Property Viewings – What You Need to Know
Many of you will be attending property viewings over the next couple of months in order to secure your flat for next semester. It can feel as though there’s a never-ending list of things to look out for when viewing a property, and for many of you, this might be your first time dealing with property viewings leaving you unsure where to even begin! Here, we’ve picked out our top recommendations of things to consider at a property viewing to make sure you pick your perfect flat.
Ask questions
This is the perfect time to find out everything you need to know about the property from the letting agent showing you around. Most student flats get snapped up quickly, so there may only be one chance to view it.
Take someone with you
Always try to take someone with you to a property viewing, ideally one of your flatmates! It can be a tough job being the one with the responsibility of picking the property – what if your flatmates don’t like it? Bringing someone else with you gives you a second opinion to help you with your decision.
Speak to the current tenants
This might not be possible, but if the tenants are home while you are viewing the property it’s a good idea to ask them their opinion on the property (and the letting agent!). Ask them what they like most and least about the property to get a first-hand view of the flat you might soon be calling home.
Consider the neighbourhood
Does the neighbourhood seem safe? How far is it from university? If you are not within walking distance to university, make sure there are public transport links within close distance. Luckily for us, Edinburgh has a fantastic public transport system and most city centre streets are within easy reach of bus, or even tram, stops. You should also make sure there are plenty of amenities nearby such as shops, ATMs and, for those hungover days, a great choice of takeaways!
Look for any signs of damage
Spotted a hole in the wall? Is the bathroom covered in damp spots? Make sure you discuss with the letting agent any concerns you have and ask them to confirm if the damage will be fixed before you move in.
Which furnishings are here to stay?
Find out what is included with the flat and what isn’t. Is the extra sofa you love the look of a deal breaker? Make sure it is included with the flat before you sign on the dotted line. Tenants sometimes add their own furniture and furnishings to the property, and if it isn’t listed on the property’s inventory then they will probably take it with them when they move out!
Act quickly
With xx students competing for one property, don’t underestimate how quickly the property will let. Many people will make a snap decision during the property viewing and decide if they want to apply for it – people have been known to even rush off in the middle of a viewing to the letting agent’s office to apply! At Cullen Property, we try to ensure our process is as fair as possible and will invite those interested in the property to stay behind after the viewing. There will then be a fair ballot and three winning groups will be able to submit application forms.
We have 80 properties, ranging from two-bed to six-bed, available to view this month. Click here to view our property viewing schedule. There’s no need to book our property viewings – just turn up on the date/time listed!