Auction Property Viewing Checklist

Ever felt the thrill of bidding on a property at auction? It’s like a rollercoaster—full of excitement but with a few twists and turns you didn’t see coming. But here’s the thing: winning a bid is only half the battle. The real challenge is making sure the property you’ve set your heart on is worth every penny. That’s where our handy viewing checklist comes in.

I once knew someone who bought a charming little cottage at an auction. It was love at first sight, but once the excitement wore off, they discovered the roof was on its last legs. The repair bill? Let’s just say it was an expense they hadn’t budgeted for! That’s why it’s so crucial to give the property a thorough once-over before you raise that paddle or click on that button.

Preparing for Your Viewing

When you head to an auction property viewing, don’t forget your tape measure and camera. These might seem like small things, but they’re absolute lifesavers. Imagine getting home and realising you’ve forgotten the dimensions of that tiny box room—or worse, you can’t remember whether the crack in the wall was hairline or something more worrying.

Also, bring along the property details from the auctioneer. Sometimes, things look a little different in person than in the glossy photos. Plus, you’ll want to double-check that all the information they’ve given you is accurate. After all, no one likes surprises, especially the costly kind!

Exterior Inspection

First things first—let’s start outside. The exterior can tell you a lot about what’s going on behind the scenes. Take a good look at the roof. Are there any missing tiles? Does the gutter look like it’s seen better days? If you’re viewing after a storm, keep an eye out for damage that could hint at bigger issues. A friend of mine learned this the hard way after buying a property post-downpour, only to find out the roof was leaking like a sieve.

And don’t forget to check for signs of subsidence. Cracks in the walls, uneven door frames, or fences that look like they’ve had a bit too much to drink—these could all be signs that the ground beneath the property is shifting. Catching this early can save you from a nightmare down the road.

Interior Checkpoints

Now, let’s step inside. The boiler and heating system are your best friends in winter, but they can be a real pain if they’re not up to scratch. Flick the heating on for a few minutes—does it warm up nicely, or does it sound like it’s trying to take off? Trust me, you don’t want to move in during a cold snap only to find out the boiler’s on its last legs.

Electrics and plumbing are another biggie. Are the lights flickering like you’re in a horror movie? Is the water pressure in the shower more of a trickle than a torrent? These might seem like small things, but they can hint at bigger problems lurking in the background. I once walked into a property where the electrics were so outdated it looked like something out of a 70s time warp. Fixing it all up wasn’t just a hassle; it was a pretty penny too.

Documentation Review

Before you get too carried away with visions of how you’ll decorate, ask to see copies of any guarantees or service certificates. You’ll want to know that the boiler, roof, or any other big-ticket items are covered. It might seem like a boring bit of paperwork, but having these documents can be a lifesaver down the line.

Imagine this: You’ve just moved in, and the boiler breaks down. Without a service certificate, you could be looking at a hefty bill. But with the right paperwork, you’re covered. It’s these little things that make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

As you’re wrapping up your viewing, take a moment to double-check your notes and snap a few more photos. It’s easy to miss something in the excitement of the moment, but a quick review can save you from second-guessing yourself later on.

Remember, it’s better to be overly cautious now than regretful later. Buying a property at auction is a big deal, but with the right prep, you can bid with confidence, knowing you’ve covered all your bases.

Ready to find your dream auction property? Download our checklist and take it with you to every viewing. It’s your trusty sidekick in making sure your auction experience is a win from start to finish.

P.S. Don’t forget to take your tape measure and your camera! Click here to download the auction property viewing checklist form