Viewing a property without even seeing a photo

[MedusasBadHairDay]

Had an estate agent call the other day to say they have a new property on the market, not listed on their site yet, and did we want to arrange a viewing. I asked if there were any photos we could see, and they said no.

We're FTB, so no idea if this is normal? It seems silly to go to a viewing when you have absolutely no idea if the property is even vaguely what you are looking for. They seemed a little cagey with answering questions on room sizes, no actual numbers, just "generous" or "good size".

So, is this normal? Has it ever worked out for you if you sent to a viewing this way?

My advice would be - view everything in your preferred location and in/ slightly over budget. It is the only way to get a sense of what you want.
I think a "blind" viewing is better in a way because you have no preconceived ideas - I looked on street view and drove past when I had the address and so I knew the location was ok at least.

I think if I had seen the particulars for our house first I wouldn't have viewed - I would have dismissed it as being over budget and so lovely that it would quickly go. It did sell quickly but by viewing early I was treated by the agent as a serious buyer.

Yes that's what happened with our first house - we had a good relationship with the EA and they called us up about a new instruction where photos/floorplan hadn't been done yet. We made an offer after viewing it before it went on the open market which the vendors accepted. The market near us is insane at the moment, so if you can get a leg up before the general scramble, it's a good idea!

I did view our present house not even seeing the advert. Dh had organised a viewing and just sent me there. I loved the house and had good rapport with the owner. Dh was travelling the day so we went together next day and offered straight away. The vendor was very patient because we lost three buyers and of course covid. I think that because we got along so well with vendors they waited. They were downsizing and had already bought property.

How old are you children? We’ve taken ours with us to all the viewing as no childcare. They look at the garden and sit in the car watching a movie for the 15 minute we are in the house with a check halfway through with the promise of a bribe at the end plus a visit to the local park. Ours are 7 and 6.

It’s how it used to be done pre internet really. I’d be pleased to get in first, google streetview will give you clues and look at previous sales in the street and see if they have old photos available for an idea of size.

This is very normal - it did work out for me as I saw my flat 10 years ago and liked it . In that case the chain was broken, sellers wanted it sold & agent knew I was actively looking as had other viewings with them

Sometimes EAs mess around getting people in without photos to show they have buyers if they are trying to get the listing (that has also happened to me lately) - so ask a few questions to make sure it meets your needs, but I would go

Also, sometimes sellers will be happy to sell to some of 1st viewers without having to get photos done/ go on RM/neighbours knowing their house is for sale and looking up price etc