1. Why is the owner selling, and how long has the property been on the market?

Understanding the seller’s motivation and the property’s history helps you assess urgency, pricing, and negotiation opportunities.

This simple question can tell you a lot. If the seller is relocating quickly or the home has been sitting on the market for a long time, you may have room to negotiate. Conversely, a recently listed property with strong interest may require a swift decision at or near the asking price. If a home has lingered without an offer, consider asking why, is it the price, condition, or something less obvious? This can be especially useful in a competitive market like Cambridge, where timing and positioning often drive buyer success.

2. What work has been done recently and has it been properly certified?

It’s important to know what changes have been made to the property and whether those improvements meet legal and safety standards.

Has the kitchen been updated? Were walls removed? Has the roof recently been replaced? Don’t just ask about the aesthetics find out whether work was completed professionally and if Building Regulations approval or planning permission was needed. For instance, a loft conversion without proper paperwork might affect your ability to insure, remortgage, or resell the property. In Cambridge, where many homes are Victorian or Edwardian, verifying compliant updates can help avoid costly surprises later.

3. What are the running costs of the property?

Day-to-day expenses can vary dramatically from property to property so don’t overlook them when assessing affordability.

Ask about council tax band, typical utility bills, and service charges if the property is leasehold or part of a managed development. Older homes might be charming, but they’re often less energy efficient and cost more to heat something worth noting in the colder months. New builds, well-insulated, or automated homes may offer long-term savings. Knowing the real cost of ownership helps you budget accurately and compare properties beyond their purchase price.

4. What’s included in the sale?

Clarifying what stays and what goes can avoid awkward assumptions and unexpected costs down the line.

Fixtures and fittings can vary, one seller might include kitchen appliances and wardrobes, while another might take everything, even curtain poles and light fittings. In Cambridge, where many buyers are relocating or moving quickly, the convenience of an “almost move-in ready” property can add value. Ask for a list of inclusions before you mentally commit. It’s also worth checking boundaries, parking spaces, and shared access rights, details that aren’t always obvious on first glance.

5. Are there any known issues or defects and has the property ever been subject to insurance claims?

Ask directly about problems such as damp, subsidence, flooding, or disputes — and listen carefully to the answers.

Legally, sellers must disclose material facts, but only if asked. If you want the truth, be specific. Have there been any problems with leaks, roof damage, electrical issues, or neighbour disputes? Has the property flooded before? Have there been any insurance claims in the past 5–10 years? Some issues, such as historic subsidence, might not be visible but could affect mortgage eligibility. Always follow up with a survey, but start by asking the right questions in person.

6. How does the property feel and does it meet your personal needs?

Take a moment to reflect: does the layout, light, and atmosphere fit your lifestyle and long-term plans?

Beyond the bricks and mortar, a property needs to feel right. Can you imagine working from the study? Are the living areas flexible enough for entertaining or growing a family? Is there outdoor space that feels private? In the fast-paced Cambridge market, it’s easy to focus solely on data, price per square foot, EPC ratings, resale value, but don’t lose sight of how the home will live. Ask yourself questions about your day-to-day life. If the property ticks both logical and emotional boxes, you’re far more likely to be satisfied in the long run.

Final Thoughts

A property viewing is your opportunity to go beyond surface impressions. Don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions this is likely one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. At Citystay Property Agents, we encourage well-informed buyers. We’re here to guide you through the process, answer questions honestly, and help you assess each property on its true merits.