- Wear comfortable shoes, preferably ones that are easy to take on and off. Make sure to remove footwear once inside the home, unless the host/hostess suggests otherwise.
- If you are already working with a REALTOR® as your Buyer’s Agent and they aren’t able to accompany you, ask them for a stack of their business cards and give one to the hosting REALTOR® in each Open House.
- Ask the hosting REALTOR® any questions you might have about the property, but keep in mind, that they are there representing the sellers. Unless you plan to use them as your agent, try not to disclose anything about your motivation to buy or the amount you would be willing to pay for any certain home.
- Don’t be afraid to ask about the area, the neighbours, how long the home has been on the market, any special features or upgrades… anything that is pertinent to your purchasing decision.
- Look closely at the “bones” of the property. If it is an older property, have windows been upgraded, what is the condition of the roof, the furnace, the hot water tank. If you decide to offer on the property, you can also enlist the help of a property inspector to give their opinion of the condition of the home.
- If closet / cupboard space is important to you, ask the hosting REALTOR® if it’s okay to look in closets and cupboards. Refrain from looking inside dressers and other pieces of furniture that will not be staying with the home.
- Take notes. After seeing several homes in one day, they may start to run together, so make notes about each home. You might even try giving each home a special name so it comes back to your memory more easily later on, such as the “Pink Bathroom” or the “Huge Yard” house. Feel free to print several of the Home Purchase Checklists to take with you.
- If the seller is home during the open house, refrain from making negative comments about the home in their presence. If you decide this is the home for you, your comments could end up hurting your negotiating position.
- If you like a particular home and feel that you may want to make an offer, discus your decision in private. Call your agent once you have left the home and inform them of your intentions and schedule a second viewing with them if necessary.
- Start your journey on a full stomach and a good night’s sleep. Open housing is a big job, but an important one in the home search process. When finished, give yourself a big pat on the back!
|
|
- Set a time and date with your REALTOR® for your Open House. Ask how they will advertise the Open House.
- Curb appeal. Make buyer’s want to enter your home. Shovel walkways in winter, mow the lawn in the summer and clean up any debris in the yard.
- Make a good first impression. Ensure door handles work properly and the entryway is clear of clutter. In inclement weather, place a non-skid mat inside the front door.
- Make sure all rooms are accessible and free from clutter and that each room has a clearly defined purpose.
- Clean, clean, clean! Bathrooms and kitchens should sparkle. Clear off countertops, put out fresh towels and make sure toilet seats and lids are down.
- If possible, remove all pets from the home and yard.
- Put away all valuables and any personal information that you wouldn’t want a buyer to see.
- Play soft music in the background, nothing loud or offensive.
- Turn on all lights and open blinds and curtains to let outside light in.
- Leave the rest in the good hands of your chosen REALTOR®!
|
|
|
|
|
|
