by Propertyportal 
When searching for your ideal property—whether it’s a studio apartment for rent or a house to buy—knowing how to conduct a successful house viewing is essential. A well-prepared viewing can save you time, help you make informed decisions, and prevent costly mistakes in the buying process. Use this guide to plan for your property viewing and ensure you leave no stone unturned.
1. Plan Your Viewing Time Carefully
The time of day can greatly impact your viewing experience. When scheduling, consider times of day when you can best observe natural light, which varies between morning and afternoon. Aim to view the property during different periods if possible, including rush hour, to get a true feel of the area and gauge road noise or the ease of road parking.
Another factor to bear in mind is public transport links. A property near reliable transport links, such as a bus route or train station, could be convenient for those who rely on public transportation. Make sure you plan your viewing at times when traffic conditions reveal any potential issues on reaching nearby transport hubs.
Bring a House Viewing Checklist
Having a house viewing checklist on hand ensures you won’t overlook essential details. Include items that will help you assess the overall property condition, such as storage space, water pressure, and the state of major fixtures. You may also want to assess nearby parking spaces and communal spaces if you’re considering a studio apartment for rent or a leasehold property.
Some key items to include on your checklist:
- Water pressure: Check all taps to ensure adequate water pressure.
- Power sockets: Confirm the presence and functionality of power and shaver sockets.
- Natural light: Observe how much sunlight each room receives.
- Storage space: Ensure there’s enough storage for your needs.
- Structural integrity: Look for major cracks, loose roof tiles, or signs of flaky plaster.
Bringing a tape measure can be helpful to assess square footage, and don’t forget to inquire about the service history of major systems like the fuse board or extractor fans.
Look Out for Potential Issues
Identifying potential issues early on is essential, especially for first-time buyers who may not be familiar with common property concerns. During your house viewing, inspect walls for hairline cracks, major cracks, or broken tiles, which could signal structural issues or underlying problems with the property type. Similarly, observe any flat roofs for signs of wear, which can indicate issues with insulation or energy efficiency.
Another crucial factor is the property’s energy performance. An energy performance certificate (EPC) can give insight into energy efficiency, which can help reduce long-term utility bills. A property with double glazing, cavity wall insulation, and other energy-saving features is often more energy efficient, potentially lowering your monthly payment on energy bills.
Assess the External and Communal Spaces
For those considering properties with shared spaces, inspecting communal spaces is just as important as viewing the private property. Check for well-maintained outdoor spaces, and if the property has any swimming pools or gardens, look at their condition and verify if there’s any additional charge for upkeep.
When viewing individually-titled properties or strata-titled properties, be sure to evaluate outdoor spaces and the condition of the neighbouring property. Well-kept communal spaces signal attentive management, while signs of neglect could lead to added costs or issues later on.
Evaluate Functional Aspects of the Property
When viewing any property, from a terraced house to a studio apartment, assess functional aspects that could impact daily living. Start by checking for working plug sockets, a functional fuse box, and an efficient extractor fan in the kitchen. Confirm that there’s hot water available, especially if you’re visiting during off-peak hours when heating systems may be less active.
Other important features include parking availability, road conditions, and nearby transport links. If you drive, check whether there is designated parking space or road parking available. Good parking options and transport links near your chosen property type can save you both time and stress over the long term.
Check these functional aspects during the viewing:
- Hot water: Confirm hot water is accessible throughout the property.
- Double glazing: If present, this feature can contribute to energy savings.
- Fuse box and power sockets: Check for both functionality and availability.
- Loose tiles and roofing: Look for signs of roof damage or broken tiles.
Make Note of the Property’s Price Range and Potential Costs
When considering a property, it’s essential to account for more than just the property price. For Malaysian citizens, government programs like Residensi Wilayah can make certain properties more affordable. However, whether you’re looking at sub-sale property or new developments, always calculate both upfront payment and monthly instalments within your buying budget.
Be aware of any annual service charge, additional payments, or maintenance fees that may apply to the property type. Factoring in these expenses can help ensure you stay within your financial limits and allow for a realistic investment decision.
Seek Professional Advice When Necessary
If you’re uncertain about aspects like structural integrity, consider hiring a real estate agent or a professional to conduct a house survey. Consulting experts can provide a more thorough assessment of structural issues, which is particularly helpful if you notice signs of flaky plaster, major cracks, or other red flags during your viewing.
Moreover, consulting an estate agent can help you navigate specific requirements, such as leasehold property agreements, investment decisions, and potential legal aspects associated with strata-titled properties. For Malaysian residents, additional information on legal property considerations can be found on the Malaysian government’s official property website.
Conclusion: Ready to Find Your Ideal Property?
With this guide, you’re prepared to conduct a successful house viewing and make an informed decision on your property purchase or rental. By covering everything from the time of day to the house viewing checklist, you can avoid making spot decisions and feel confident in your choice.
For more information or to book a property viewing, contact Explore Malaysia and let our team help you find the right home.
