A first-time buyer's checklist
Before you view, get a pre-approval or at least an indication of what a bank will lend you, and set a budget that includes transfer costs and moving.
Decide what you must have and what is nice to have: location, size, parking, security, schools, commute. Visit the area at different times of day.
At a viewing, ask about the levies and rates, why the owner is selling, any damp or roof problems, and which certificates are in place. Take photographs and notes for each property.