Real Estate Advice

Open House Etiquette


Dear Pat,
My husband and I are trying to get a feel for the real estate market by going to open houses. Sometimes it’s hard to get past the Realtor or homeowner just to see the house. We’ve been asked all kinds of questions, and been asked to sign in several times. We want to do our research in our own time frame, but we know the calls will start once we sign in. Is this a requirement? We want to see what’s out there in this “buyer’s” market, but we’re
---Reluctant
 

1. Sellers have a right to know who came into their home. I will always ask buyers to sign in, along with a promise to not call them unless they specifically request it. However, I won’t withhold a buyer’s privilege to tour the home if he refuses to sign in (that would not be in the best interest of my seller).

2. Buyers have the right to tour the home without interference. We all laugh at the classic how-not-to-show-your-house example wherein the seller follows the buyer from room to room breathlessly announcing the obvious (“…and this is the kitchen!”). But a well-intentioned agent who simply wants to be nearby for questions may also be too much for some buyers. A buyer with a question can find me easily in the home.

3. Neighbors have the right to look, too. I always welcome “nosy” neighbors. They are invariably friendly houseguests who many times over the years have become matchmakers for the perfect buyer.

4. Any guest in the home has the right to my immediate and undivided attention. It’s my party, and my obligation to be a courteous, responsive host.

My advice, Reluctants, is to act as though every open house you enter has this “bill of rights.” Explain to an over-eager agent that you feel more comfortable touring the home quietly, by yourself. Or note on a sign-in sheet that you don’t want to be called later. Now, go forth and sample this so-called “buyer’s market.” Good luck!