What to Look for at an Open House

Opening question: Touring an open house this weekend? What should you pay attention to beyond the pretty staging?
Snippet answer: When visiting an open house, focus on layout, condition, storage, and potential red flags, not just the fresh paint and cookies.

1. The floor plan and flow

• Imagine your daily life in the space: Is it functional for how you live?
• Pay attention to room sizes, natural light, and traffic flow, not just the décor.
  

2. Storage space

• Open closets and cabinets to see how much real storage the home actually offers.
• Don’t be afraid to peek behind the doors, serious buyers are allowed to look.
  

3. Signs of maintenance or neglect

• Look for water stains, warped floors, cracks in the walls, or musty smells.
• These may indicate bigger issues with plumbing, foundation, or ventilation.
  

4. Neighborhood and surroundings

• Step outside: How noisy is the street? What’s nearby?
• Check for sidewalks, lighting, and general upkeep of surrounding homes.
  

5. Ask questions

• If the listing agent is present, ask about age of roof, HVAC, HOA rules, and disclosures.
• Take notes or photos (if allowed) so you can remember details later.
  

Final takeaway

An open house isn’t just about how a home looks, it’s about how it functions. Keep your eyes open, ask the right questions, and don’t let good staging blind you to potential issues.