A significant portion of potential home-buyers spend less than 20 minutes viewing a property before making an offer, according to a recent study. In a trial conducted in Ruislip, new eye-tracking software was used to help buyers avoid common pitfalls associated with quick decision-making in home-buying.
Instead of focusing on crucial aspects such as the condition of the boiler, water pressure, or signs of damage or damp, participants in the trial were found to be more interested in items that wouldn’t even be included in the property upon moving in. Surprisingly, during the full tour of the house, the least attention was paid to flooring, the roof, and the ceiling.
In some rooms, home-buyers didn’t even glance at radiators for more than half a second, despite their importance in a home’s heating system. This behavior was consistent with the findings of a research study conducted by Zoopla among 2,000 homebuyers who had attended house viewings in the last five years.
The research revealed that only half of prospective homebuyers bothered to check the boiler, while a significant portion neglected to inspect for damp or condensation. Daniel Copley, a consumer expert at Zoopla, emphasized the importance of thoroughly inspecting all elements of a property to avoid potential issues and expenses in the future.
To assist buyers in making informed decisions, Zoopla offers various online tools, including filters, to help them find suitable properties. Lily Mace, a senior sales consultant at Coopers Residential, expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with Zoopla to enhance the home-buying and selling experience for clients.
The results of the trial and the broader research shed light on the need for home-buyers to conduct a comprehensive inspection of properties before making an offer. By utilizing technology and online resources, buyers can make more informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes in the home-buying process. It is essential for both buyers and sellers to prioritize thorough property inspections to ensure a successful and satisfactory real estate transaction.