MPP sheds light on the unwritten rules of open houses and asks, what is the correct protocol when entering a seller’s home?

RESPECT  THE TIME:

As a seller or inspecting buyer, be mindful of  the scheduled open for inspection (OFI) time. Real estate agents generally have  a full day of scheduled OFIs, which means they don’t necessarily have the time to wait around after the time slot to cater for those who can’t manage to get there on time. If you want to inspect the property and are running a little late, phone the agent and discuss it with him or her before turning up right on the finishing time.  As a seller you need to ensure you have  the home tidy and ready for presentation at  least half an hour before the scheduled OFI  time. As Jan Withers (pictured) from Belle Property says, Saturdays are generally an agent’s busiest day. “Agents are often in a rush when they arrive and prefer not to be caught up chatting to the sellers when buyers start arriving.”

MIND YOUR HANDS AND SHOES:

It’s simple – leave your shoes at the door and keep your hands to yourself when inspecting someone’s house. It’s just common etiquette. Remember, you are in someone else’s home,  so don’t gawk at the photos on the wall or  inspect the clothes in the walk-in robe. If you want to look inside cupboards or behind closed doors, or even take some measurements, ask the agent if it’s okay first.  

WATCH THE LITTLE ONES:

While it’s fine to bring children along to OFIs,  it’s imperative they are closely monitored and well behaved. It’s not good etiquette to allow children to play with the toys in the third bedroom, jump around on the swings in the backyard or run up and down the hallways. Be mindful of the other people inspecting the home and of the home owners, who may cherish their antique glassware or fine china dinner set.

LEAVE YOUR SIGNATURE:

Unfortunately theft can occur during OFIs despite an agent’s best attempts to keep an  eye on all visitors. Some agents may require a signature and ID when entering the home to keep a record of who’s there, and as a general etiquette procedure, it’s advisable to make yourself known to the agent before having a good look around.  As a seller, ensure that all valuables, including jewellery, are safely locked away and out of view of visitors.

ZIP THE LIPS:

Remember, if the property doesn’t suit your needs or the decor is not to your taste that doesn’t mean it may not suit the needs and tastes of others, so keep your opinions to yourself. As a potential buyer, there is no need to point out the small bedrooms, peeling paintwork or lack of street appeal. Any constructive feedback should be discretely discussed with the agent as this feedback forms a valuable part of the sales process for the seller. Remember, the home is open for inspection, not scrutiny.

WORK ON YOUR PRESENTATION:

First impressions are important, so as a  seller wanting the  best possible price,  it’s wise to make sure your home is well presented for the inspections. Remove  any clutter and store  away all of the appliances on the kitchen bench, take magnets and flyers off the fridge and ensure all walkways and living spaces are clear of toys, magazines and books. Ensure the windows are clean to allow in the natural light and keep doors and windows open to allow for ventilation.

If you regularly hire the services of a pool maintenance team, a cleaner or a landscaper, make sure they are scheduled to come just before your OFIs to make sure the home is  in optimum condition for the inspections. You may even consider engaging the services of  a home stylist – it’s surprising to learn that furniture can quite often help sell a home.

Jamie Holbrook (pictured) is from Property Today. He says first impressions are vital. “Naturally it is important to have the home clean, dishes away and beds made etcetera, but  it is all about making the front of your property as attractive as possible so that a prospective buyer wants to take the time to view your home. I suggest that sellers walk out onto the street, look at your property and ask yourself if there  is anything you can do to make the front look more appealing.”