Are you a first-time homebuyer? Wondering whether there is proper etiquette for attending an open house?
In the world of real estate, an open house is an event organized by the homeowner or the seller, to let the potential buyers visit and learn about the house. Generally, an open house is help for a few days until the word get out in the town that the homeowner wants to sell the property. So, make sure you follow open house etiquette rules that every homeowner expects you to know.
Here are a few open house etiquette rules everyone should follow.
1. Remember that you are a guest
Some first-time homebuyers are not aware of how difficult it can be for a homeowner to organize events such an open house. They have to invite people(in their homes) they have never met before. It can also be a risk to their belongings and themselves too.
Do not touch anything while you are out there inspecting the house. Just walk around and get a feel of what the house is all about. You can fix a second visit later for detailed inspection. Also, do not use the bathroom without the homeowner’s permission; even if it is not their primary residence.
2. Sign in when the host as you to
Like any other event or meetup, an open house is also an event. You will be required to give out your details before stepping into the house. The homeowner or their agent might ask you to fill up a form asking for your name, home address, phone number, email address, occupation, marital status, etc. Be honest while filling up the form.
These days, some open house events are advertised online. So, you can also provide all the required information online. This will allow you. the first-time homebuyer to focus on exploring the house rather than doing rudimentary paperwork.
3. Don’t forget to mention your agent
After the initial formalities, the homeowner might sit with you to ask you a few questions. These questions are meant to be a seed for further negotiations. So, it is best to tell them about your agent; if you have one. Because dealing with an agent is a lot different than with a novice buyer.
4. Do not take your pets to the open house
Open house hosts are told by their agent to keep their pets far away from the entrance of the house. Some people are not used to the idea of having pets and they might also see them as a threat. Likewise, a visitor, you should too consider this point and leave your pets at home.
Is it a bad etiquette go to go an Open House just to see the interior design or just check out the place?
Not. Visiting an open house just to check out the place is not considered bad etiquette. Homeowners and their agents appreciate that their neighbors are visiting their house. This is a strong signal to the buyers that they will be having friendly and sociable neighbors in the future. It also allows the buyers to know about the locality from a third party perspective.
