Attending your first open home? Here’s everything you need to know

Article by Sinead Clarke Communications Manager 28 June 2024

The world of open homes can feel like a whirlwind of activity. Navigating a bustling crowd, deciphering property details, and making a good impression – it’s enough to make anyone feel a little out of their depth. But fear not, discerning homebuyer! By adopting a strategic approach, you can transform from an open-home novice to a confident property investigator. 

Throughout this journey, we’ll equip you with the tips and tools to navigate the open home scene with finesse. We’ll discuss how to make a great first impression, ask insightful questions, and most importantly, decipher the hidden details that reveal a property’s true potential. By the end, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking the secrets of open homes and discovering the perfect place to call your own.

How does an open home work?

Open homes offer a glimpse into potential properties during designated hours, typically on weekends. They function as a matchmaking service between serious buyers and motivated sellers. Hosted by a real estate agent, these events allow you to freely explore the property at your own pace. The agent will be available to answer questions, highlight key features and collect contact information from interested parties. It’s an efficient way to tour multiple properties and get a feel for a home’s layout, condition and overall vibe.

Top tips:

Let’s dive into some of our top tips on how to nail an open home.

Open homes are a fantastic opportunity to explore properties but remember, you’re a guest in someone’s (hopefully soon-to-be-former) home. Etiquette is key! Take off your shoes if requested, especially if there are carpets or freshly cleaned floors. Avoid touching surfaces unnecessarily, and be mindful of others browsing the space. Following these simple cues shows respect for the homeowner and the agent, making a positive impression that could give you an edge when making an offer.

When you arrive at an open home, the agents will likely introduce themselves and ask if you’re working with a buyer’s agent. Honesty is the best policy here. If you do have a buyer’s agent representing you, simply let them know politely. You can say something like, “Yes, I’m working with [Buyer’s Agent Name] from [Buyer’s Agent Agency]. They’re unavailable today, but I wanted to come take a look at the property myself.” This keeps the agent informed while also letting them know you’ve already established representation. It also avoids any potential confusion about who your point of contact will be throughout the buying process.

While open homes are a chance to explore freely, coming prepared is also wise. Consider packing a small “open home essentials” kit. This can include a discrete tape measure for checking room dimensions (essential for furniture placement!), a notepad for jotting down observations and questions and a charged phone for snapping quick photos (be sure to ask permission first if there’s a “no photos” policy). A small hand sanitiser can also be a lifesaver, especially if you visit multiple properties and want to keep things hygienic. This little kit ensures you can gather all the necessary information without being caught off guard or overwhelmed.

Don’t be shy when it comes to questions at an open house! The agent is there to represent the seller and answer any inquiries you might have. Remember, there’s no such thing as a bad question, especially when it comes to such a significant investment. The more you know about the property, the better equipped you’ll be to make an informed decision. So, delve deeper than just the basics. Ask about past renovations, upcoming neighbourhood developments or the reason behind the sale. Every detail you get is valuable, helping you assess if the property aligns with your needs and budget. Engaging with the agent also demonstrates your genuine interest and positions you as a serious contender for ownership. Take a look at our top questions to ask as a first time property investor.

The excitement of a beautiful open home can be easy to get caught up in. But it’s crucial to maintain a clear head and avoid getting swept away. While it’s important to envision yourself living happily in the space, consider potential drawbacks. Look beyond the staged furniture and focus on details that could indicate maintenance issues – cracks in the foundation, uneven floors, or water damage. Ask about things the agent might not readily mention, like noise levels from nearby traffic or previous damage to the home. Keeping a critical eye and acknowledging potential problems allows you to make a more realistic property assessment and avoid any nasty surprises. Here are our top questions to ask when purchasing a fixer-upper.

The open home itself is just one piece of the puzzle. To get a well-rounded picture of your potential future neighbourhood, consider taking a walk around the surrounding area after your visit. This allows you to experience the vibe firsthand. Is it a bustling hub with cafes and shops or a quiet, tree-lined street? Are there parks nearby for weekend strolls or schools within walking distance if you have a family? Notice the overall feel – is it safe, well-maintained, or rundown? Taking a few minutes to explore the area can reveal hidden gems or potential drawbacks you wouldn’t uncover from inside the property itself. This extra legwork can help you assess if the neighbourhood aligns with your lifestyle and makes the property even more appealing (or steers you in a different direction).

Keep your interest strong after the open-home frenzy! Following up with the agent demonstrates your continued enthusiasm for the property. A quick email or call thanking them for their time and highlighting a specific detail you enjoyed about the home shows initiative and keeps you fresh in their mind. This is also your opportunity to ask any lingering questions that may have popped up after you’ve had time to reflect. The agent is there to provide information, so don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. By staying engaged, you position yourself as a serious contender and increase your chances of landing your dream home.

We hope this guide has been valuable in approaching your first open home. Are you looking to invest in rural Australia? Check out our guide here We’d love to hear your feedback and if any questions were raised during this article, feel free to get in contact with us at [email protected].