Buying a property is certainly one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. In a competitive market, making a good impression can be just as important as finding the right place. Sellers often have multiple viewers and offers to choose from, so the way you conduct yourself during a viewing can make all the difference. So, what should you avoid? Reddit users have highlighted the common mistakes that can put sellers off, while Karl McArdle, co-founder of The Property Buying Company, shares advice on how to avoid them.
‘House viewings are about more than simply looking around a property,’ explains Karl. ‘Showing respect for the seller and demonstrating that you’re a genuine buyer can help create a positive impression throughout the process.’
1. Opening drawers without asking
It’s natural to want a closer look at all the nooks and crannies of a property, however, opening cupboards and drawers without permission can feel intrusive – especially when people are already living there. One Reddit user said they noticed after a viewing that a cupboard drawer in their infant son's room had been left ajar, which felt like an invasion of privacy.
‘House sellers may request that estate agents accompany viewers into all rooms,’ says Karl. ‘To avoid making homeowners uncomfortable, be sure to ask for permission and have a good reason for doing so.’
For instance, this could be checking the quality of any fitted furniture, which would be included within the sale of the property.
2. Not taking your shoes off
Small gestures can go a long way in showing respect for someone else’s home, especially if they have recently cleaned or have delicate flooring.
‘A simple way of respecting the seller’s home is to offer to take your shoes off when walking around the property, or to use shoe covers,’ Karl says. ‘This helps to prevent any dirt or damage from trailing through the property and makes a good first impression with the seller.’
For those selling, Reddit users recommend buying a box of disposable shoe covers for the hallway and asking the estate agent to give potential buyers the choice between those and shoes off.
3. Failing to show you’re a serious buyer
Sellers want reassurance that the people viewing their home are in a position to move forward if they decide to make an offer. This is why it’s a good idea to show you are qualified.
‘Make it clear that you are either a cash buyer or that you have a mortgage in principle ready,’ explains Karl. ‘This helps homeowners to know that they are not dealing with any time wasters when hosting house viewings.’
This is also useful for estate agents. ‘Why would you show someone a house that isn’t qualified?’ said a Reddit user. ‘If they don’t qualify at all, you’ve completely wasted your time – they may qualify for a different amount and the homes you show them might be a little nicer than they can afford.’
Having your finances organised before you start viewing can make the process smoother for everyone involved.
4. Ghosting the seller after multiple viewings
Returning for a second or third viewing often signals genuine interest, so disappearing without any feedback can be frustrating for sellers. A Reddit user who experienced this said ‘it is bizarre and such time wasting.’
‘If you’ve attended a second or third viewing, it can be frustrating for house sellers if they don’t receive any feedback,’ Karl says. ‘Avoid ghosting the seller and instead provide brief and neutral feedback.’
Even a short response helps sellers understand where they stand and is considered good etiquette. This can be as simple as stating that the property is not the best fit for your requirements.
5. Bringing too many people to a viewing
While it’s understandable to want a second opinion, arriving with a large group or bringing young children can make it harder to focus on the property.
‘Bringing young children to a house viewing can easily become a distraction, which is something you’ll ideally want to avoid for an important purchase,’ Karl explains. Reddit users agree, with one saying, ‘Honestly, I'd find a sitter. This is important stuff, and your attention needs to be on the property and what your agent is telling/showing you.’
If your children are with you, ensure they are supervised to avoid causing any accidental damage to the property.
The same principle applies to large groups – while it can be handy to get the opinions of parents and other family members, it can be best left for follow-up viewings.
6. Asking for too many viewings
Being thorough before making such a significant purchase is especially important. However, repeatedly asking to revisit a house can become inconvenient for the seller. ‘Viewing five times? Complete lunacy,’ said one Reddit user.
‘Whilst sellers will typically accommodate between one and three viewings, beyond this, sellers may become frustrated if no offer is made,’ says Karl. ‘Preparing for a house viewing involves keeping the house spotless, needing to leave home more than usual, and for those showing viewers around themselves, using evenings and weekends.’
To reduce the need for multiple visits, be sure to ask key questions, as well as take photographs (with permission) and measurements, where needed. Making notes and gathering information during your visit can help you avoid unnecessary return trips.
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