Open Home Etiquette: What to Do and What to Avoid
Attending an open home is an essential part of the house-hunting process. It allows you to get a feel for a property, visualise yourself living there, and assess its suitability. However, it's crucial to remember that you are a guest in someone's home. Practising good open home etiquette is essential to make a positive impression, respect the property owner, and ensure a smooth viewing experience for everyone. This guide outlines what to do and what to avoid when attending an open home in Australia.
Being Respectful of the Property
Respect for the property is paramount. Remember, this is someone's home, and you should treat it as such.
Remove Your Shoes (If Requested): Many homeowners or agents will request that you remove your shoes upon entry. This is to protect the flooring and keep the house clean. If there's a shoe rack or designated area, use it. If not, neatly place your shoes near the entrance.
Avoid Touching Personal Items: Refrain from touching or handling personal belongings, such as photographs, ornaments, or clothing. You are there to view the property itself, not to rummage through the owner's possessions.
Supervise Children: If you are bringing children, ensure they are well-behaved and supervised at all times. Children should not run around, touch furniture, or play with items in the house. Any damage caused by your children is your responsibility.
No Food or Drinks: Avoid bringing food or drinks into the property. Spills can cause damage and are disrespectful to the homeowner. If you have a drink, finish it before entering or dispose of it responsibly.
Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of areas that are clearly marked as private or off-limits. Some rooms or sections of the house may be excluded from the open home viewing. Respect these boundaries and do not enter restricted areas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wearing muddy or dirty shoes: Check your shoes before entering and clean them if necessary.
Allowing children to run wild: Keep a close eye on your children and ensure they behave appropriately.
Opening drawers or cupboards without permission: Only open drawers or cupboards if the agent explicitly invites you to do so.
Asking Appropriate Questions
Asking questions is a great way to gather information about the property, but it's important to ask appropriate questions at the right time.
Focus on Property-Related Questions: Ask questions about the property's features, history, or potential. For example, you could ask about the age of the appliances, the last time the property was renovated, or the council rates.
Be Polite and Respectful: Phrase your questions politely and respectfully. Avoid being demanding or confrontational. Remember, the agent is there to help you, but they are also representing the seller.
Avoid Personal Questions: Refrain from asking personal questions about the seller, such as why they are selling or where they are moving to. This information is usually confidential and not relevant to your decision-making process.
Timing is Key: Be mindful of the timing of your questions. Avoid interrupting the agent while they are speaking to other attendees. Wait for a suitable moment to ask your questions, or approach the agent privately.
Questions to Consider Asking
What is the asking price or price guide?
How long has the property been on the market?
Are there any known issues or defects with the property?
What are the council rates and strata fees (if applicable)?
When is the auction or closing date for offers?
Avoiding Disruptive Behaviour
Maintaining a respectful and considerate attitude is crucial for a positive open home experience.
Keep Conversations Quiet: Be mindful of the noise level when talking to others. Keep your conversations quiet and avoid shouting or talking loudly. Other attendees may be trying to concentrate or ask questions.
Avoid Blocking Access: Do not stand in doorways or block access to rooms. Allow other attendees to move freely around the property.
Refrain from Making Negative Comments: Avoid making negative comments about the property within earshot of the agent or other attendees. Even if you don't like something about the house, it's best to keep your opinions to yourself or share them privately with your partner or friends.
Limit Phone Use: Keep phone calls to a minimum while inside the property. If you need to make or take a call, step outside to avoid disturbing others.
Be Mindful of Parking: Park your car responsibly and avoid blocking driveways or obstructing traffic. Respect the neighbours and their property.
Scenarios to Avoid
Arguing loudly with your partner about the property's flaws.
Taking photos or videos without permission.
Bringing pets to the open home (unless specifically allowed).
Following Instructions from Agents
The real estate agent is there to manage the open home and ensure a smooth viewing experience. It's important to listen to and follow their instructions.
Sign In: Always sign in upon arrival. This allows the agent to keep track of attendees and follow up with you later. Provide accurate contact information.
Listen to Instructions: Pay attention to any instructions or guidelines provided by the agent. They may have specific requests or rules for viewing the property.
Respect Their Authority: The agent is in charge of the open home. Respect their authority and cooperate with their requests.
Ask for Clarification: If you are unsure about something, don't hesitate to ask the agent for clarification. They are there to help you understand the property and answer your questions.
Why Following Instructions Matters
Following the agent's instructions ensures a safe and organised viewing experience for everyone. It also demonstrates respect for the property owner and the agent's role.
Providing Honest Feedback
Providing feedback after viewing the property can be helpful for the seller and the agent. It allows them to understand what buyers are looking for and make adjustments if necessary.
Be Constructive: Frame your feedback in a constructive manner. Focus on specific aspects of the property and offer suggestions for improvement.
Be Honest: Provide honest feedback about your impressions of the property. Don't feel obligated to say you like something if you don't.
Be Respectful: Even if you have negative feedback, deliver it respectfully. Avoid being rude or offensive.
Consider the Agent's Perspective: Remember that the agent is working for the seller. They may not be able to act on all of your feedback, but they will appreciate your input.
Ways to Provide Feedback
Fill out a feedback form provided by the agent.
Send an email to the agent after the open home.
Provide feedback verbally to the agent before leaving.
Learn more about Homeopen and how we can help you with your real estate journey.
Leaving the Property as You Found It
One of the most important aspects of open home etiquette is leaving the property as you found it.
Turn Off Lights: If you turned on any lights during your viewing, be sure to turn them off before you leave.
Close Doors: Close any doors that you opened while viewing the property.
Replace Items: If you moved any items, such as cushions or books, put them back in their original place.
Dispose of Rubbish: Dispose of any rubbish you may have, such as drink bottles or wrappers, in a designated bin.
- Thank the Agent: Thank the agent for their time and assistance before you leave.
Final Thoughts
By following these open home etiquette tips, you can ensure a positive and respectful viewing experience for yourself, the property owner, and other attendees. Remember, you are a guest in someone's home, and your behaviour reflects on you. Practising good etiquette will not only make a good impression but also increase your chances of finding the perfect property. Consider our services if you need further assistance with your property search. If you have any further questions, visit our frequently asked questions page.