Whether you go with or without a buying agent, viewing a property is not something you do every day. That’s why good preparation is half the battle, because it will make your viewing a lot easier.
"}},{"componentType":"accordion","accordionList":[{"title":"1. Take someone with you when going on a property viewing","richBody":{"value":"Whether it’s your partner, a family member or a friend, they may just spot something you missed. If you decide to engage a buying agent, you will have an expert by your side to guide you during the viewing.
"}},{"title":"2. Give yourself plenty of time to look around","richBody":{"value":"Check the paintwork, windows, frames, taps, toilets and kitchen cupboards: does everything work properly? Any leaking taps? Will the central heating boiler need replacing soon? Check for damp, small holes in the woodwork and cracks in the walls. Take your time to check everything, even if there are ten other potential buyers around.
"}},{"title":"3. Take pictures and notes","richBody":{"value":"When you get home, you’ve probably forgotten a lot of what you saw, especially when you go on several viewings within a short time span.
"}},{"title":"4. Check the things you can’t see","richBody":{"value":"If there is something seriously wrong with the property, such as wood rot in beams, the seller (or selling agent) will be required to tell you. But you also have a responsibility to make your own inquiries, so make sure you ask whether the house has any issues and find out about the condition of things you can’t see, such as the drainage system, the foundations or the roof. A simple damp patch may be a sign of much bigger problems.
"}},{"title":"5. Ask about the energy label","richBody":{"value":"Pay attention to things such as insulation and ventilation, and check what the current owner has already done to make the property more sustainable. This will become increasingly important. Besides, you'd prefer not to live in a stuffy house or have sky-high energy bills, right?
"}},{"title":"6. Don’t just look at the property itself","richBody":{"value":"What’s the local area like? Are there any shops and schools nearby? And other facilities that are important to you? How about access to public transport and parking?
"}},{"title":"7. Keep your cool","richBody":{"value":"If you’re immediately excited about the property during the viewing and can see yourself living there, it’s best not to show it. It will undermine your negotiating position.
"}}]},{"componentType":"highlight","title":"We’re here for you","richBody":{"value":"Considering putting in an offer? It’s common for buyers to want to be sure they haven’t missed anything before they put in an offer. We’re here for you then too. Make an appointment for a call or call your mortgage adviser directly to quickly run through everything.
Don’t worry, this call is included in our service. You won’t be charged any advisory fees for it. And you're not committing to anything yet either.
"}}]},"legalZone":{"flexComponents":[{"componentType":"paragraph","title":"Good to know","richBody":{"value":"The English text of the website is a translation of the Dutch original version. This translation is intended for the customers convenience only. In case of any discrepancies between the two versions, the original Dutch version shall prevail. The mortgage offer and contract will be signed in Dutch. Also, all further communication after signing the mortgage contract will be in Dutch. You acknowledge and accept this. If any assistance or clarification is needed, we recommend contacting your mortgage advisor or to call our customer service via the ING app.
"}}]}}}