The real estate market in Ottawa has changed in the past couple of years. Houses and condos take a bit longer to sell and sellers and their agents have to work harder to move a property. Clearly, the sellers’ market of the recent past has now become more balanced.
In this environment, buyers are feeling more confident. But this doesn’t mean they should be disrespectful when touring an open house.
Buyers touring open houses should keep in mind some simple rules.
There is some etiquette to stick to when house hunting and below are a few good rules to keep in mind:
Sign In
Sellers justly want to know who is entering their home. For security reasons, if you refuse to sign in, some agents may refuse to let you in the door. If you are worried about being hassled by the listing agent, just add “Do not call” next to your name or write your agent’s name on the sheet.
Be Respectful To The Host
The real estate agent at an open house is a professional who is there to provide information, offer a guided tour and answer questions – treat him or her with respect.
Even if you dread dealing with agents, don’t be impolite. If the real estate agent is being aggressive at trying to solicit you as a client, tell him or her that you already have an agent.
Be Honest
Most agents expect to see some of the neighbours coming by to take a look during the open house. Being honest about your intentions will avoid the agent neglecting a real potential buyer while they are chatting with you.
Use Common Sense
- Take off your shoes. If you don’t want to be barefoot, bring along some clean slippers you can wear while looking around.
- Keep your kids in check. Make sure they don’t run around, slam doors, jump on furniture or play with any of the sellers’ belongings – including other children’s toys!
- Don’t use the bathroom. If you must, you should at least ask the agent if it is OK.
- Don’t sit on the furniture. Chances are, these items are not for sale and therefore should not be touched. In some cases a home can be staged with fake furniture such as air beds. Sitting on one may cause it to collapse!
Do Not Take Photos Or Record Videos
In most cases the home is still someone’s private residence. If there is something specific you are looking to capture, ask permission before you pull out your recording device.
Be Polite When Asking Questions
It’s fine to ask the agent about the motivations of the sellers or whether there are any offers or special assessments in the case of condos. But don’t expect the agent to reveal anything they know about the sellers’ flexibility on price. The agent is after all representing the interests of the sellers and giving you this kind of information would be going against the best interests of their clients. See Agency Relationship In Real Estate Transactions Here.
Hold The Criticism
Again, this is still someone’s home. Don’t bash it during the tour. You don’t know who may be listening – the seller, a neighbour, a friend? If the agent asks for your feedback, you can offer your opinion but do it with some class. Save the harsh critique for the car ride home.
If you are looking to buy a home, or are thinking of selling yours, I would be glad to represent you and help you negotiate the best deal. Please contact me at steve@stevewalsh.ca.
