guide reveals the crucial elements you must investigate during a property viewing to ensure you're making a wise decision.

You're looking for a new home and have already done a lot of research on potential buyers. You've finally found one that meets your needs, and a viewing has already been scheduled. So, soon you'll actually be viewing the property.

Viewing a property

The photos made everything look perfect, but what will it be like in reality? The following 10 points are important for every viewing.

1. Is there a homeowners' association (VVE)?

If you're buying an apartment, inquire about the Homeowners' Association. They often have minutes that detail matters that could be important to you as a future owner, such as noise pollution.

2. Check for asbestos

If you're buying an older home that could potentially contain asbestos , ask the seller if they can provide an asbestos-free certificate. Otherwise, you'll be running a significant financial risk.

3. The furnishing of the house

Are the bathroom and kitchen still up-to-date and to your taste? Replacing or renovating them would be a costly undertaking.

4. How old is the boiler?

Always inquire about the age of the central heating boiler , a new boiler can easily cost €2,000 and when buying a house it is wise to keep an eye on what additional costs you can expect in the near future.

5. What are the monthly costs?

Inquire about the monthly energy costs, which also say a lot about the quality of the insulation.

6. When will the house be available?

Does the seller already have a new home? Feel free to ask, and it often makes negotiating easier.

7. What about the facilities?

Any real estate agent will tell you that location and nearby amenities are a major factor in property value. Judge this for yourself.

8. How long has the house been for sale?

How long has the property been on the market? The answer to that question can be very telling. Is the asking price perhaps too high, or are there reasons why this property isn't popular?

9. Don't be shy at the viewing

Don't be shy about thoroughly inspecting areas like crawl spaces and basements. A musty smell could be due to inadequate ventilation, but it could also be caused by moisture problems.

10. Also pay attention to the frames

Wooden window frames are beautiful, but also vulnerable. If the wood is soft and warped, there are risks.

Building inspection provides certainty

You're probably not a building expert and can't adequately check all the above points yourself. We can tell you all about a building inspection and its benefits. Contact us or request an inspection .

Would you like to make an appointment for a building inspection?

The cost of a building inspection (up to 250 m²) is only €489 including VAT. We'll conduct a comprehensive building inspection and you'll receive a building report. Do you have any questions? We're happy to help and can schedule an appointment with an expert inspector right away if you wish!

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