Make every property viewing answer a decision

Photographs and descriptions help identify possibilities. A purposeful viewing checks the unresolved questions against the requirements of the people who will occupy or use the property.

Choose the questions before the appointment

Select the three issues most likely to change your decision. These might include the layout, access arrangements or signs that further condition advice is needed. Send factual questions to the agent beforehand and ask which documents can be made available. This keeps the visit focused without assuming every answer will be available on the day.

Record observations separately from assurances

Write down what you saw, what someone told you and what remains unverified. For example, a room appearing large enough is different from a measured floor plan. A verbal statement about works is different from supporting documentation. Ask permission before taking photographs and attach notes to the correct property.

Know when specialist input is needed

RICS describes a home survey as an expert account of a property's condition and recommends choosing the survey level to suit the property. [P1] A viewing can help identify questions for a surveyor; it cannot provide the same assessment. Legal rights, permissions and a proposed specialist use need the appropriate separate checks.

Finish with an action, not a vague impression

After the visit, decide whether to request documents, arrange professional advice, revisit a specific question or remove the property from consideration. Give each unresolved item an owner and target date. Record why a promising property was rejected so the same mismatch does not keep returning to the shortlist.

A good viewing record should make the next conversation easier. Someone reviewing it should understand what fits, what is uncertain and what must happen before a commitment is considered.

• [P1] RICS: House surveys, types and benefits (opens in a new tab)↗. Reviewed 18 October 2026. Source for the survey distinction; the viewing workflow is RD Property Tech's editorial recommendation.