Open House Rules Revealed

Back in 2010, I wrote a post for ActiveRain members only.  I was venting after a particularly trying Open House.  It seemed that there was so little common sense left in the world.  It was a day of me-me-me and not about respect.  I thought that it would be good to post some rules at the door of the house and then thought better of it.  Not my house – not my wish to alienate possible Buyers.  Today, almost three years later and retired from real estate, I can say for potential Buyers, spending a Sunday afternoon looking, that there are some things that are courteous – that you would want people to respect – if they were visiting your home.  Here is what Open House visitors can take into account:

1. When parking, leave the driveway free for those who may have to exit.  Try not to block the lane.  Agents will often back up to the house, in case they need a speedy retreat.  Please do not block the way.
2. Mind your children.  I ask that you keep them with you and not touching and playing with the owners things.  Accidents can happen.
3. If the house is clean, help keep it that way.  Take off your shoes (or put on the paper booties), don’t eat your snacks in the house and do not carry drinks.  It is tough getting coffee stains out of a carpet. 
4. If you are really interested, know that the agent will be thrilled to meet with you at the end of the Open House to write a contract.  Try not to occupy the agent during the Open House as part of the security during an Open House is the agent keeping an eye on everyone coming and going.
5. Although this is an Open House for sale, it is not a retail outlet.  If people are living in the house then please respect their home and not use the facilities.  Those are not public washrooms and people have phobias about germs.   If you absolutely must use the washroom, please let the agent know so that he / she can ensure that it is clean after you leave. 

Above all else, think that this may become your home and treat it as though it was your own.  

Previously posted for members as:  Open House Etiquette 

Photo credit:  Shoes

Valerie Zinger  valeriezinger@gmail.com 

Ottawa, Canada      613-859-7759