Real Estate Crash Course – Step 5: Viewing

Attend viewings and inspect properties

Before the Viewing

Check sold prices: Check what similar properties in the area actually sold for ("slutpris"). Learn the market.
Google the address: Forum posts, news, complaints. Good to know before you view.
Public viewing: Open to everyone, just show up at the listed time ("öppen visning").
Register interest: Contact the agent ("mäklare") to get updates and viewing invites.
Private viewing: Separate viewing ("privatvisning") if you can't make the public one, or to get ahead. You can bid before public viewings, but expect to pay a premium to skip the bidding war.
Sign the attendance list: Usually required to participate in the bidding ("budgivning").

Why is the seller moving?: Can reveal urgency or problems.
How long on market?: Long time can mean problems or room to negotiate.
What's included?: Appliances, lamps, fixtures. Ask clearly.
Known issues or defects?: The agent must disclose known defects.
When does the seller want handover?: Can affect your planning and negotiation. Handover date ("tillträde").
Recent renovations — permits needed?: Unpermitted work ("svartbygge") becomes your problem.
Houses: inspection, utilities, leasehold, easements?: Ask if inspection ("besiktning") is done, municipal or private water/sewage ("VA"), leasehold ("tomträtt"), or easements ("servitut").

Water damage, cracks, mold, smells: Check under sinks, around bathrooms, ceiling spots. Signs of bigger problems. Trust your nose.
Windows: Drafty? Single or double glazed?
Noise: Listen for neighbors, traffic, building sounds.
Water pressure: Run the taps.
Electrical outlets: Enough? Modern?
Common areas: Stairwell, entrance, basement, laundry room ("tvättstuga"). Condition and vibe.
Houses: Roof, drainage, basement moisture, heating. Check age and condition.

Take notes and photos immediately: You'll forget details quickly.
Revisit at different times: Evenings, weekends. Different noise and vibe.
Request a second viewing: If you're serious, look again with fresh eyes.
Order your own inspection: For houses, do this before you bid. Get your own inspection ("besiktning").
Talk to neighbors: They know what it's really like to live there.

Step 5 of 8