Property Viewing Checklist: Free Download

Don't let the fresh paint fool you. Use this checklist to uncover the truth about a property.

The Exterior

• Roof: Any slipped tiles? Is the ridge line straight?
• Gutters: Free of grass/weeds? (Signs of neglect)
• Cracks: Hairline is fine; zig-zag or thumb-width is danger.
• Orientation: Which way is the garden facing? (South/West is gold).
• Parking: Is it designated? Visit at 8pm to see real parking chaos.

The Interior

• Damp: Use your nose. Smell musty? Check behind sofas and in corners.
• Water Pressure: Turn on the shower. Is it a trickle or a blast?
• Windows: Double glazed? Do handles lock? Condensation between panes?
• Floors: Jump in the middle of the room. Does the floor bounce?

The Structure & Systems

• Heating: Gas, Oil, or Heat Pump? Age of boiler?
• Fuse Board: Old ceramic fuses = expensive rewire needed (€8k+).
• Attic: Is it insulated? Is the tank jacketed?

The Area (Crucial!)

• Traffic: Listen in the front bedroom.
• Phone Signal: Check your bars in every room.
• Broadband: Eir/Virgin checker (don't take agent's word).

The Winning Question

Ask the agent: "Why are the vendors selling?"

• Trading up? Good sign.
• Moving locally? Great sign (they like the area).
• Inheritance? Motivated sellers.