Buyers Guide to Open House Etiquette the Do's, Buyers Guide to Open House Etiquette – the Do’s, Paul Hill Realty

Open House Tips from Paul Hill Realty Hope Island

As people keep scrambling to buy a property, open houses have become increasingly more common.

Though you can probably think of better ways to spend your weekends, Open Houses are necessary and are a great way for you to suss out the competition and dig beyond the listing data.

Below Paul Hill Realty Hope Island has listed some Etiquette Do’s to follow when you attend your next open house:

1. Walk right in.

If the property’s been listed in the paper or online, or there’s a sign posted at the front, don’t bother knocking or ringing the doorbell, if the door is open, just step right in.

But wipe your feet on the doormat, especially on rainy days.

Open houses are there for potential buyers, but they’re also there to get the word out, so passer-by and neighbours can spread the word. So if you’re not actively buying right now, don’t feel bad for dropping by.

Tip: Call out “Hello!” if you don’t immediately see an real estate agent. They might be otherwise occupied in another room.

2. Sign in, Leave your Name and Contact Information.

The landowner has allowed you to walk around their home, so it’s good form to let them know who you are, agents are required to collect your details.

Now, if you don’t want a follow-up call from the agent, simply advise the agent. And thank the real estate agent before you leave.

3. Ask Questions.

The agent is there to sell the property, so ask as many questions as you like. Also, feel free to call the agent after the open house if you have additional questions. Common questions that buyers ask include:

  • Has the property been renovated?
  • Why are the owners selling?
  • Have you received any offers for the property?
  • Are there any big developments planned nearby?
  • How long has the property been on the market?
  • Are there any known issues with the property, the land or the neighbours’ properties?

4. Take Photos or Video, with Permission.

While online listings include more photos, video and floor plans than ever before, it’s generally considered acceptable for would-be buyers to take photos or videos at an open house.

But make sure you check with the real estate agent before doing so, just to be safe. Remember this is somebody else’s home, so respect their privacy.

5. Give Other Visitors Space.

Open homes can be busy these days, You’ll want to wait to enter a room until any other visitors who are already there have departed. There’s plenty of other space to explore in the meantime.

6. Remember Your Manners.

Don’t use the bathrooms, and don’t open drawers, cabinets, the refrigerator, or closed doors. People still live here in most cases, and that’s just plain intrusive.

Happy house hunting!

Looking for a Reputable and Professional Real Estate Agent on the Gold Coast?

Paul Hill Realty’s office is located on Hope Island Road, Hope Island. They have sold and managed residential properties all over the Northern end of the Gold Coast. Paul Hill Realty Hope Island is your best choice in property sales and management.

Learn more about Paul Hill Realty Hope Island – click here.

Get in touch with one of our experienced team at Paul Hill Realty Hope Island by calling 07 5577 1888.