The home-buying journey is exciting and gives curious-minded buyers the opportunity to personally view countless properties. More often than not, however, the seller is still living in the home and deserves that their privacy be respected. With so many unwritten rules, how does a buyer know what is acceptable during a private viewing or an open house? Read our answers to buyers most frequently asked questions about home-viewing etiquette.
Can I Bring My Kids?
Buyers are free to bring their children when they are viewing homes, but is it the best idea? Keeping an eye on busy little ones can be very distracting to parents viewing a home. Ideally, buyers should take their time when looking at properties. Additionally, it might be difficult for children to keep their hands to themselves in someone else’s home. If it’s not possible to find someone to watch the children, buyers should keep their young ones close by, not allowing them to roam freely or disturb other people viewing the property.
Can I Use The Washroom in the Home?
While viewing someone’s property, rules of etiquette would suggest avoiding using the seller’s washroom. If it really cannot wait, however, it is best to ask the real estate agent on duty for permission. The bathroom should be left in the same condition as it was found.
Can I Look in Closets and Cupboards?
It’s important to ensure that there’s enough storage space in the home, without going through someone else’s private belongings. If the storage area is affixed to the property (eg. bathroom and kitchen cabinets), then it is acceptable to have a look and take measurements if desired. If the area is attached to something the buyer will take with them (eg. dresser drawers), then etiquette would be to steer clear. Looking through belongings is always off-limits and it’s also very important not to disturb any items that the seller has sitting on display in the home.
Can I Take Photographs or Videos in the Home?
Just as one should ask permission to use a washroom within the home, it is proper etiquette to ask if it is okay to take photos/videos of the property being viewed. The seller may have particular reasons why they do not wish for their home to be photographed.
Do I Need To Leave My Name If I Visit An Open House?
The purpose of an open house is show the property to the maximum number of buyers. The sign-in sheet allows the sales agent to show the sellers the names of those who attended the open house. However, this process entirely depends on the wishes of the seller. If a seller asks for name and photo ID, this must be provided before entering the home. If a buyer does not wish to be contacted post viewing, they can indicate this on the sign-in sheet. Alternatively, if a buyer is already engaged in a contract with another real estate agent, they are free to sign in and leave their agent’s business card with the selling agent.
