What to Look for During an Open House

Attending an open house can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming if you don't know what to look for. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, it's important to approach an open house with a critical eye.

Who Goes To Open Houses

Many people attend open houses without a specific objective; they may not be ready to buy, or haven't yet made the decision about where and when they are going to look for a new home. They may just be "nosy" neighbors: open houses are for everyone!

Others may be ready to write an offer when they find the perfect house. Some are already working with a real estate agent, and spending a casual day on their own looking at homes that don't fit a specific location or price objective, while checking in with their buyer's agent.

Many people who go to open houses are out on their own, and may be visiting a number of open houses as an opportunity to interview real estate agents in a casual, no-pressure environment.

What You Should Look for During an Open House

Here are some key things to keep in mind when attending an open house:

Curb Appeal

The first thing you'll notice about a property is its curb appeal. Take a few moments to walk around the outside of the property and assess its exterior condition. A well-maintained exterior can give you an idea of how well the property has been taken care of. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks in the driveway or walkways, missing shingles on the roof, or chipped paint on the walls.

If the property looks rundown from the outside, it may be an indicator that it has not been well-maintained on the inside as well.

Layout and Flow

As you step inside the property, take note of its layout and flow. Does it feel open and spacious, or cramped and cluttered? A good layout can make all the difference in how comfortable and enjoyable a home is to live in. Look for how the rooms are arranged and how they connect to each other.

Think about how you would use the space and whether it would fit your lifestyle. If the layout doesn't work for you, it may not be the right property for you.

Condition of the Property

While walking through the property, take note of its condition. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks in the walls or ceilings, water stains, or leaky faucets. These could be indicators of larger issues that need to be addressed. Pay attention to the age of the property and when it was last renovated. If it has been several years since any updates, it may need significant work to bring it up to modern standards.

She also lists specific features to look at carefully: bathtubs and showers, windows - sills, frames, panes. "Do the doors open and close correctly?," she asks. "Look for evenness of the hardwood floors. Unevenness or “cupping” could mean moisture issues. Check for storage areas - will you have enough storage space? Pet odors may be a problem… they don’t come out of hardwoods."

Natural Light

The amount of natural light that enters a property can have a big impact on its appeal.

Take note of the amount of light that enters each room and whether it feels bright and airy or dark and gloomy. Large windows, skylights, and open floor plans can help bring in more natural light and make a space feel more welcoming.

Storage Space

Storage space is a key consideration for many buyers. Take note of the amount of closet and cabinet space available in the property. Are there enough storage options to accommodate your needs? If not, think about whether there are other options for storage, such as a basement or garage.

Neighborhood

The neighborhood surrounding a property is just as important as the property itself. Take a walk around the area and get a feel for the neighborhood. Are there amenities nearby, such as parks, schools, and shops? What is the overall feel of the neighborhood? Do you feel safe and comfortable walking around the area?

Consider the location and whether it fits your lifestyle and needs.

What Should You Do at an Open House?

Ask Questions! 

Don't be afraid to ask the agent hosting the open house questions about the property. The agent at the open house will either be the listing agent, or an agent who knows about the property and who is ready to talk with prospective buyers.

The hosting agent should be able to provide you with information about the property's history, renovations, and other important details. Ask about any potential issues or concerns you may have, such as the age of the roof or the condition of the HVAC system.

The more information you have, the better informed you will be when making a decision about the home you are touring, or one that best fits your lifestyle and financial objectives.

Attending an open house is a great opportunity to get a feel for a property and determine if it is a good fit for you. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your instincts. Consider the property's curb appeal, layout and flow, condition, natural light, storage space, and neighborhood when making your decision. By doing so, you can find the perfect property that fits your lifestyle and needs.