An open house is a scheduled period when a property for sale is made available for public viewing without a prior appointment. Attending these viewings offers prospective buyers a valuable opportunity to evaluate homes in person and gain a tangible sense of the space. This guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to maximize this experience and gather the specific information necessary for informed decision-making in the home buying process.
Preparing for the Visit
Before visiting any property, dedicate time to reviewing the official listing details to set realistic expectations for the viewing. Note the published price, total square footage, annual property tax history, and any applicable Homeowners Association (HOA) fees. Researching recent sales of similar properties, known as comparables or comps, in the immediate vicinity provides important context for the asking price.
Logistical planning is also important for an efficient visit. Map the route and plan to arrive on time to use the viewing period fully. Bring a physical notepad and pen for immediate impressions, as relying solely on memory can lead to forgotten details later. Having a fully charged phone ready allows for taking discreet photographs of specific features, provided the agent permits it.
The Open House Experience: Arrival and Atmosphere
Upon entering the property, visitors are typically directed to a sign-in sheet, which serves primarily as a method for the listing agent to generate future sales leads. While providing accurate contact information is customary, understand that the agent hosting the open house represents the seller’s interests. They are there to highlight the property’s positive attributes and answer general questions, not to act as your personal advocate.
The environment can vary significantly from quiet to extremely busy, requiring a flexible approach to the walkthrough. If the house is crowded, maintain patience and move systematically rather than lingering too long in one area, allowing others access. Focus on using your time efficiently by prioritizing the areas you need to see most clearly.
Pay attention to the volume of other visitors present, as this offers an early indication of the market’s level of interest in the specific property. A high volume of engaged visitors may suggest the potential for multiple offers and a quick sale, which can influence your subsequent decision-making timeline.
What to Look For During Your Walkthrough
The walkthrough should begin with assessing the property’s natural light and overall spatial configuration. Observe how sunlight enters the rooms and note the size and placement of windows, which impacts the home’s ambiance. Evaluate the flow of the layout, considering how easily one moves between common areas like the kitchen, living room, and dining space.
Next, examine the condition and age of major systems and appliances, as these represent significant future costs.
Inspecting Systems and Components
Visually inspect the furnace or air conditioning unit for recent maintenance stickers or signs of excessive rust.
Note the manufacturing date printed on the water heater tank.
Check the roof’s visible condition from the ground for missing shingles or excessive moss growth, which can indicate deferred maintenance.
Briefly turn on faucets to check water pressure and the speed of hot water flow, indicating the efficiency of the system.
If possible, flush a toilet to confirm proper drainage and function.
Storage capacity is another practical element to scrutinize, as insufficient space can negatively impact daily living. Open non-private spaces like pantry doors and linen closets to gauge their depth and shelving configuration. Additionally, examine the condition of surface materials, such as the wear on flooring, the state of the paint, and any visible signs of water stains on ceilings near bathrooms or exterior walls. Finally, listen actively in each room for external noises, such as traffic or neighborhood activity, which may not be apparent during a brief visit.
Essential Open House Etiquette
Maintaining respect for the seller’s privacy and belongings is important during any open house viewing. Visitors should refrain from opening drawers, cabinets, medicine chests, or any closed storage spaces that contain personal items. These areas are not part of the property evaluation and should remain untouched out of courtesy.
If attending with family or companions, keep all conversations about the property quiet and contained, avoiding any loud commentary or specific negotiation strategies that could be overheard. Children or pets, if brought along, must be closely supervised to prevent accidental damage or disruption to the viewing experience for others. Finally, be mindful of the agent’s time and limit direct questions to those that cannot be answered by reviewing the listing materials.
Next Steps After Leaving the Property
Immediately after leaving the property, review your notes and photos while your impressions are still fresh. Organize a pros and cons list based on your personal priorities and the specific details recorded during the walkthrough.
If you are working with a buyer’s agent, contact them promptly with specific feedback regarding your interest level and any concerns that arose. Your agent can then communicate with the listing agent to ask clarifying questions about specific details, such as the age of the roof or the reason for a recent price adjustment. This allows for a formal line of inquiry without placing direct pressure on you, the visitor.
Based on your notes and the agent’s follow-up, determine whether the property warrants a second, private viewing. A second viewing allows for a more focused and leisurely inspection. The decision to pursue an offer should only be made after confirming the property aligns with your financial and lifestyle needs, using the detailed information gathered at the open house as a foundational evaluation.