Open house etiquette for homebuyers

In real estate, sellers often open their homes during a set time to invite potential buyers to tour the home. Known as an “open house,” real estate agents set up short blocks of time, which they advertise as a time when guests can come in freely. During the open house, the agent is there to answer questions, point out features of the home, and take offers if they come. If you’re a potential buyer, or even just starting to look, open house etiquette is an important consideration before you head into homes in the Triangle.

The following tips will help you determine clear expectations at open houses and will ensure you get the most out of your experience. Here’s what you should know.

If you show up to a home during the set time for the open house, there’s no need to knock on the door. The agent may have signage set up directing guests to the front door, which helps make it more obvious that the open house is in progress. Unless there’s a sign that specifically says to knock, it’s acceptable to walk in to begin the tour.

Once you’re inside, you may want to call out with a quick, “Hello,” to signal you’re there. The agent may be in a different part of the house giving people tours. Look to see if other guests set shoes aside or if there are booties for your shoes to prevent scuffs or dirt being dragged in during the event. Then, you can start touring the home.

Maybe you’ve been eyeing a specific house for a while and jumped at the chance to tour it. Perhaps you’re just curious because you live in the neighborhood. Or maybe you’re trying to figure out what a home in your budget looks like. Anyone is welcome at an open house. But you should be clear with the agent if you’re just there looking.

Open houses often draw “tourists” who want to see what the house looks like on the inside. Maybe they live in the neighborhood or just happened to drive by. Keep in mind that both the agent and seller want the home to sell. So, if you’re there exploring for fun, be up-front with the agent. If you’re there because you’re genuinely looking to buy, give the agent a head’s up that you’re interested and let them know if you’re being represented by an agent in case you want to make an offer quickly. Honesty is key to open house etiquette.

An open house is a great opportunity to learn about the home, the neighborhood, and the entire area. Be prepared to ask about these aspects as well as the home. If there are things you specifically want answered, be ready in advance to ask those questions.

Typically, the agent will have a flyer or the home’s Multiple Listing Service (MLS) information printed and ready to share. Feel free to pick up those sheets, which lists important details, including the age of the home, the total number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the schools your kids would attend. If there’s any information about the home you can’t find easily, ask the agent for any details you need to make an informed decision.

The great thing about an open house is that it helps you get into the home and look around to see if it meets your needs. You have the freedom to explore the spaces you need to see, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen. However, just because the home is “open,” that doesn’t mean you should look through a person’s things.

A component of open house etiquette is knowing when something is off-limits. Don’t sift through drawers or cabinets. Don’t make negative comments about the homeowner’s furniture or style. And don’t listen in to the conversations of others who are touring the home. Be considerate of those around you, including the people who may also be considering the home for purchase. Poor behavior may result in you losing the home.

It’s completely acceptable to record the important details of the home that you don’t want to forget. You’re welcome to bring a tape measure so you can take notes about the size of rooms or specific spaces. If there’s something you have questions about but would rather follow up on later, write them down to ask afterward.

It’s also acceptable to take photos and videos while you’re touring the home. As you shoot video, talk about the things you like or want to find out more about. Use photos you’re taking to document any repairs that need to be made and to highlight the things you love. Going the extra mile to capture the home and the things you don’t want to forget can help you determine how to move forward.

There are numerous open houses in the Triangle area. Now that you know open house etiquette, you can look for open houses based on location, price, and the other factors you need from a home.