Attending an open home is a key step in your property purchase journey. Preparation and knowing what to ask and look for will help you maximise your visit. Here is a guide on how to make the most of an open home.

Do your research

Before you head to the open home do your homework and spend time researching the property. Check listing details carefully to see if these throw up any questions and look at the history of the property changing hands. Go to Google Maps for an aerial view, research recent sales of similar sized properties in the area and write down in advance what you want to ask the agent. If you like what you see before you go to the open home, check with the agent to see if a contract of sale is available so you can understand if there are any conditions.

Arrive on time

Open homes can attract many people and are usually for a short 30 or 45 minute period. Arrive at the property slightly early so you can be at the front door right on time. This will ensure you can make the most of the time window to inspect the property and talk to the agent. Always be mindful you are in someone else’s house. Take off your shoes if this is requested and avoid touching personal items. Register your contact details with the agent. In addition to this being a security requirement, you will be alerted about any sale process changes and further open home sessions.

Be clear on what to look for

Don’t get distracted by superficial things, such as modern furniture, rugs or fresh coats of paint. A building report later can look at structural features. Use the visit to look at other important elements such as:

• The direction the house faces and the abundance of natural light
• The state of key areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms
• Storage spaces throughout the property
• Signs of building movement, dampness and water damage
• The condition of floor coverings, fixtures and fittings, as well as windows
• Usable space if there is a backyard
• Privacy from neighbours

Come prepared to engage with the agent

Use the opportunity to ask the agent questions, including:

• Why the owner is selling
• About the property’s sale history
• The vendor’s preferred settlement date
• Whether there are any issues with the property
• Whether any renovations have recently been completed
• The cost of rates, body corporate fees and/or utilities

If you like the property, ask about the owner’s price expectations. This is one of the most common questions buyers ask. If the house is selling by auction or deadline, it can be difficult to know what price it will fetch under the hammer or at deadline. The best advice for buyers is to do your research. Salespeople can usually provide a list of recent sales in the area. Consider going along to a few local auctions to get an idea of what houses are selling for. Remember that every house is different and you just have to be ready to make your best offer on the day.

Check out the neighbourhood

A property should not be considered in isolation; the state of the neighbourhood is also important. Take the time to walk the streets near the property, look for nearby parks, shops, public transport and other amenities, and talk to people you meet about what it is like to live there. Come back at different times of the day including peak traffic times so you can gauge any congestion, parking or noise issues and be confident about any next steps you may make.

Whether you want to buy, sell or rent a property, don’t hesitate to contact your local Raine & Horne office.