Open House Advice 

Before getting into the open house process, I would highly recommend staying in an Airbnb in that area for about a week. This way you can see what it’ll be like to live your life there, such as your commute to work, any favorite restaurants nearby, where the closest hospital is in case of an emergency, and what the school district is like if you have kids and what that commute looks like. These things can really help put into perspective what your life will be like in that area (whether it’s a new city or a part of town) before you look at homes and attend open houses. 

Reasons why you should attend an open house and how they are helpful: lets you look around the house without having to schedule an appointment, you’re able to see how many other people are interested in the property so you can gauge how high the competition will be, you can compare home values, and you can create a list of what you like or would change to see if the investment is worth it in the long-run. 

What to do before the open house so you’re prepared: 

● Get mortgage pre-approval (Proves you’re a serious buyer and is often required before your offer can get approved). 

● Research the market. 

● Pull the listing online and read the description and disclosed history (Note anything important, such as price changes, days on market, or recent renovations). ● Keep an open mind, but also write down your must-haves and deal-breakers. ● Plan accordingly so you show up on time. 

● Wear appropriate clothing and shoes. 

● Have an inspection checklist to reduce surprises. 

● Bring a measuring tape in case you need to make sure a certain piece of furniture will fit. 

You can reach out to me so I can help and reduce the stress for you by going to the open house with you. I’ve attended and hosted many open houses over the years, and I’m here to make the process easier for you. I’m also a developer, so I can point out any red flags, help you see the potential, and more.

Here are some friendly tips you can use as you search for your dream home, along with things to look for and note. 

1. Sign in (if needed) 

Often, this is a safety measure for the seller and their listing agent, but it’s also a way for you to receive updates on whether the home is still available or about pricing changes. 

2. Greet the agent/host 

Greeting the listing agent helps start you off on a positive note. Building a good rapport with them can make you feel more supported and valued, and may encourage them to share helpful details about the seller’s timeline and other buyers’ interest. It also keeps the door open for any follow-up questions you may have. 

3. Respect the seller’s space 

Ask the seller/agent for permission before taking photos and videos of the property. Ask if it’s okay to open closets and storage, test faucets and light switches, and look at the electrical panel and water heater since staged homes tend to hide deferred maintenance. Make sure to avoid touching personal belongings and to avoid wandering into off-limits areas. 

4. Take notes 

What do you like about the property? What are some dealbreakers for you? Can those dealbreakers be fixed easily? Look for red flags such as water damage (warped baseboards, ceiling stains, mold), foundation cracks, or uneven floors, which may indicate underlying issues that could affect your decision. 

5. Ask questions 

Here are some examples: 

● What are the HOA restrictions? 

● Why are the owners selling? 

● How long has it been on the market? 

● What comes with the property? 

● Have there been recent repairs? 

● When was the roof last replaced? 

● How old is the current water heater unit? 

● When was the HVAC system last serviced or replaced? 

● What is the neighborhood like? 

● When was the home built?

6. Keep conversations positive and don’t overshare 

Don’t overly discuss red flags you see about the property or anything else negative about the listing. Making negative comments openly can work against you if you put an offer down. Plus, it can come off disrespectful, even if the seller isn’t there. Save these comments for a private conversation with your agent instead. 

7. Thank the host 

End things on a positive note and leave a memorable, favorable impression without giving away your negotiating power. 

What to look for and note: 

Does it fit your style? 

Storage space 

Natural light and ventilation 

Noise levels 

Neighborhood feel 

Check the outdoor area 

Internet and cell service 

Commute to work, stores, and hospitals 

The zoning 

Window issues (flaking paint, condensation, misaligned frames) 

Water damage (warped baseboards, ceiling stains, musty odors, mold) 

Foundation concerns (cracks in drywall or ceilings) 

Renovation needs (floors, fixtures, or repainting projects that could add to your overall investment) 

Need a real estate agent? I can help! I'm also a developer, so I can help you notice things you probably never would have thought of when looking for your new home. 

Let's find your dream home. And if we can't find it, let's build it!