Immediate pathway · viewing coming up
You have a viewing coming up. What should you actually check?
A viewing is your best chance to gather evidence beyond photos and a floorplan. Use this route to arrive prepared, ask useful questions on the day, and avoid choosing on presentation and first impressions alone.
This pathway explains how to prepare for and get the most from a viewing in England. It is education, not a property search service or a substitute for a professional survey.
Your route
Five lessons, in a sensible order.
Open each lesson for the explanation, questions and checklist. Every link is part of the full 48-step journey.
- 1
Before you book anything
Your Future Home
Separate needs from wants and understand freehold and leasehold before you fall for a property that does not actually fit.
- 2
Before you book
Understand Listings & EPCs
Read photographs, floorplans and EPCs critically so you only spend viewing time on properties worth it.
- 3
When booking
Book and Attend Viewings
Secure a viewing promptly and plan the questions you will ask on the day, rather than relying on the agent's narrative.
- 4
During the viewing
View Like a Pro
Inspect systematically using the same checklist for every property so you can compare candidates fairly afterwards.
- 5
After viewing
Choose Your Home
Compare candidates using evidence, monthly costs and your real priorities rather than first impressions.
Practise the decision
Freehold or leasehold — does it change what you should ask?
Try this before your next viewing, then open the full lesson for more detail.
Practise the decision
A leasehold flat looks perfect on paper. What should you check before viewing?
You have shortlisted a leasehold flat that fits your budget and location. The listing does not mention the remaining lease length, service charge or ground rent.
Questions to carry with you
Keep the conversation useful.
Take these questions to the agent or seller. You do not need to know the answer before you ask.
- If leasehold, what is the remaining lease length, service charge and ground rent?
- Why is the seller moving, and how long has the property been on the market?
- What is included in the sale — fixtures, fittings and white goods?
- Has planning permission been sought for any visible extension, loft conversion or nearby development?
After the viewing
Learn what happens once you decide to offer.
If this property is still a contender once you compare it against others, understand how offers work before you make one.
Open the offers phase