Getting the most from Attending an Open House

Attending an open house can be a wonderful way to find out if you like a home and would like to make an offer on it. However, you may feel a bit intimidated by all of it. Here are ways you can get the most out of the experience. Make sure you adhere to the times of the open house, don’t show up 15 minutes before it is over. Give yourself plenty of time to check it out. If you can’t make it during the open house hours, you need to schedule an appointment.

Dress Comfortable

Be aware of your comfort when it comes to what you wear. Do not show up at an open house in your tracksuit pants, but there is no need to dress up either. Be comfortable and wear shoes for walking inside and out. It is best not to wear noisy shoes that echo through the home as you explore. You want to be able to check out the garage and the yard too.

Meet the Host

Take the time to introduce yourself to the host at an open house. This may be an agent or it could be the owners of the home. Typically, they will be by the front door to greet those coming in and to thank those leaving for stopping by. You don’t have to feel obligated to make an offer or to stay if the home isn’t what you are looking for.

If you have questions, the host is the person to converse with. If they are very busy with people coming and going, it can be hard to get their undivided attention. You can tell them you are interested and ask if you can schedule a time to talk. When you do, do not criticise the home and there is no need to give them too much information about your own personal situation. You can share with them the type of home you are looking for and even the price range if you like.

Ask Permission

You may be interested in taking photos or a video of the home so you can review them later. Never assume it is fine to do this. You should always ask the host for permission. It is very rare they will decline your request, but you should always get their approval first before you do this. You don’t have to ask for permission to open up drawers or closets at an open house. However, make sure you are doing so for the sake of the home buying experience and not out of curiosity.