Successfully planning a viewing of an inherited property
There are currently many people interested in property. Worries about whether a suitable buyer can be found for your inherited property are therefore unfounded. However, the high demand also brings challenges: many enquiries quickly lead to a flood of interested parties, not all of whom have serious intentions to buy. To avoid having to organise unnecessary mass viewings, you should take a targeted approach and both invite suitable candidates and prepare the viewing professionally.
The first steps have been taken: your advert has attracted attention and interested potential buyers. Now it is crucial to continue in a structured and targeted manner in order to save time and effort. Below you will find our tried and tested tips for a successful viewing.
1. ask the right questions
From the very first contact, you can check whether they are seriously interested. Ask specific questions: Has the financing already been secured? Has the bank made a positive preliminary enquiry? Such questions will give you a quick insight into the seriousness of the prospective buyer. It is also helpful to ask about the potential buyer's requirements for the property - does your property even meet their wishes? This preliminary clarification saves time and energy and is one of the tasks that experienced estate agents routinely undertake.
2. plan the tour
A well-structured tour leaves a lasting impression. Determine the order in which the rooms are shown and think about which special features should be emphasised. Tip: Save the highlight of your property until last, as the last impression will be remembered for a particularly long time. A property expert can help you to organise the tour professionally.
3. prepare rooms
Keeping your property neat and inviting is the be-all and end-all. Declutter rooms, clean thoroughly and consider minor renovations such as painting walls. Less is often more when it comes to decoration: do without personal items such as photos or seasonal decorations. A cosy atmosphere can be created with pleasant fragrances - fresh coffee or home-baked cake often work wonders.
4. communicate defects openly
Be honest: If there are defects such as damp cellars or mould, actively address them. Honesty creates trust and prevents problems later on. In addition, serious defects should be noted in the purchase contract to avoid legal disputes.
5 Caution is better than forbearance
Remember that strangers enter your home. Store valuables safely to prevent misunderstandings or problems.
6. personal customer contact
As the owner, you know your property best and can answer questions from prospective buyers most effectively. Your personal presence signals commitment and leaves a positive impression. However, if you have little time or experience, a professional estate agent can take on this task for you.
7. provide important documents
A professional viewing also includes the provision of relevant documents. Interested parties should be able to take these with them:
- Floor plans of the property
- Site plan
- Land register extract
- Energy certificate
- Service charge settlements
- Information on refurbishments
- A detailed exposé
8. time to look around
After the tour, give prospective buyers time to view the property at their leisure. Stay close by to answer questions and set clear deadlines for feedback to keep the process efficient.
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Robert Schüßler
Property valuer (EIA and IHK)
Note: This article is for information purposes only and does not replace legal advice. Please consult an expert if necessary.
