10 Mistakes Realtors Always Notice at Open Houses
If you're looking to buy a new home right now, chances are you've spent plenty of weekends attending open houses. It can be an exciting, albeit anxious time, but it's important to be on your best behavior—especially when the seller's agent is on site.
To help you secure your dream home, we asked realtors and real estate experts about the mistakes they often see homebuyers make at open houses. Here are 10 things to avoid on your next open house tour.
Showing Up Without a Realtor
While you don't need a real estate agent in order to attend an open house, many experts agree that it's better to go with one.
"Some buyers think attending an open house without a realtor can give them an edge. However, they often miss out on expert insights," says Colby Hager, owner of Capstone Homebuyers in San Antonio, Texas.
Tip
Even if you're in the initial stages of home hunting, take a realtor. They will be able to offer you a professional perspective on the property's worth, potential issues, and negotiation strategies.
Sharing Too Much Personal Information
You might feel inclined to make a personal connection with the seller's agent, but remember that you're touring a home as part of a potential business transaction.
"While it's great to share a bit about yourself, you should be cautious about sharing any information that could work against you in a negotiation," advises Toronto-based Emily Jones, a real estate agent for Keller Williams Edge Realty. "The agent hosting the open house is often working on behalf of the seller—whether they are the listing agent directly, or the listing agent has asked for help hosting—and isn't obligated to keep whatever you share to themselves."
Coming Unprepared
The easiest way to lose out on your dream home is by showing up to an open house unprepared.
"One biggie I often see is folks showing up without the right stuff, such as no pre-approval letters or a list of what they want in a home," says real estate professional Neha Gharpande of Elite Properties NY.
Getting Too Excited
Walking through a house that hits all your wants can be exciting, but showing too much excitement isn't always in your favor. Sean Mayers, a real estate agent with Century21, always advises his buyer clients to hide their emotion and excitement when viewing an open house, especially in front of the selling agent.
"If my clients appear too eager it can be used against them later during offer negotiation," says Mayers. "Viewing an open house is like playing poker. You have to keep your cards close to your chest and not reveal your true intentions too early."
Being Overly Critical
Not every house is going to be right for you. Maybe it's more of a fixer-upper than you expected, and that's okay. It's also okay not to broadcast that to other attendees or agents at the open house.
"Some attendees might openly criticize the property in front of the seller's agent," says Lenka Fridrich, owner of Italica Homes. "This could work against them in negotiations later."
Overlooking Future Potential
Even if it isn't move-in read, always go into an open house looking for a home's good bones, which are the foundation to a beautiful, cozy space.
"Some visitors focus solely on the property's current state, overlooking its potential for customization and future enhancements. This can lead to missed opportunities for adding value and personalizing the space," says Sandi Huynen, mortgage broker and real estate expert. ''While evaluating the property, consider its layout, structural integrity, and the potential for renovations or expansions."
Overlooking Small Details
Most people tend to focus on the big picture when touring an open house, looking for a home in a good location, with friendly neighbors and good schools.
"Remember, beauty can be deceiving, and the charm of a well-staged interior should not overshadow potential red flags lurking beneath the surface," says property management specialist Peter Evering of Utopia Management. "Be thorough in your examination, and don't hesitate to ask questions about the property's history and maintenance records."
Tip
Take photos and measurements of the space so you can review them later. Pay attention to the condition of the appliances, light fixtures, and finishes. Look for signs of wear or damage that could mean costly repairs down the line.
Rushing Through the House
If you're well into your house hunting journey, you might feel like a well-seasoned home-touring expert. But rushing through an open house can work against you.
"Potential buyers often feel awkward or rushed and don't take the time to thoroughly inspect the property. It's important to look beyond the aesthetics—check the water pressure, open cabinets, look inside closets, and pay attention to the house's layout," says Joel Efosa, real estate investor at Fire Cash Buyers. "These details can provide insight into potential problems that may not be immediately visible."
Being Rude and Disrespectful
It should go without saying that being kind and respectful is a good idea when attending an open house.
"It is important to remember that an open house is a chance for potential buyers to see what the property has to offer, not a time to test out furniture or appliances. As such, it is important that all visitors remain respectful and refrain from damaging or tampering with any of the property's features," says Zev Freidus, realtor and founder of ZFC Real Estate.
Be polite and courteous. Leave your shoes on to show you respect the property (unless otherwise advised). Don't sit on furniture or use the bathroom—especially if someone still lives in the home.
Taking Your Pet Along
There are plenty of places where pets are welcome, but open houses generally aren't one of them. They can be distracting and cause unwanted damage.
“I once saw someone bring their dog to an open house and just let it roam around the home. The dog wagged its tail too close to an end table and smashed an expensive vase to the ground," says Mayers. Unsurprisingly, "the homeowner was not impressed and sued the dog owner for the replacement cost."
