What to look for at a viewing: 12 points buyers often miss

Go in prepared

A viewing often lasts only half an hour. Study the listing photos beforehand and write down which rooms you want to look at more closely.

A condition report helps: per room you see which points of attention are visible in the photos.

Outside

Look at the roof (shifted or broken tiles), the gutters, the brickwork joints and the window frames. Peeling paint and soft spots in wood are signs of overdue maintenance.

Inside

Watch for damp patches on ceilings and walls, especially near the bathroom, kitchen and under windows. Use your nose too: a musty smell can point to damp.

Open cupboards and look behind furniture if allowed. Ask about the age of the central heating boiler and the condition of the meter cupboard.

Questions for the agent

Ask about the age of installations, recent maintenance and whether there is an owners' association (VvE) with a long-term maintenance plan.