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Viewings play a crucial role in the property selling process. Understanding their importance and how to prepare for them can help ensure a smooth sale.
Why Viewings Matter
Buyer Confidence
A thorough viewing, or even two, provides buyers with confidence in the condition of the property. It can help reassure them that there are no hidden issues.
Negotiation Tool
Viewing results can be used in negotiations. Buyers might request repairs or a price reduction based on the findings. This is why we always recommend doing a quick spruce-up before going on the market.
Legal Requirements
In some cases, home inspections may be required by law or mortgage lenders to ensure the property meets certain standards. These are more often carried out by professionals, like surveyors.
Common Inspection Areas
Depending on the level of the survey being carried out, the following may be checked:
- Structural Integrity – Surveyors may check the foundation, roof, walls, and other structural elements for signs of damage or wear.
- Plumbing and Electrical Systems – These systems may be examined to ensure they are functioning properly and meet safety standards.
- Heating and Cooling Systems – The efficiency and condition of heating and cooling systems are evaluated, including boilers, radiators, and air conditioning units.
- Insulation and Ventilation – Surveyors may check for adequate insulation and ventilation, which are crucial for energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
Preparing for a Viewing or Surveyor’s Visit
Declutter and Clean
A clean and tidy home makes it easier for buyers to see themselves in the space. It also helps surveyors to access all areas. Clear any clutter from attics, basements, and around mechanical systems.
Make Necessary Repairs
As aforementioned, address any known issues beforehand. Fix leaky taps, replace broken windows, and ensure all systems are in good working order.
Provide Documentation
Have records of any recent repairs, maintenance, or upgrades available for the viewer, whether that’s a potential buyer or a surveyor. This can demonstrate that the home has been well-maintained. You’ll need them anyway to give to your solicitor so it’s useful to be prepared.
During the Inspection
Be Cooperative
Cooperate with the surveyor by providing access to all areas of the property. Be prepared to answer any questions they may have. Viewings for potential buyers are best carried out by your estate agent whenever possible. They have a relationship with those viewing the property and can help direct their attention to the features that will most appeal to them.
Stay Calm
Viewings and surveyor visits can be stressful, but try to stay calm. Remember, most homes have some issues, and not all of them will be deal-breakers.
After the Viewing/Visit
Feedback
Your estate agent will pass on any constructive feedback from the potential buyers or pass on any offer they’ve made. A surveyor will produce a report. Most of the time, the buyer is the client for these (unless you’re in Scotland) so you are unlikely to find out the details. If you are made aware of any details or when you receive the Home Report (as it’s known in Scotland), it can be wise to discuss any findings with your estate agent and decide how to address any issues.
Negotiate if Necessary
Be prepared to negotiate with the buyer based on their viewing or the report results. This might involve making repairs, offering a price reduction, or providing a credit towards repairs.
Viewings, the Home Report, and surveyor visits are all normal parts of selling a property. By understanding their importance and preparing adequately, you can help ensure a smoother sale and build buyer confidence in your home. For support going through all these elements of selling your property, get in touch. We can have a chat about how we can support you, with no obligation.
