How to View and Filter Like a Pro

How to View and Filter Like a Pro

So, you're mortgage ready and know exactly what you need. That's the hard bit done! Now we get to the fun part: the search. But searching for a home can quickly become overwhelming if you don't know how to filter like an expert and what to look for at a viewing. We’re here to help you turn frantic browsing into targeted, effective house hunting.

Filtering the Right Way


Beyond the Basics. Don't just filter by price and number of bedrooms. Use the online listings to assess the lifestyle the home offers.

Look at the Media:
Every Courtyard listing is presented with clean photography and portrait video. Use the video to "experience the flow and layout of a space" before you even book a viewing. If the video highlights lifestyle features like gardens, kitchens, and open-plan areas, you know it’s likely a good fit.

Filter by Location:
Are there location images showing village streets, schools, or parks? Remember, you're not just buying a house, you're buying a life in Warrington or one of its lovely surrounding villages.

Ignore the Jargon:
Read the descriptions carefully. We promise plain-English descriptions with no filler or sales jargon. If a listing is full of fluff, move on.

The Viewing Checklist: Facts Over Feelings
When you step into a house, it's easy to get swept away by emotion. But smart buyers focus on gathering facts to support that emotion.

Beyond the cosmetics, ask yourself these expert questions:


The Big Picture: Does the overall layout work for your family's daily life?


  1. Condition Check: What is the condition of the windows and the boiler? What is the roof like? These are the major costs an algorithm or pretty picture won't show you.
  2. Neighbourhood Feel: What is the street like at different times of day? (A viewing allows you to assess the real community feel.)
  3. Damp and Drainage: Don't be afraid to look closely at corners and external walls for signs of damp or issues with drainage.

Talking to Your Personal Agent

Use the viewing as a chance to talk honestly with your personal agent. Because you deal directly with one named agent throughout , they are there to give you advice from someone you trust.

Your agent knows which homes sell fastest, which buyers are waiting, and how to negotiate the strongest deal. Ask them about local demand and their honest thoughts on the property's longevity. That consistency and insider knowledge makes all the difference.


Get in touch with us

Thinking of selling your family home but waiting for spring? You might be surprised to learn that early winter offers unique advantages for vendors. Let's explore why this often-overlooked season could be your golden opportunity.

Considering selling your family home and aiming for the best possible price? Our exclusive 'Heads Up' strategy is designed to create intense buyer competition from the outset, ensuring your property launches with a competitive edge and achieves an outstanding outcome.

We are absolutely thrilled to share some truly fantastic news: Courtyard has been honoured with the prestigious Gold Winner award for Warrington (East) at the British Property Awards 2025! This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our clients and community.

It is the classic Culcheth dilemma. You love the village, the kids are settled in school, and you have great neighbours - but the house is bursting at the seams.