Why Property Viewing Skills Can Save You Thousands
After 15 years of accompanying clients to property viewings across Singapore, I can confidently say that most buyers do not know what to look for during a viewing. They notice the obvious things like layout and finishes but miss critical details that could mean tens of thousands of dollars in repair costs or years of frustration.
Before You Step Through the Door
Research the Development
Before viewing, check the development’s completion date, developer track record, maintenance fee history, and any known issues. Condo management meeting minutes can reveal ongoing problems like water leakage, lift issues, or disputes that affect living quality and property value.
Check Recent Transactions
Review URA caveat data for recent transactions in the same development and, ideally, the same block and floor range. This gives you an objective benchmark against the asking price.
Visit at Different Times
Schedule viewings at different times of day. Morning viewings reveal sun exposure and natural light conditions. Evening viewings show noise levels from traffic and nearby establishments.
The Exterior and Common Areas
Lobby and Corridors
Examine the lobby, lifts, and corridors for cleanliness, maintenance standards, and general upkeep. Cracked tiles, peeling paint, and non-functioning lights suggest deferred maintenance, which could mean higher special levies in the future.
Facilities Assessment
Test the facilities during your visit. Are the pools clean? Is the gym equipment well-maintained? The quality of facility maintenance reflects the management corporation’s effectiveness.
Car Park and Security
Drive through the car park to assess lighting, ventilation, and lot sizing. Check security features including CCTV coverage, access controls, and guard station staffing.
Inside the Unit: The Critical Checklist
Water Pressure and Plumbing
Turn on every tap and flush every toilet. Low water pressure, slow drainage, or unusual noises indicate plumbing issues that can be expensive to fix. Check under sinks for signs of leakage, water staining, or mould growth.
Electrical Systems
Test every light switch, power outlet, and air conditioning unit. Flickering lights, non-functioning outlets, or unusual humming from the electrical panel are warning signs.
Walls and Ceilings
Examine walls and ceilings carefully for cracks, water stains, and uneven surfaces. Hairline cracks in plaster are generally cosmetic, but cracks running diagonally from window and door frames could indicate structural movement.
Windows and Doors
Open and close every window and door. They should operate smoothly without sticking, gaps, or excessive force. Check window seals for deterioration.
Flooring
Walk across every area of flooring listening and feeling for hollow spots, uneven surfaces, or creaking. Hollow tiles are common in Singapore properties and can worsen over time.
The Smell Test
Your nose is one of the most valuable inspection tools. Fresh paint or air freshener during a viewing should raise your suspicion, as these can mask mould, dampness, or other odour issues. Pay attention to musty smells in bathrooms, chemical odours indicating pest treatment, and drain smells suggesting plumbing trap issues.
Environmental Factors
Natural Light Assessment
Observe the quality and quantity of natural light. South-facing units in Singapore generally receive the most consistent natural light, while north-facing units enjoy cooler conditions. West-facing units bear the intense afternoon heat.
Noise Evaluation
Stand quietly in each room for at least 30 seconds and listen. Can you hear traffic? Construction? Neighbour noise? Persistent loud noise will affect both your quality of life and the property’s rentability.
Ventilation and Airflow
Open windows and assess the natural airflow. Good cross-ventilation can significantly reduce air conditioning costs. Corner units and units with windows on multiple walls typically enjoy better airflow.
The Neighbourhood Walk
- Walk to the nearest MRT station and time the journey to verify advertised distances
- Identify nearby amenities including supermarkets, clinics, schools, and hawker centres
- Check for potential nuisances such as construction sites or industrial activities
- Observe the neighbourhood demographic and activity level at different times of day
- Look for signs of infrastructure improvements that could affect property values
Red Flags That Should Give You Pause
- Persistent musty or chemical odours that ventilation does not resolve
- Visible mould on walls or ceilings, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens
- Significant cracks in structural walls or columns
- Evidence of pest infestation including droppings, damage, or live insects
- Water stains that appear recent or recurring despite reported repairs
- Unusually low asking prices compared to comparable units
- A seller who restricts which areas you can inspect or times you can visit
A thorough property viewing takes at least 45 minutes. If you are spending less time than that, you are not looking carefully enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I hire a professional inspector for a property viewing?
A: For resale properties, especially older ones, engaging a professional building inspector is money well spent. Inspection fees of $300 to $500 are minimal compared to the cost of undiscovered defects.
Q: How many times should I view a property before making an offer?
A: I recommend a minimum of two viewings: one initial assessment and one focused follow-up. If possible, view at different times of day.
Q: What should I bring to a property viewing?
A: Bring a tape measure, a phone for photos and videos, a small torch for checking dark spaces, and a notepad. A marble is useful for checking floor levelness.
Q: Can I bring someone else to a second viewing?
A: Absolutely. Bringing a trusted friend, family member, or contractor provides fresh eyes and potentially expert perspectives.
