There is no doubt that we live in a wonderful age where pretty much everything we want is at our fingertips, and there is nothing you can’t get delivered to your front door. You can spend night after night scrolling through Rightmove and Zoopla searching for your dream home, and while it’s possible to buy a home completely online, just because you can does not mean you should.

Virtual viewings are an awesome introduction to a property. If you already know the area and you are simply looking for a great flat to let, then perhaps you will never need to carry out a physical viewing. They are a great way to dream and check out all the homes you know you can’t afford to buy!

But there is no substitute for the sensory adventure that begins as soon as you see the home you want. It’s the difference between dreams and reality.

Sensory Experience
Yes, buying a new home is a big decision, but it is also an exciting and adventurous feast for all your senses. Entering a property that feels like home is a unique and amazing feeling to savour. There is no substitute for the tactile world of wood and stone and the visual feast that will greet you and witness some of your most precious memories. The scents of the garden, the vision of your new life, the plans for decoration—that special feeling you get that you can’t explain yet for some reason you know it’s home.

Valuable experience
Let’s not overlook the obvious. Agents sell homes for a living and are a great ally. Drawing on years of experience to guide you and point out things you may not notice after having absorbed your requirements and desires. It’s a comforting feeling knowing you have an expert on your team.

Do you really want to deal with buyers directly?
Your time is precious, and agents can liaise with buyers for you. It’s also a good thing to have an experienced person dealing with offers from buyers who may make a few cheeky offers!

Checking out the neighbourhood
It’s important to get to know the neighbourhood and surrounding areas. You want to make the right decision and enjoy the peace of mind and fulfilment that come with loving where you live.

Test your agent
A face-to-face viewing or valuation with your agent not only gives you the chance to test out how you feel about certain properties but also to get a thorough valuation. It’s a chance to see your agent in action and become inspired, informed, and gain from their knowledge. A good agent will get on board with your vision for moving and help you achieve your property goals.