Open house etiquette

When you arrive at the open house, usually it’s ok to enter without knocking or ringing the door bell, unless there is a note posted at the entry stating otherwise. As a common courtesy, try to greet the agent if possible. However, if he or she is busy speaking to someone, you can just pick up a flyer and go on a self-guided tour and the agent will speak to you later.

Every agent takes a different approach to selling. While one agent may try to engage you in a conversation, another agent may try to give you space by saying, "Feel free to have a look around and I will be glad to answer any questions you may have".

If you are actively house-hunting on your own but have your own agent representing you, it’s a good idea to mention this to the agent hosting the open house so that he or she doesn't try to solicit you.

Behind closed doors

Sellers will usually vacate the home during an open house. This makes prospective buyers feel more comfortable in asking the agent questions, but this doesn't give you free rein to rifle through their belongings.

Please keep in mind that an open house exists to let people examine the building and their potential future home and not to snoop in the medicine cabinet or dresser drawers. If you come across a closed door, check with the real estate agent first before opening it.

Also remember; it’s generally considered good open house etiquette and polite to not intrude and wait until one group of buyers leaves a room or area before you enter.

Blunt remarks

Make sure the seller has left before you make critical comments. But don't feel obliged to stick to niceties as you preview the house. If you are concerned about something, there is nothing wrong inquiring about it.

Nobody wants to hear they have bad taste in their décor, paint colors, type flooring, or that the stucco is tacky. However, on the other hand, the real estate agent will appreciate your feedback.

Also, if you notice a safety hazard, you should bring this up to the listing agent so that he or she can inform their seller and be able to address the issue right away. The agent may have already done his or her due diligence when they listed the property and noted this but could also have missed this and they will appreciate you informing them of it.

Leave your mark

Often at an open house you'll find a sign-up sheet to track visitors. Be sure to list your name on the sheet.

It's not easy for the seller to leave their home wide open to whoever wants to come through – so as a courtesy at least let them know you were there by leaving your name. If you don't want a follow-up call from the real estate agent, you can opt not to leave your phone number or note that you do not want to be contacted.