When you're trawling through open houses, it's easy to forget that you're actually entering someone's home. So keep in mind these etiquette tips when searching for your next property.

Pleasing parking
Be considerate when parking – to the vendor and their neighbours. Never park in the vendor’s driveway and be sure to park on the street and not within any property boundaries.

Present your ID
Unfortunately, theft can occur during open homes, despite an agent’s best attempts to keep an eye on visitors. Therefore, some agents may ask to see ID before allowing you in the home, although this isn’t yet commonplace. You are going into someone’s private space and you’re already expected to give your name and phone number – this is just the next step in ensuring a secure inspection for the vendor.

Mind the kids
Children are always welcome at open homes, but you must make sure they are well behaved. If kids are running amok, the agent has a right to ask you as the parent to rein them in or leave. And be sure they keep their little hands to themselves to avoid accidents.

Hands off the loo
Go to the toilet before hitting the open home. As a rule, you can’t use the bathroom in the house – it’s just not manners – but if it’s an emergency some agents may allow it. If it is, always ask for permission first.

No room for nosiness
The general rule of thumb is that any permanent fixtures, such as built-in cupboards, pantries and kitchen drawers, can be checked for storage space, but it’s best to ask for permission to open these fixtures if the agent is handy. It is never okay to rifle through anything else – for example, dresser drawers and freestanding wardrobes are definitely off limits.

Fed up
Taking food and coffee into an inspection is a no-no. So finish your latte and doughnut before arriving at the house, or leave it in the car.

Be punctual
It’s important to be on time. Arrive early and you may beat the agent, making the home owner feel very uncomfortable. Turn up late and the agent may have already had to rush off to his or her next open home, so you could miss out on an inspection altogether.

Don’t touch
Remember you are entering someone else’s home, so show the owner the same courtesy you would expect if your home was on the market. Where possible, look but definitely don’t touch, especially when it comes to personal items, such as pictures, books and CDs.

No pets please
Even though Fido may be an important part of your family, he isn’t welcome at an open home, no matter how well-trained he is.

Butt out
Smoking is a definite no-no at open homes. Be courteous and finish your cigarette before approaching the property. Otherwise you could end up in an uncomfortable discussion with the agent, who is bound to ask you to bin your butts.

Play nice
Don’t ever ridicule or make fun of a home, its features, the furniture or a vendor’s personal affects or taste – it’s just bad manners. The vendors may be present at the inspection and the last thing you want to do is insult and embarrass them in their own home. Save your comments for the car ride home.