Open House Etiquette

Posted by:
Dennis Nottingham
October 26, 2022
9 minutes, 14 seconds
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Generally speaking, there aren't any strict rules for an Open House. However, there are some generally accepted do's and don'ts that home buyers should keep in mind:

Don't Knock, Unless Stated Otherwise

Ringing the doorbell or Knocking is unnecessary when going to an open house. Just walk right in.

Examine Home Features, Not the Personal Items

Yes, you can check the pantry and garage or even look inside the closet to see if the space is adequate for your needs. But don't snoop around and rummage through someone else's private belongings.

Check Before You Sit

Staging is typical for homes for sale, and staging furniture can look deceptively real. Avoid destroying anything; before plopping on the sofa, make sure it's real furniture.

Wait Your Turn

Wait for others viewing a room to leave before you enter, allowing everyone to see the space unimpeded.

Mind Your Young Kids

Ideally, you shouldn't bring your child as they might tip over furniture or breakables might be within their reach. But if you can't help it, make sure your kids are by your side at all times or bring someone along to help you manage your kid.

Don't Bad Mouth During the Tour

If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all. Hold your criticism on the current homeowner's taste in decor or style until after you leave.

Avoid TMI  

A little chit-chat wouldn't hurt, but keep the conversation focused on the property. Don't divulge details about your situation which might compromise your bargaining situation.

Be Polite When Asking Probing Questions

Keep your cool if the agent hosting the open house can't answer all your questions. Sometimes, the agent only fills in for the actual listing agent and won't know everything about the property. Instead of being frustrated, ask where you can get the information instead.

Listen to Your Competition

Knowledge is power, and other buyers may be your competition, but they might know something you don't know about the property. Be observant about the other guests' reactions to the home and engage in polite conversations. 

Looking for an Open House Around Indy and Surrounding Areas?  We have 7 Scheduled Open Houses this Weekend, October 22 & 23.

861 Chapel Pins Dr. W Unit # 104, Indianapolis IN 46234

October 22, Saturday from 1pm - 3pm

Hosted by: Jessica Montalvo |  (317) 912-3730

From exposed brick and wood charm to updated appliances and granite countertops, this home is definitely where modern chic and original charm meet. Have it all, on a quiet cul-de-sac, with a private covered porch, and great location, with close proximity to major highways, restaurants, shopping, schools, and more! 

2204 Woodlawn Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46203

October 22, Saturday from 2pm - 3pm

Hosted by: Brian Lunsford | 317-753-6502

October 23, Sunday from 11pm - 2pm

Hosted by: Heather Dickerson | 317-319-7084

Absolutely charming, a fully updated ranch located in the sought-after Fountain Square area. Located close to tons of amenities! A short distance to many shops and restaurants and quick ride downtown. The open floorplan features beautiful hardwoods throughout, a HUGE master walk-in closet, and an OVERSIZED tiled shower with 2 shower heads. Stainless steel appliances, a large island, and granite and butcher block countertops complete the fabulously spacious kitchen. Large Mudroom/Laundry area with a tiled floor and a washer and dryer are included. The home also offers a large 2-car garage and outside sitting area, along with a great front deck for those fun fall get-togethers.

3828 Napier Road, Bargersville, IN 46106

October 23, Sunday from 1pm - 3pm

Hosted by: Cheryl Christen | 317-514-0555

Looking for an established yet, 'like, new home in CG? This immaculate, custom ranch is quite spacious, with several builder upgrades throughout. The welcoming front porch leads to a massive foyer, past a private den/office into a huge open great room w/ gas log fireplace and beautifully appointed kitchen & dining area. The master suite features a tray ceiling, a walk-in shower, dual sinks, and more. The two family bedrooms share a jack-and-jill FULL bath with plenty of lighting. The home has custom lighting, mirrors, and blinds. The mud/computer room is close to the kitchen. Separate laundry room. The covered, oversized back patio and fully fenced backyard will surely become your favorite hang-out space or entertainment area.

 

5986 Hall Road, Plainfield, IN 46168

October 23, Sunday from 1pm - 3pm

Hosted by: Lindsey Winkhart | 317-717-4510

9167 Robey Meadows Lane, Indianapolis, IN 46234

October 23,  Sunday from 1pm-3pm

Hosted by: Cheryl Sizemore | 317-701-0838

Spacious Home in Ben Davis schools! This home has 2 living areas (one currently doing double duty as an office) nice kitchen with a large island, and a back patio area facing the end of the pond. Upstairs you will find a large loft and 3 oversized bedrooms, along with a HUGE master that includes an en-suite. Recent updates include New flooring in main areas (one year), New water heater (3 yrs), HVAC (2 years), refrigerator (4 years), and Range (this year). Extended back patio for grill placement, private rear yard. Security equipment does not stay with the home. The pergola on the back patio stays.

3946 Kristi Way, Greenwood, IN 46142

October 23, Sunday from 2pm - 4 pm

Hosted by: Rob Campbell | 317-695-1315 and Joyce Campbell | 317-691-4627

Beautiful, hard-to-find 55+ ranch paired patio home w/walkout basement! The home backs up to a tree-lined creek for a lovely view. Ready to move right in, immediate possession, freshly painted interior. Within 2 yrs: new dishwasher, water softener, garage door opener, luxury vinyl waterproof plank flooring. Lower level has 2nd kitchen, refrigerator, lots of closet & storage space, bedroom 3 w/full accessible bath, living area & opens to lower patio. Chairlift on stairway stays. Spacious Great Room w/gas fireplace opens to new deck overlooking fenced backyard. Master BR w/dual closets, full private bath w/double sinks. Low-maintenance living includes trash removal, lawn care, & snow removal for a low monthly fee. Amazing, cozy neighborhood!

1389 Turkington Court, Greenwood, IN 46143

October 23, Sunday from 3pm - 5pm

Hosted by: Anthony King | 317-658-4547

This beautiful two-story home within a Cul-De-Sac in Center Grove township features an open concept living area w/ large eat-in kitchen w/ SS Appliances, Hardwood Laminate throughout, Dual bathroom vanities, large kitchen pantry, 9ft custom ceilings, all appliances stay, and much more... Schools, Shopping centers, and the Greenwood Mall is just minutes away!


Come by and visit our agents for a tour! Don't forget to follow our social media pages for real estate tips, open house schedules, and more.

Facebook: @remaxadvancedrealtyIN

Instagram: @remaxindy

Twitter: @REMAXAdvancedIN 

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