5 things to check before planning a home visit

Are you thinking of visiting a home for sale? We recommend checking certain information with the owner first.

Answers to the following questions will give you a better idea of what to expect and the conditions of sale. That way, you can avoid unnecessary visits and perhaps some disappointments.

1. Is the property still for sale?

First, check if the property if still for sale. It’s a formality, but the owner may have accepted an offer to purchase and just needs to meet the notary before making the sale official.

In this case, the property will only be listed as sold once the conditions of purchase have been met and the transaction has been completed.

2. When will the property be available?

It’s important to find out whether the possession date the owner is thinking of suits your needs. Do you need to move in quickly? Or can you wait a few months before moving into a new home?

Knowing the owner’s intentions will avoid any unpleasant surprises. You may be disappointed if you find out the owner can’t move for whole year.

3. Can I check some important information?

Confirm that the information in the property listing is accurate: the asking price and number of bedrooms, for instance. For a condo, ask about the co-ownership rules and whether it’s a divided or undivided co-ownership.

Then ask about features you can't see in the photos, such as storage space and the neighbourhood atmosphere.

4. Has an inspection been conducted?

Ask the owner if an inspection has been conducted. If so, what did it reveal? If you find out that the property is in poor condition, you may reconsider visiting. If additional costs are needed, it’s better to know beforehand. You can then decide if the property is the right fit despite the work that needs doing.

5. What’s the best time to visit?

Visit the property when it looks its best. For example, if it has a lovely view in daylight, go before dark. You’ll see all its strong points.

Satisfied with the answers? Then read our list of questions to ask, to make sure your visit is as efficient as possible.