Viewing Tips: 12 Things to Look For Before Buying a House

# Viewing Tips: 12 Things to Look For Before Buying a House Viewing a home often only takes 20-30 minutes. Yet, it's *the* moment to discover hidden problems. These 12 tips will help you make a stronger decision. ## 1. Come back at different times A house that's quiet in the morning might be located on a busy arterial road in the evening. Plan at least two viewings at different times of the day. ## 2. Check the foundation and crawl space Ask if you can look in the crawl space. Look for moisture, cracks, white efflorescence on walls, and wood degradation. Foundation repair can easily cost €50,000+. ## 3. Look at the roof (inside and out) Roof tiles, lead flashing around the chimney, gutters. A new roof costs €8,000 - €20,000. ## 4. Test all faucets and water pressure Open multiple faucets simultaneously. Poor pressure indicates calcified or narrowed pipes. ## 5. Ask about the meter cupboard Old fuse box with fuses = often needs replacement (€1,500 - €2,500). Ask if there are residual current devices (RCDs). ## 6. Check the central heating boiler How old is it? A boiler lasts 15-20 years. Replacement: €2,500 - €3,500. ## 7. Energy label and actual consumption Ask for the average gas and electricity consumption of the past 2 years. Actual consumption tells more than the label. ## 8. Windows and frames Tap on the frames — hollow sound = possible wood rot. Check if windows open smoothly. Double glazing? ## 9. Moisture and mold Smell when you enter (especially basement/bathroom). Look behind furniture in corners. Paint stains can camouflage moisture problems. ## 10. HOA documents for apartments Ask for the annual accounts, MJOP (long-term maintenance plan), and minutes of the last general members' meeting. An empty reserve fund = impending major expenses. ## 11. Zoning plan and surroundings Check ruimtelijkeplannen.nl to see what's planned in the neighborhood. A planned highway, high-rise buildings, or industrial estate can depress your property value. ## 12. Bring someone along Preferably a structural engineer or a buying agent. Four eyes see more, and a professional can detect problems you might overlook. ## Doubting a property? Have a **structural inspection** done (€400 - €600) before making a final offer. Or have a buying agent accompany you to the viewing. [Read more about our buying service](/aankoopmakelaar).