Open house: How to make the most of the visit

Articles on Home | Topics: home, house

by Tony Gilliam

Open house: How to make the most of the visit

Buying a house for whatever reason should be a fun and exciting time. Open houses are an enjoyable event. You may even visit three or four different homes in one day. There are special things to look for when going to see these houses. An open house is used to check the market and let potential buyers window-shop. There are certain criteria you have in mind when searching for the perfect home. Jot those ideas down and compare them to the homes you view.

Take a notepad with you to each house and make a note of the address of the homes you visit. Jot down things you like and dislike about each house. This will help you keep track of which house is which. Make note of nearby schools, the general neighborhood, how close is freeway access, where are the shopping malls, and any other information that will help you decide on your choice of home. The commute to work is a vital piece of information. Many forget to consider how far away the job is. The last thing a person wants to do is spend too much time on the road instead of with the family. When attending an open house, remember that the neighborhood surroundings are an important aspect to purchasing a house.

Check the condition of the house, the road and the yard. Is it suitable of children or pets? Who will take care of the yard or can you hire a gardener? Whatever you desire, be sure to think of everything and take plenty of notes. A poloroid camera is well worth taking. Clip instant snapshots to your notebook to help you remember specific houses. Buying a house is an important step, so make sure you know what to look for. Check everything. Notice cabinets, appliances, doors and even views out of the windows. Listen to noises that could be bothersome, such as a train that passes near by or a freeway. Make sure there is plenty of living space or room to add more if you desire. Most people forget to ensure there is enough closet and storage room. Write down vital pieces of information which should include anything that will help you with your decision.

Quote of the Day

we carry home as prizes
Funny bugs, of handy sizes,
Just to give the day a scientific tone.

—Charles Edward Carryl (1841–1920)

At the open house, an owner or broker is likely to be present. If there is one in attendance, ask questions. Find out all the little secrets about the house. Granted they will not always be straightforward. Have a memo of each inquiry. Put in writing all the answers. When you make the choice on a house you can add these questions into the sales contact and re-ask the query. If these replies differ in the writing stage you may not want to do business with these people after all. All homes have concealed facts. Some are not real terrible but others can be horrendous. Interrogating the owner or broker is an ideal way to find out things that are not visible. Do not be shy about wanting to know how your dream home is really shaped.

Many times, several brokers, lenders or agents frequent open houses. They want your business as soon as you step foot onto the property. Do not sign anything. Even if this were the house you would like to purchase. On sight people have one agenda, to sell you something. Usually the brokers who visit many different open houses will try and get you to view other properties. Which is fine, however they do not know anything about your wishes of the home you want. The mortgage lenders may try to sell you a different house at a better rate. However, in the end it is more likely you will end up paying more. At the stage of an open house it is most probable you are playing the field.

Going to an open house is a time-honored tradition. Open houses are for looking and sometimes even buying. With an important and expensive decision to make, it is better to research and look at all of your options. When venturing upon an open house, understand all the choices offered. Try not to be persuaded in making rash decisions. You have the option of looking, taking those important notes, returning to look some more, and even moving on if this house is not for you.

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Please note: All personal opinions expressed in the "Open house: How to make the most of the visit" article belong to the contributing author and are not necessarily shared by FamilyBabyKids.com.

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