First impression key for impulsive house hunters

People in the UK as a whole tend to look at 4 to 6 properties, while Londoners on average view between 5 and 7 before making a purchase.

There is a particular danger of homes in the capital being snapped up quickly, forcing those who miss out to search for longer.

Ian Williams of Ocean Finance said: “It’s quite shocking that so many people spend less time on choosing their new home than they would watching EastEnders or Coronation Street.

“Issues like damp or poor light can be difficult to spot in the evening. Likewise, what might seem like the dream property could turn out to be a nightmare once the neighbours come home in the evening!”

Statistics also revealed that young people take most care when choosing a home, as 41% of those aged between 25 and 34 check out properties during day and night.