Don't Be An Open House Fool

Weekend open houses have always been a tool utilized by agents to drive potential buyers into their listings and to meet new clients. Sellers are happy their home is being marketed, and the listing agent is getting exposure to buyers. It was a win-win.

Recently I have noticed a disturbing shift in the Modesto and surrounding areas though when it comes to buyers attending open houses. Attendees are standoffish, reluctant to share even the most basic of information with the host and not asking any questions about the property they are viewing. To make the most of your time viewing open houses, follow the following 4 tips to maximize your experience and not be an Open House Fool.

1. Make an Entrance When you arrive, the host agent will likely introduce themselves to you. Introduce yourselves back. You know- like how your mom taught you when you were 5. The host is not going to bite or turn into your own personal stalker. I promise. I can’t tell you how many times I have introduced myself to an open house attendee only to be brushed off and not given the courtesy of a reciprocal introduction. Not only is it rude, but it is unnecessary. It tells the host that you are not an interested buyer in the home so they will likely focus their attention on other attendees, leaving any questions you may have unanswered while they attend to other parties.
2. Make Your Intentions Known If you’re a nosey neighbor, just say so. It does not bother the host to chat with neighbors. If you hide it, they will be able to tell anyways (trust me, we can tell) and it just makes you look silly. If you have an agent already, that’s great! Let the host know that too. You can even tell them who it is- they will likely know each other already which may help you if you end up making an offer, which leads to number 3.
3. Make a (good) Impression If you are even semi-serious about the house, take some time to endear yourself to the host agent. When your offer is presented to the seller the agent will be able to personify your offer to the seller that may make them more apt to accept your offer over someone else’s. Conversely, if you are rude, terse, and short with the host and spend the time you are there bad-mouthing every feature of the property and the seller’s belongings that may not bode well for you at the negotiation table either.
4. Make it an Opportunity If you are new to your home search and do not yet have an agent, an open house is the PERFECT opportunity to casually interview and assess several agents in a short amount of time. You can ask questions, chat with them, see how well you connect and even watch them in action with other open house attendees. Don’t be afraid to let them know you are looking for an agent, and definitely do not be afraid to ask questions about anything real estate related. Consider it a job interview on your terms.

Ultimately the open house can be a great tool for buyers if used properly. Just remember- mind your manners, the host agent will not turn into your personal stalker if you chat with them, and take advantage of the learning opportunity in front of you and ask as many questions as you can.