Open homes are a great way to view properties for sale without any obligations or commitments. They should be a pressure-free time for you to look around the property and are usually held on weekends or sometimes in the evening after work.  It’s a great way for you to view the home in person and get a feel for the surrounding neighbourhood. Here are some tips to keep in mind when attending an open home to help you make the most of the time you have while you’re there:

Do’s:

1. Do your research: Before attending an open home, make sure you are familiar with the property and the area. Read online listings, view photos and check out the surrounding neighbourhood to see if it meets your needs. The real estate agent should also be able to answer any questions you have about the area.
2. Dress appropriately: When attending an open home, make sure you dress in a way that allows you to go wherever you may need to on the property. Closed toe shoes are best as well as clothes that ok if they get a little dirty when you’re checking under the house or outside areas.
3. Bring some essentials: A measuring tape, a notepad and pen to jot down any questions or observations you may have. If you want to take photos, please ask the real estate agent first.
4. Be respectful: Remember that you are visiting someone’s home, so treat it with respect. Don’t leave a mess or damage anything, and if you do, please inform the agent.  It’s also best to avoid making inappropriate comments about the home if you don’t like it. We understand that not everyone visiting will like the home, and that’s fine.  Those conversations are better in the privacy of your car once you’ve left the open home.
5. Remove your Shoes: No matter how clean you think your shoes are, if there is any damage resulting in dirt, stones or other unwanted items on your shoes, it will cause an issue for the home owner, and the agent. You don’t want to be remembered as the person that damaged the carpet or flooring.

Don’ts:

1. Be late: Be on time for the open home and don’t keep the real estate agent waiting. Being late has a flow on effect for everyone. You want enough time to view the property and there’s nothing worse for an agent than having to shoo you out the door because they have another open home to go to after the one you’re attending.  If you think you’ll be late for the open home, book a private viewing with the agent at a time that’s mutually suitable.
2. Bring children: Children can be distracting at an open home when you’re trying to concentrate on looking around the property. It adds to your stress if you’re having to watch them, especially if they are tired and had enough for the day. You only have a short timeframe to look around, so make the most of it by leaving your kids at home if you can.
3. Ask personal questions: Avoid asking the real estate agent or the homeowner personal questions about the property or their reasons for selling. There are strict rules around disclosure and the agent is bound by these.  A better question to ask would be “how motivated are the owners to sell?”.
4. Make a verbal offer: An agent must present all offers in writing. Asking an agent if the vendor will accept an offer of a certain amount won’t get you anywhere.  If you are serious about the property, ask for the documents to be sent to you and tell the agent you’d like to make an offer once you’ve read through the documents and gotten the advice needed from professionals like your solicitor and mortgage broker.
5. Use the house as a pit stop: This may sound like common sense, however you’d be surprised how often it happens. If you need to use the facilities, please find a public toilet.  Remember, treat the vendors house the way you would want your home treated.

Make the most of your open home experience and find the perfect property for you and your family.  As always, if you have any questions at the open home, please ask – that’s what the agent is there for.