We didnt do a reccie. I did everything from the uk found a job place to rent talked to schools for my 2 kids and came out found a long term place to rent within 2 weeks just before I started work. The first 2 weeks out we enrolled the girls in school found a house to rent infact hubby and kids viewed it when I went for my first day in work and then I bought a car. So from my experience I dont believe u need a to do a reccie.