How do I plan my 1st open house visit?

[drewkawa_IHB]

ok... all kidding aside the idea of going to an open house is quite intimidating to me. I feel like I'm a complete idiot next to real estate pro. (or at least someone who has more experience than me.)



I've read the (New Members Start Here) and it gave me great insight, but could I request a guide to going to your first open house?





<strong>Ideas</strong>:



1. Homework to be done beforehand.

2. Questions to ask the agent

3. Questions to ask about the listing

4. Things to look for structually (good and bad)





Thanks everybody!





Drew

 

[awgee_IHB]

IMO, you do not have to do any homework or be prepared in any manner.

Just go and look and have a good time.

The realtor is there to try and recruit you as a client to show houses to, so you do not need to ask him/her any questions.

The realtor will ask you where do you live now. And what size home are you looking for. They are trying to engage you to get you as a client. I tell them where I live, and I tell them honestly that I am not looking for any home. I am just nosy and curious.

 

[SoCal78_IHB]

Well, I like to look for signs of foundation issues. I bring along a marble and rest it on hard surface flooring to see if it rolls off in one direction constantly. Also, I check to see if any doors jam, if windows bind, if there are cracks at the corners of windows or doors, I check outside to see if there is any standing water next to the house, where water runs off, etc, etc. If I highly suspect there is a problem I may move on to the next house and not even bother paying money for an inspection. But, that is just me. There are a lot of other little details I like to look for if I'm serious about the place. It depends why you are going, though... to buy? To just get an idea of the floorplan in case another one comes up? Just for weekend entertainment? The reason to go will determine what you should be prepared for. Have fun.

 

[caycifish_IHB]

I bring a camera, and if I am serious about buying a measuring tape and a notebook. (I have items of furniture or electronics that require a certain amount of wall space.)



On occasion I also bring a totebag with 5 inch heels and a lacy thong. I don't recommend that for everyday open houses, however.