Open houses are an essential part of the property-buying journey. They offer a unique opportunity to explore a home firsthand, ask important questions, and determine whether it could be the right fit for you. However, attending an open house comes with certain expectations of etiquette, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor.

At Best Property Agent, we believe in educating buyers about every step of the process, from finding the right property to understanding the open house dynamics. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about open house etiquette for buyers, ensuring you make the most of your visit while respecting the seller’s space. Let’s dive into the best practices and key things you should keep in mind when attending open houses.

What You Can Do at an Open House

1. Ask Plenty of Questions

An open house provides you with the perfect opportunity to gather information about the property. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! The real estate agent is there to assist you, and they are the most knowledgeable resource about the property you’re considering. Some key questions to ask during your open house visit include:

• • Has the property been renovated recently?
    Renovations can significantly affect the property’s value and condition, so it’s important to know what changes have been made.

• • Why are the owners selling?
    Understanding why the property is on the market can give you insight into any potential issues, whether it’s due to personal reasons, financial necessity, or neighborhood developments.

• • Are there any offers on the property?
    If the property is receiving interest, it can help you determine whether you need to act quickly or if there’s room for negotiation.

• • How long has the property been on the market?
    This can give you clues about the seller’s motivations and whether you might have negotiating leverage.

• • Are there any future developments planned in the area?
    Understanding what’s in store for the neighborhood can be crucial for long-term value and peace of mind.

2. Inspect the Property Thoroughly

Open houses allow you to assess the property in detail. It’s entirely appropriate to check cupboards, open doors, and take a closer look at various parts of the house. Be sure to inspect the following:

• • Taps and plumbing: Check if the taps are functioning correctly and look for any signs of leaks or water damage.

• • Doors and windows: Open doors and windows to check for any issues with locking or sealing.

• • Squeaks or damages: Walk around the property and listen for any unusual sounds, such as creaky floors or squeaky doors, that may indicate underlying issues.

It’s also perfectly fine to bring a tape measure to double-check dimensions and space. Just remember to be discreet and considerate when doing so.

3. Take Photos or Videos (with Permission)

In today’s digital world, taking photos or videos during open houses has become a common practice. This allows you to compare properties and reflect on what you liked or disliked after the inspection. However, always ask the real estate agent for permission before taking photos or videos inside the property. Not all agents may be comfortable with this, especially if the property contains sensitive information or personal items.

4. Make Yourself at Home—Within Reason

While you’re at the open house, it’s important to get a sense of how the property feels. Feel free to sit on the couch, stand at the kitchen counter, or check out the view from the windows. This helps you envision yourself living in the space. However, certain behaviors, like jumping on the bed or using the bathroom extensively, should be avoided.

5. Wear Comfortable Clothing

There’s no need to dress in anything overly formal when attending an open house. Since most open houses are scheduled for weekends, buyers typically wear casual, comfortable clothes. Just make sure your attire is appropriate for walking around and inspecting the property. If you’re walking through a larger property or one with outdoor areas, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as well.

What Not to Do at an Open House

1. Avoid Loud Criticism

While it’s normal to have opinions on a property, it’s important to refrain from loudly criticizing it in front of others. If something doesn’t sit right with you, it’s better to discuss it privately with the real estate agent afterward. Loud criticism can create a negative atmosphere and may make you appear unprofessional or disrespectful.

2. Don’t Bring Food or Drinks

Though it may seem convenient to bring a coffee or snack during your visit, it’s best to leave food and drinks outside the property. Accidental spills can cause damage to flooring, carpets, or furniture, which is something you definitely want to avoid. Always respect the homeowner’s space.

3. Avoid Muddy Shoes and Dirty Clothing

If you’re attending the open house with children or if you’ve just come from an outdoor activity, make sure to clean your shoes before entering the property. Muddy boots or shoes can leave marks that are difficult to clean, and it’s simply courteous to respect the home by keeping it as clean as possible.

4. Don’t Snoop

Although it’s natural to be curious about how the previous owners lived, it’s important to maintain boundaries. Take a quick look inside a cupboard or check out the dimensions of a room, but don’t go through personal belongings or search through private spaces. Snoopers may be viewed as disrespectful, and it could give you a bad reputation in the real estate community.

5. Be Polite and Respectful

One of the most important aspects of attending an open house is treating everyone with respect. Whether it’s the real estate agent, the seller, or other potential buyers, always be polite and professional. Building rapport with the agent can help you stand out if you decide to make an offer, as agents appreciate working with respectful clients.

Do You Need to Provide ID at an Open House?

In Australia, it’s not legally required to present an ID when attending an open house, but it’s common for real estate agents to ask buyers to sign in. This helps agents keep track of who’s attending, provides security for the homeowner, and allows them to follow up with you later. If you prefer not to be contacted, simply let the agent know on the day.