Open homes are part of the house hunting process, but not everyone quite understands open home etiquette.
While it seems to be a very straightforward process, you show up, view the property, ask some questions, then leave, there is an unspoken etiquette that comes with viewing someone else home.
What you can do at an open home
1. Ask questions
Don't be afraid to ask the Agent questions. This can sometimes seem intimidating especially if there are lots of people around however the Agent is there to sell the property, so ask as many questions as you like!
TIP: Call the Agent before you view the home to express your interest in the property and advise you wish to attend the upcoming open home. This is a great opportunity to ask questions before viewing the property but also puts you on the Agent's radar at the open home and helps to break the conversational ice.
Commonly asked questions by buyers include:
- Why are the owners selling?
- Have you received any offers on the property?
- How long has the property been on the market for?
- Has the property been renovated?
- Are big developments planned nearby?
- Are there any known issues with the property or land?
- How are the neighbours?
Don't be afraid to call the Agent after the open home if you have additional questions.
2. Ask if you shoes need to be removed
The same rule applies to open homes as they do any home you attend when it comes to footwear. It is always best to ask the Agent if shoes need to be removed before entering the property.
If it has been raining, you have walked through mud recently or are wearing work boots, it is always recommended your shoes be removed regardless.
3. Inspect storage spaces
It is perfectly reasonable to open storage spaces such as linen presses and closets to check the size, however please remember to be considerate and do not touch any of the items inside.
4. Measure spaces and check if anything is broken or squeaks
It is completely fine to check for leaking taps, squeaky doors or loose fixtures so long as you are respectful. It’s also fine to pull out the trusty tape measure to measure spaces.
5. Take photos or video, with permission
It’s considered generally acceptable for buyers to take photos or videos at an open house with the permission of the Agent.
6. Make yourself at home, within reason
When you are thinking about buying a property, you will always want to see how it feels to live there. Feel free to sit down on the couch or at the kitchen counter and play house for a short time to get a good understanding of the space.
7. Wear something your comfortable in... but be respectful
As most opens homes are held on weekends or in the afternoon, it is expected people will attend in a more relaxed attire.
While you don't need to dress up, do try to come dressed appropriately.
8. Watch your children
Of course it is expected children will be attending open homes with their parents, however please ensure they stay with you or you have a watchful eye on them at all times. Do not allow them to bring food, drink or messy items into the house and do not allow them to touch anything without permission.
The best way to avoid any mishaps is by explaining the rules before going inside and ensuring they do not run off on their own.
9. Be respectful of the Agent and other buyer's time
Open homes only go for a set amount of time so please be sure to not monopolise an Agents time. There are generally many buyer's who all want questions answered so please allow them the opportunity. If you have lots of questions you want answered, ask the Agent to call you after the open home so they can dedicate time to answering your questions.
What you shouldn’t do at an open home
What you shouldn’t do at an open house generally comes down to basic manners.
1. Loudly criticise the property
It is normal to find flaws or having differing tastes when inspecting a property. While it's expected not every person will fall in love with a home and buyers will discuss the possible negatives, it’s rude to walk around loudly criticising
2. Bring lots of people with you
Buyers often want the opinion of family or friends when viewing a home. It is recommended you bring only those who need to see the property with you as large groups can mean less time for other buyers to view and a higher chance of something being broken.
3. Be rude
No one wants to deal with someone who is rude. The best way to build rapport with an Agent is to be polite. Agents feed information back to the sellers regarding each buyer and often sellers are guided by first impressions so always be polite and communicate well, it goes a long way.
4. Snoop
There’s a difference between taking a quick look and going through someone’s personal items. While everyone gets a little curious it is rude and inappropriate to snoop!