Shut Up! Six Things NOT to Say at an Open House

'Tis the season..... Super Bowl is upon us, and you can almost hear the screeching of rusty hinges as millions of open house signs creak-k-k-k open. Once again, the national passtime shifts from football to that all time favorite: open houses.

If you are a serious buyer, there are things NOT to say when you visit an open house. Remember, first and foremost, the agent at the open house WORKS FOR THE SELLER.  Remarks that give away your negotiating power will be noted, and might sink your chances of later buying that home on your terms.

So, smile or scowl, or do whatever you do when you are playing poker, because these are high stakes if you end up wanting to buy this house.

What Not to Say

1. "This is it! I just found my next house! We can stop looking!"

2. "We don't have an agent. Can we work with you?"

3. "We are pre-approved for $xxx,xxx."

4. "We have watched and waited for this particular house for YEARS!"

5. "We already sold our house and need to move in a hurry."

6. "My parents live a block away. This is the only home close enough so Mom can help me with the kids. We have to have it."

Any of these remarks tip your hand to the sellers, and give them a clear picture of your motivation, terms, time frames, etc. These are negotiating points, so don't give them away now!

The seller's agent will be working to get the best possible price and terms for the seller. Your agent knows how this works, and watches out for your best interests. Let them do the talking. Just smile and nod.

Play your cards "close the the vest," engage the best buyer's agent you can find (ask friends and family for referrals), and you can get the house of your dreams on terms that work best for you.