10 Insider Tips to Make the Most of an Open House

Visiting an open house isn’t just about touring a home—it’s a golden opportunity to gather insights, ask the right questions, and get ahead in the buying process. Here’s how to take full advantage of what the hosting realtor can offer:

1. Sign In & Start a Conversation 📝

Many buyers skip the sign-in sheet, but this is your chance to connect with the listing agent. Even if this home isn’t the one, they might know of something coming soon or come across your perfect home in the next few days or weeks. If they don’t have your contact info, they can’t reach out to let you know—and you could miss out on a great opportunity!

Even if you’re already working with a realtor, it’s completely okay to be upfront and say, “We’re working with a realtor, but if you come across something that fits what we’re looking for, please reach out to us or our agent.” This keeps more eyes on the market for you and increases your chances of finding the right home faster.

2. Ask About the Seller’s Motivation 💡

A simple question like, “Why are the sellers moving?” can give clues about their motivation. If they need to sell quickly, there may be more room for negotiation.

3. Get the Inside Scoop on Pricing 💰

The listing agent knows the pricing strategy. Ask, “Has there been a price adjustment?” or “Are there any offers on the table?” This helps you gauge competition and potential wiggle room in negotiations.

4. Find Out About Market Conditions 📊

Ask the agent for their thoughts on the local market:

• Are homes in this area selling quickly?
• How competitive is the current market?
• What kind of offers are sellers expecting?

5. Ask About Recent Upgrades & Repairs 🛠️

A home might look stunning, but you want to know what’s under the surface. Ask:

• Have there been any recent renovations?
• What major systems (roof, furnace, AC, water heater) have been updated?
• Are there any warranties still in effect?

6. Test the Home Like You Own It 🚪

Don’t be afraid to open closets, check storage space, and test water pressure. Listing photos are one thing, but seeing how the space functions is what matters.

7. Get Details on Comparable Listings 📋

A savvy agent will know how this home stacks up to others on the market. Ask:

• Are there similar homes for sale nearby?
• How does this home compare in price and condition?
• What have similar homes recently sold for?

8. Ask About Potential Offers & Competition ⚖️

If you're serious about the home, ask:

• Are the sellers expecting multiple offers?
• Would they consider a preemptive (early) offer?
• What terms might make an offer stand out?

9. Ask About the Neighborhood & Community 🏡

An open house is the perfect time to learn about more than just the house. Ask:

• What are the schools like?
• How’s the traffic, noise level, and overall vibe of the neighborhood?
• Are there any upcoming developments that could impact property value?

10. Follow Up with the Agent 📞

Even if this isn’t the one, keeping in touch with the listing agent can be helpful. If they know what you’re looking for, they might alert you to off-market deals or upcoming listings before they hit the market!

Bonus Tip: Bring Your Own Realtor if You Have One!

If you’re already working with a real estate agent, let the listing agent know. Your agent can follow up on your behalf and help you strategize if you decide to make an offer.

Want more house-hunting tips? Let’s chat! 📩 DM me, call 403-923-6003, or visit www.yourokotoksrealtor.com! 🚀