Walking through a property is your best opportunity to evaluate whether it's right for you — before you commit financially. A systematic approach helps you spot issues that aren't visible in photos, ask the right questions, and make more confident decisions.
Before You Arrive
Preparation makes inspections more productive. Review the listing photos and floor plan carefully before attending. Note anything that looks unusual or isn't shown. Check the suburb median price and comparable sales so you can assess whether the asking price is reasonable.
- Print or save the floor plan — bring measurements if you have specific furniture in mind
- Check Google Maps for nearby amenities, transport, and any potential issues (flood zones, flight paths)
- Research recent sales in the street and suburb
- Prepare a list of questions for the agent
Exterior: First Impressions Matter
The exterior reveals a lot about how a property has been maintained. Walk the full perimeter if possible.
- Roof condition — look for cracked, missing, or broken tiles; sagging or rusting gutters
- Walls — check for cracks, especially at corners and around windows (may indicate subsidence)
- Foundation — look for visible cracks or unevenness at ground level
- Drainage — note whether the land slopes toward the house (moisture problems) or away from it
- Fencing, shed, and outbuildings — check for decay, termite damage, or structural issues
Interior: Room by Room
Be methodical inside. Open every door, cupboard, and window. Run taps and flush toilets. Check light switches and powerpoints.
- Ceilings — water stains, cracks, or sagging indicate roof or plumbing leaks
- Walls — damp patches, peeling paint, or mould indicate moisture intrusion
- Floors — soft spots in timber may indicate termite damage; check tiles for cracks
- Windows and doors — ensure they open and close smoothly (warped frames indicate movement)
- Kitchen — check under the sink for leaks; test appliances if included
- Bathrooms — look for silicone failures, mould, and wet area tile cracks
- Hot water system — check age and condition (replacement costs $1,000–$2,500)
Questions to Ask the Agent
Agents are obligated to disclose known defects. Ask directly:
- Why is the seller moving? (Understanding motivation helps in negotiations)
- How long has the property been on the market?
- Has there been any history of flooding, leaks, or structural issues?
- What are the council rates, water rates, and strata levies (if applicable)?
- Are there any planned developments or infrastructure changes nearby?
- What fixtures and chattels are included in the sale?
Want an Expert Eye at the Inspection?
Our buyers' agents can attend inspections with you and flag potential issues before they become costly surprises.
