Top 10+ red flags buyers must look out for when viewing a home

Prospective buyers only spend an average of 43 minutes viewing a property before they put in an offer. But it pays to take your time, research suggests - crucially, buyers should not feel rushed into making a decision without carefully kicking the tires of any home they're interesting in buying. Below, we reveal the 10 problems most prospective buyers forget to check when viewing a property, and later regret, according to exclusive research from e.surv.

10 red flags buyers must look out for when viewing a home

Nearly two-thirds of those surveyed by Censuswide commissioned by e.surv said they would take a more 'rigorous' approach when viewing and home a home next time. Fifteen per cent of the 2,000 people quizzed said they checked nothing at all properly in a property before putting an offer in. Meanwhile, 43 per cent said they uncovered problems with their property within four months of moving in. Below, e.surv outlines 10 red flags to watch out for when viewing a property.

1. Windows and doors

Windows that will not close properly, draughts sneaking in through loose frames, and locks that don’t quite feel secure are all easily missed during a viewing. Yet these are all issues that could be spotted by simply opening, closing, and giving fittings a once-over before putting an offer in. Poor windows and doors were the most commonly missed issues during home viewings, according to the research.

2. Hidden renovation costs

A fresh coat of paint can mask a multitude of sins. For some buyers, what looked like a move-in ready home turned out to need costly renovations. These unexpected works are often invisible at first glance but can add significant, unplanned expenses to the final bill. Failing to spot to see where hidden renovation costs will crop up is the second most common issue missed during viewings.

3. Damp and mould

It might start as a faint smell or a discolored patch on the wall, but for over a quarter of buyers, damp and mould only became apparent after the keys were handed over. Beyond the cosmetic damage, these problems can lead to long-term structural issues and even health risks if left untreated. Take your time to spot and ask about any damp or mould issues. Getting a comprehensive survey done before buying will also help reveal any problems.

4. Heating and boilers

A quarter of homeowners surveyed said they encountered heating problems shortly after moving in, often related to ageing systems or underperforming radiators. Asking a few questions about the boiler’s age and recent servicing history might save a few freezing evenings and expensive repairs or installations.

5. Electrical problems

Electrical issues are among the more expensive fixes, and often do not reveal themselves until the property is lived in. During a viewing, ask about the electricals, and consider getting a professional to check the wiring. It's also worth making sure the property has good broadband provisions, particularly if you work from home.

6. Plumbing issues

Low water pressure, hidden leaks and failing pipework can all go unnoticed during the whirlwind of a property viewing. A quick test of the taps or a flush of the toilet could highlight some early red flags. Resolving leaks, ailing pipeline and sorting out low water pressure can be very costly.

7. Roof trouble

Broken tiles, leaks, and general wear and tear can go undetected until a heavy rainstorm hits or a surveyor flags an issue. During a viewing, it is essential to ask how old the roof is to get a sense of how it should be holding up. Getting a new roof or even getting it partially fixed can be very expensive.

8. Gardens and outdoor spaces

The outdoors can be an afterthought, but it was a source of regret for over a fifth of homeowners, according to e.surv. A thorough walk around the outside of the property can reveal more than expected, whether it’s boggy earth, overgrown bamboo, boundary issues or a sunless garden. You need to be sure any outdoor spaces will suit your needs and lifestyle. If for example, you're looking at a property with a north-facing garden, and think you'll miss your evening glass of wine sitting outside in the sun, think about whether it really is the right property for you.

9. Structural problems

Cracks on walls or floors are not always a dealbreaker, but it could be a sign of something more serious, and it is worth getting them checked. Fifteen per cent of buyers encountered structural problems after moving in that were not noticed during the viewing phase. You also need to be alert to any subsidence issues.

10. Noise trouble

Noisy neighbors, traffic or thin walls can make life difficult in the long-run. During a viewing, pay attention to nearby roads or pubs, and drive by the property at different times of day and at night. You can also try having a viewing in the evening to get a better sense of what it's like to live at the property. Estate agents are required to report any negative issues that may affect the buying decision under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading regulations.

James Ginley, director of technical surveying at e.surv, said: 'A home is the biggest purchase most people will ever make, and yet market pressures or misunderstandings about the purchasing process are leaving buyers overwhelmed with property issues and costs they simply weren’t prepared for.' He added: 'The viewing – or, ideally, viewings – are the time to really imagine yourself living in the home. The way you feel when you walk in is important, but equally crucial is the details that can lead to bigger problems down the road. 'You can’t return a house once you’ve bought it – take the time to go into it with eyes wide open.'

Want more stories like this from the Daily Mail? Visit our profile page and hit the follow button above for more of the news you need.