What Every Buyer Is Secretly Looking for When Viewing a Property

Last Updated on April 17, 2025

Let’s be real. Most buyers decide whether they like a property within the first few minutes of stepping inside. Sounds harsh, but it’s true. If you’re selling, it helps to know what people are actually paying attention to. And if you’re buying, it’s nice to feel like you’re not the only one noticing those tiny details. Here’s what most people are looking for when they view a home.

First Impressions Count

You know how you size someone up the second you meet them? It’s the same with houses. The front door, the pathway, the garden if there is one — it all matters. If the front of the house looks scruffy, it puts people on the back foot straight away. Tidy up the outside, clean the windows, maybe even add a plant pot or two. It doesn’t need to be fancy. Just clean and cared for.

Natural Light

Everyone wants a bright, airy home. It doesn’t matter if it’s a flat or a house, natural light makes a huge difference. People will open curtains, peek around blinds, and check which direction the windows face. So if you’re selling, open up the curtains before viewings and clean the windows so they sparkle. If you’re buying, pay attention to when you’re viewing because a place can feel completely different in the morning versus the afternoon.

Windows

It might not be the first thing buyers mention, but windows are a big deal. People will quietly check for condensation between double glazing, flaking frames, or stiff handles. If the windows look like they need replacing, they’ll start mentally deducting costs from their offer. That’s why window replacement can be such a smart investment before selling. On the flip side, new windows can be a massive selling point, especially if they help with energy efficiency.

General Condition

Most people aren’t looking for a full renovation project. Sure, there are exceptions, but generally speaking, buyers are hoping for something they can move into without too much hassle. They’ll notice things like peeling paint, cracks in the wall, stained carpets, and dodgy DIY jobs. It’s not about being picky. People just want to feel like the place has been looked after.

Storage Space

Buyers are nosy. They will open cupboards and built-in wardrobes. Everyone’s wondering if their stuff will fit, and whether they’ll have space to grow into. Cluttered storage makes a home feel smaller, so it’s a good idea to clear out as much as you can if you’re preparing for viewings. If you’re viewing places, try to think beyond the furniture — focus on how the space could work for you.

Kitchen and Bathroom

These are the two rooms that can make or break it. Buyers always check how modern or clean the kitchen and bathroom are. It’s not necessarily about having the most expensive fittings, but things need to feel fresh and usable. A dated but spotless kitchen can still feel inviting. A grimy one won’t.

Overall Feel

While people are looking at all the practical stuff, they’re also trying to picture themselves living there. Does it feel comfortable? Could they see themselves having a cuppa in the kitchen or relaxing in the living room? That emotional connection is often what seals the deal.