Everyone wants to make sure they’re making a sound investment, so it’s natural to want to inspect thoroughly. But what are the limits?
Can you walk straight in? Do you need to bring ID? What should you wear? What questions should you ask? Is it appropriate to open cupboards? We answer these questions and more.
Table of Contents
ToggleWhat You Can Do at an Open House
1. Ask Questions
The agent is there to help sell the property, so take advantage of their presence by asking any questions you have. Here are some typical questions to consider:
- Has the property undergone any renovations?
- Why are the current owners selling?
- Have there been any offers made on the property?
- Are there any significant developments planned nearby?
- How long has the property been listed on the market?
- Are there any known issues with the property or neighbouring properties?
2. Inspect for Issues
Feel free to open kitchen cupboards, test water pressure, and check for squeaky doors. As long as you are respectful and considerate, it is also acceptable to use a tape measure to verify room dimensions.
3. Take Photos or Videos, with Permission
While online listings often provide comprehensive visuals, you may want to take your own photos or videos to help you remember details. Just be sure to ask the agent for permission before doing so.
4. Get a Feel for the Property
It’s natural to want to see how a property feels, so don’t hesitate to sit down on the couch or stand at the kitchen counter. However, be mindful not to overstep boundaries, such as lying on beds.
5. Dress Comfortably
Wondering what to wear? Keep it casual. Most open houses occur on weekends, so dressing in comfortable, casual attire is perfectly acceptable.
What You Should Avoid Doing at an Open House
1. Criticising Loudly
If you notice flaws, it’s best to keep your thoughts to yourself during the inspection and discuss any concerns with the agent privately afterward.
2. Bringing Food or Drinks
Avoid bringing beverages that could spill and cause damage. It’s courteous to leave your coffee or other drinks outside.
3. Wearing Dirty Shoes
If you’re coming from a muddy environment or a sports event, make sure your shoes are clean before entering the property to respect the owners’ space.
4. Snooping Through Personal Belongings
Respect the privacy of the current owners. Opening closets and cupboards to assess storage space is fine, but rummaging through personal items is not.
5. Being Rude
Maintaining a polite demeanour goes a long way. Agents are there to facilitate the sale, so treating them with respect and courtesy is important.
Do You Need to Bring ID?
While there is no legal requirement to show ID at an open house in Australia, many agents will ask visitors to sign a logbook upon entry. This practice helps ensure security and follow-up communication. If you prefer not to receive follow-up calls, simply inform the agent at the time of signing in.
By following these guidelines, you can make the most of your open house visits while ensuring a respectful and productive experience for both yourself and the agents involved. Happy house hunting!
