Viewing a House in Derry: Buyer Checklist for 2026

A good house viewing is not just about whether you like the kitchen or the garden. It is your chance to understand the condition, location, likely running costs and sale situation before you decide whether to offer.

Use the same notes for every home you view in Derry or the surrounding area. A simple checklist helps you compare the practical details without relying on a first impression.

Before the viewing

Before you arrive, check the listing details carefully. Note the asking price, number of bedrooms, heating type, parking, garden space, Energy Performance Certificate rating if available and whether the property is chain-free or occupied.

Also check the location. Think about school runs, commuting, public transport, parking, local shops, healthcare, noise and how the area feels at different times of day.

Questions to ask during the viewing

Useful questions include:

• How long has the property been on the market?

• Has there been much interest?

• Are the sellers buying onward?

• What is included in the sale?

• Have any offers been made?

• Has any major work been carried out?

• Are there known issues with damp, roof, heating or electrics?

• What are the typical running costs?

You do not need to interrogate the seller. But you do need enough information to make a sensible decision.

What to look for inside

Look beyond furniture and decoration. Check room sizes, storage, natural light, heating, windows, signs of damp, cracks, uneven floors and the general standard of maintenance.

Open cupboards if appropriate, look around window frames and ask about the age of the boiler, electrics and roof. If something feels unclear, make a note and ask the agent to clarify after the viewing.

What to check outside

Outside the property, look at the roofline, guttering, pointing, driveway, garden drainage, boundaries, access and neighbouring properties. A tidy exterior does not guarantee the property is perfect, but poor maintenance outside can signal future costs.

Parking is also worth checking properly. Some streets are easy during the day but busy in the evening.

After the viewing

Write down your first impressions while they are fresh. Score the property on price, location, condition, layout and resale potential. If you are interested, arrange a second viewing rather than relying on memory.

If you want to offer, speak to your mortgage adviser and solicitor early so you know your position.

A viewing record you can actually compare

Create one note for each property, with the address, viewing date and asking price at the top. Then use three labels: seen, told and still to check. This keeps an observation separate from an answer that needs paperwork or professional advice.

For example, 'space for one car visible' is an observation; 'the adjoining space comes with the house' is something to confirm. Record the precise question and who will answer it. Do not treat an estate agent's answer as a substitute for your solicitor checking the legal position.

Keep four short headings underneath: daily life, condition, documents and sale position. Add what matters to you under each, such as furniture measurements, an unexplained mark on a wall, consent for an extension or the seller's onward plans. Mark an unanswered item as unknown, not satisfactory.

Give the second viewing a purpose

Choose the questions that could change your decision before booking again. Take the measurements you missed and check the location at another time where practical. Ask permission before taking photographs and do not open equipment, enter unsafe spaces or attempt tests yourself.

nidirect's viewing guidance recommends daylight visits and, where possible, returning at a different time. Use that visit to close gaps in your notes, not to diagnose defects. Pass unresolved condition questions to a surveyor and title or consent questions to your solicitor.

Frequently asked questions

How many times should I view before offering?

Many buyers offer after one strong viewing, but a second viewing is useful if you are unsure or the property needs work.

Should I bring someone with me?

Yes, if possible. A second pair of eyes can spot practical issues you may miss.

Do I still need a survey?

Yes. A viewing is not a survey. Always take professional advice before completing a purchase.

What if I spot a problem?

Ask for more information. Some issues are minor; others may affect your offer or decision.

Next step

If you are house hunting in Derry and want practical guidance before offering, contact James Gorman Property. You can also read the house hunting checklist and first time buyer guide.