The process of buying a home can be a lengthy one. The countless hours you spend educating yourself on industry jargon, researching areas, agonising over images of properties, alongside actually moving in, probably number in double digits.
Which is why it’s so surprising that the average Brit will decide whether they want to buy a home or not within 30 minutes of viewing it in person.
However, when it comes to buying a new car or sofa, it can take up to three times longer!
The findings of a recent survey found that the average home hunter will make up their mind within 30 minutes of a viewing, with 24% of those asked claiming they knew whether or not they liked a property within 10 minutes or less.
The modern prospective buyer has a wealth of tools at their hand to prepare themselves for a viewing. With the help of a few google searches, they can compare values of properties in the area. They arrive at the viewing fully prepared to make a decision, with only a visual confirmation of the property needed to push them over the edge.
Like us, the idea of only spending 30 minutes on a viewing probably makes you feel a little panicky. Here’s a few tips on what you should try to accomplish in that half hour.
• Don’t Rush – We appreciate that this is your 20th viewing in the space of a week, but make sure you take the time. Talk to the agent to get an expert view of the home.
• Check how much space you have – Considering you could very well be moving from another country, it’s important you ensure you have space for all your worldly possessions. If you need to downsize your possessions, at least you’ll be saving on shipping!
• Take a stroll around the area – Take the time to get to know the neighbourhood. Visit the amenities, chat to your potential neighbours if you’re feeling sociable.
• Maybe consider another half hour? – One viewing is rarely enough. You should consider several viewings to try and get the property ingrained in your memory.
