Looking At Open Houses This Weekend? Here Are Some Tips!

When considering purchasing a home in 2024, a common starting point for many homebuyers is attending open houses.  As the pleasant spring weather arrives earlier this year than usual, it gives people thinking about buying a home an excellent chance to dedicate a Saturday or Sunday exploring the homes that are for sale.  Attending these homes lets prospective buyers gain insights into different neighborhoods that may suit them.  It also helps in identifying specific features they may want or not want in a future home, and it provides great information on the pricing trends in the various neighborhoods!

So when visiting open houses, here are some great tips to make the visit a productive one!

WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES

I really want to emphasize this point!  When you're planning to check out about 3 or 4 houses in one afternoon, keep in mind that many of these homes might have stairs that you'll need to navigate.  You may also want to walk in the backyards and walk through the entire house, including any attic or basement spaces if the house has these!  It's important to make sure you feel comfortable while touring these houses, so opt for comfortable clothing and, most importantly, wear comfy shoes!  Your feet will thank you later!

TAKE NOTES ABOUT THE HOUSE

As someone who has shown many houses to buyers in one afternoon, it can be hard to remember everything about the house - both the good and the bad!  Take a small notebook with you and write down everything that strikes you about the house - both good and bad - so that when you are looking at the house later that day or a few days later, you can remember what you liked about the house - and, more importantly, what you didn't like about the house!

DON'T GET DISTRACTED BY THE FURNISHINGS

When the seller has already vacated the house, it can sometimes be easier to envision your own furnishings within the space.  However, if the house is staged, it can provide valuable insights into the potential uses of each room.  Alternatively, if the family has resided in the house for a long time, the furnishings may appear to be outdated, or they may have brought in furniture to stage the house.  Always remember that once the house is sold and the seller has relocated, none of the furnishings will remain.  Therefore, it's important not to be overly distracted by the existing furnishings but instead, to focus on envisioning how your furniture will complement the space.

SIGN IN WHEN YOU GET THERE - LET THE AGENT KNOW IF YOU ARE WORKING WITH A BUYER AGENT

If you are currently working with a Buyer Agent, it is important to let the agent that is hosting the open house know this!  And, if the listing agent asks you to sign in, please feel free to do so.  Many sellers want to know how many people have attended the open house and this is one of the ways that a listing agent can provide feedback to the seller.

LISTEN FOR THINGS THAT COULD BE ISSUES FOR YOU

When you're thinking about buying a house, it's not just about the house itself - it's about the whole neighborhood vibe!  You have to make sure the area feels right for you and your family, not just the house.  So, when you're checking out an open house, keep your ears peeled for stuff that may bug you: like, are the other houses in the area in good shape, is it super noisy or have lots of traffic?  Are there lots of barking dogs or kids running wild?  If any of that sounds like a deal-breaker, this is the time to find out!

ASK QUESTIONS

While you are at the open house, now is a great time to engage with the Realtor holding the house open.  Consider asking about the reasons behind the sellers' decision to move, gain insights into the neighborhood and inquire about the home's construction date!  It could also be beneficial to ask about any recent upgrades or improvements made to the property by the sellers, or the number of offers received.  Other questions to consider may be about the average utility costs, the coverage and fees of the HOA.  Take this opportunity to address any other questions you may have with the Realtor holding the house open.

FOLLOW HOUSE RULES

Always remember that you are in someone else's house, so if the seller has certain requests, please follow those.  It could be something as simple as removing the shoes when you are viewing the house, or putting on the shoe bootie covers.  You may want to stay out of off limit areas.  If you want to take photos or videos, ask the Realtor at the open house if it is okay.

KEEP HANDS TO YOURSELF

When examining the house, feel free to explore cabinets and drawers in places like the kitchen and baths.  However, it is essential to refrain from opening drawers in the seller's desks, chests and dressers.  Additionally, it's best to limit actions such as opening the medicine cabinets and examining the contents.  If you've brought children along, ensure they don't start playing with the seller's kids toys during the open house.  If the owner has pets secured in a yard or a garage or a crate, or even in one of the bedrooms, please respect the rules the seller has put in place for their pets.

DON'T LET THE KIDS RUN AROUND

There will be a lot of people at the open house, and your kids running around could be a distraction to the other people at the open house.

DON'T BROADCAST YOUR OPINION

It's important to recognize that personal preferences vary widely, and what may not appeal to you might be perfect for someone else.  Conversely, if you're enamored with a house and considering making an offer, it's wise to refrain from revealing your enthusiasm until you're away from the property.  Expressing your positive feelings about the house could inadvertently weaken your negotiating stance, as sellers and their agent, may recall your strong interest.  Moreover, it may prompt other potential buyers who initially were undecided to reconsider and submit offers.  And don't forget - many sellers may have small microphones or nanny cams inside the house and they may be watching and listening to everything that is being said.  Be mindful to keep your opinions confidential until you're out of earshot of others and agents.

An open house is a great opportunity to start your house hunt and to see houses and neighborhoods that may be on your short list.  But when visiting an open house, make sure you are prepared to make the most of your visit.  By being prepared, you will leave with a good picture of the house and the neighborhood, helping you make the best decision for you and your family.

And if you are thinking of buying a house and have questions, don't hesitate to contact me.  Let's talk about the real estate market and buying a house!