1. Make a Good First Impression
- Be on time – aim to arrive 10 minutes early. This shows respect for the landlord or letting agent.
- Dress neatly – a clean, comfortable appearance shows you're serious.
- Stay calm and genuine – show interest without going over the top. A sincere attitude often works best.
- Use your time wisely – arriving early gives you a chance to explore the neighbourhood.
2. How to Conduct Yourself During the Viewing
- Stay professional – focus on relevant points like property condition, rental terms, and costs.
- Be friendly and polite – a positive impression can work in your favour.
- Introduce yourself – a brief personal intro helps build rapport.
- Come prepared with questions – this shows genuine interest and helps you make an informed decision.
3. Useful Questions to Ask
Here are some helpful questions you can ask during the viewing:
- What is the exact rent, and what’s included (gas, water, electricity, internet)?
- Are there any additional costs, such as service charges or municipal taxes?
- How is maintenance handled, and who is responsible for what?
- Are pets allowed?
- Can I make modifications to the property, like painting or drilling?
- What is the property’s energy rating?
- How’s the parking situation and access to public transport?
- Are any renovations or construction works planned?
- What is the minimum rental period?
Tip: Bring a copy of your ID, payslips, and employer’s reference. This shows you’re serious and well-prepared.
- Check for additional expenses like council charges (waste, sewage, etc.).
- Use comparison websites (e.g. Keuze.nl) to estimate monthly costs for energy and internet.
- Spread yearly costs over 12 months to get a clearer view of your actual monthly budget.
5. Don’t Be Put Off by Competition
- Stay calm – if there are other viewers, it simply means the property is in demand.
- Be ready – many candidates respond slowly or unprepared. Acting quickly and being well-organised gives you a real advantage.
- Consider multiple viewings – partner up with a housemate or partner to view several homes more efficiently.
Did you know? With Stekkies, you can add a search buddy; making it easier to track and divide viewings.
6. How Long Does a Viewing Take?
Viewings usually last 20 to 30 minutes. Make the most of that time by asking key questions, taking a good look at the property (inside and out), and gathering important information.
- Who’s giving the tour? Whether it’s the landlord, agent, or current tenant can shape how you ask your questions.
- Ask the current tenant about their experience — think maintenance, neighbours, noise, and communication with the landlord.
- Look for damage – check walls, taps, windows, and floors for visible wear or issues.
- Be practical – measure rooms, take photos (if allowed), and jot down notes for later comparison.
- Stay focused – don’t ask questions already answered in the advert. Instead, prepare a list of meaningful questions.
In Conclusion
A viewing is much more than a walk-through. With good preparation, relevant questions, and attention to detail, you’ll increase your chances of landing the right rental home.
