With the August Bank Holiday approaching, it’s likely that house hunters will want to use the long weekend to explore new properties. But to ensure that buyers get the most out of their visit, we’ve drawn up five top tips to consider when viewing a home.

Be prepared

Think about what you are looking for in your new home, it's good to have a clear idea before you start looking. What features will you require; a certain number of bedrooms, a garden, car parking? Have a list of essential and desirable criteria to help your estate agent match you with the perfect home.

Make the most of the Sales Advisers and Estate agents

They are there to help and really know their stuff, so make the most of them! Why not book an appointment and allow an Adviser to show you around various homes as well as taking a tour by yourself? They'll be able to point out features which match your needs. Don't be afraid to ask questions and get the information you need.

Evaluate the space

Try to picture how best to use the rooms in the show homes to your advantage – you may have no need for a study, but the room could make an excellent den for teenagers instead. Think about how the space would work for your own family and lifestyle.

Bring the family along

Everyone has a favourite part of the house, whether it's the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom or garden, and your thoughts might be different to your partner's. Everyone will have their own opinion on how you will live in your new home, so it is important that you all share your ideas on how your new home will work for you.

Look at the bricks and mortar

It’s an exciting time and can also provide a little interior design inspiration, but as well as admiring the décor, also consider the actual build of the property when you look around.

Buying a new home is often the biggest single investment a person will make in their lifetime. Bank Holidays are the perfect time to take a look around a number of homes, so we've drawn up these five tips to help people to get the most out of their visit. But remember to take your time and get some help from people who really matter.