Mastering Home Buyer Viewings
When it comes to purchasing a home, the process can be both exciting and overwhelming. Once you have navigated your financing for a new home, one crucial aspect that plays a significant role in making the right decision is the home viewing. This step allows potential buyers to get a firsthand look at the property and assess whether it meets their needs and preferences.
To ensure a successful and informative home viewing experience, consider the following tips.
1. Prepare a Checklist:
From your purchasing parameters that you previously outlined, you should have a good idea of the types of homes and neighbourhoods you’re interested in. Before embarking on actual home viewings, create a checklist outlining your priorities and preferences. This will help you stay organized and focused during each visit. Consider the factors you previously outlined as important to you, and ensure you are staying true to those priorities.
2. Do Your Research:
Before attending a viewing, research the neighbourhood and the property itself. Look into local amenities, school districts, and any other priorities you have on your checklist. Knowing this information beforehand will give you a better understanding of the property’s overall value and whether it aligns with your lifestyle.
3. Take Your Time:
Rushing through a home viewing can lead to oversight. Take your time exploring each room, paying attention to details like natural light, storage space, and potential maintenance issues. Feel free to ask questions and request additional information if you have any specific questions about the home.
4. Consider the Surroundings:
Beyond the property’s four walls, consider the surrounding environment. Take note of neighbouring properties, the noise level, and accessibility to essential services. This holistic approach ensures that you evaluate the entire living experience, not just the house itself.
5. Visualize Your Life in the Home:
Try to envision yourself living in the home. Many homes are staged for listing and don’t necessarily showcase how the current sellers utilize the space themselves. Consider how your furniture will fit into the space, and think about potential modifications or improvements you could do to make the space your own. This will help you determine whether the property aligns with your lifestyle and future plans.
6. Document Your Impressions:
After each viewing, document your impressions. You will likely receive a property specification listing sheet from your Realtor and you should take a few minutes after each viewing to take some notes of your impressions. Create a record of the pros and cons of each property, along with any concerns or questions that arise during the visit. Sometimes you will easily be able to rule out a home, but this documentation will be valuable when it comes time to compare and make a final decision for your purchase.
7. Repeat the Process:
Viewing multiple homes allows you to compare options and refine your preferences. Don’t settle for the first property that meets some of your criteria; explore various options to find the best fit for your needs and lifestyle.
8. Protocol for Buyer Home Viewings:
Remember that when you are viewing potential properties you are going into someone’s home. Sellers welcome this opportunity for you to look at the home but you should be respectful of the sellers space and adhere to certain protocols:
- Should you not feel well the day of the showing, or possess any symptoms, please call to cancel in advance of the showing.
- Please remove outdoor footwear upon entering. And try to wear socks to avoid walking barefoot through home.
- If you will be touching cabinets or doors, you should sanitize hands and/or wear gloves prior to entering the home.
- It is preferable to not have children at the initial showing. However, if children are present, have them hold an adult’s hand and not touch anything in the home.
- All parties should stay together, and with the showing Realtor, when viewing the home
- Only decision makers should be at the showing, and ideally limited to 2-3 adults.
- Do not use any of the washroom facilities during the showing.
Mastering the art of home buyer viewings involves a combination of preparation, patience, and attention to detail. By following these tips and approaching each viewing with a clear mindset, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and find the home that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and preferences.
Happy house hunting!
If you’re considering making a move in the future, or purchasing a home in the area, let’s chat! You can reach me at 519-824-9050 ext. 235, email me, or connect with me on social media. Let’s get started on turning your dreams into an address!
CONNECT WITH FRANCES here:
Home Buyer Series – MASTERING HOME BUYER VIEWINGS
Guelph Real Estate Gal Blog 