What to Look for at an Open House: 10 Pro Tips

Walking into an open house can feel exciting — and a little overwhelming. It’s easy to get caught up in the beautiful staging and forget to look past the surface. But if you know what to watch for, you’ll leave with a much better sense of whether the home is the right fit for you.

Here are 10 tips to help you make the most of every open house you visit:

1. First Impressions Matter

Before you even walk inside, take a good look at the exterior. Is the landscaping well-kept? Are there cracks in the driveway or foundation? A home’s curb appeal often hints at how well the owners have maintained the property overall.

2. Check for Smells

When you step inside, trust your nose. Strong scents like candles or air fresheners can sometimes be used to mask odors from pets, mold, or smoke. A fresh, neutral smell is usually a good sign.

3. Look Past the Staging

Beautiful furniture and trendy decor can make a space feel perfect, but remember — those items aren’t staying. Focus on the layout, the size of the rooms, and the natural lighting instead of the fancy furniture.

4. Inspect the Floors and Ceilings

Watch for signs of water damage, like stains on the ceilings or rippling in hardwood floors. These could point to bigger issues like roof leaks or plumbing problems.

5. Peek Into Closets and Storage Areas

Storage space is one of the top things buyers regret not checking! Open closets, kitchen cabinets, and the pantry to make sure there’s enough room for your needs.

6. Test the Windows

Open and close a few windows. Sticky windows might mean poor maintenance, or even worse, shifting in the home’s foundation. Plus, good windows are important for energy efficiency.

7. Check the Water Pressure

If possible, turn on a faucet or two. Low water pressure could signal plumbing issues that aren’t cheap to fix.

8. Evaluate Noise Levels

Take a moment to simply listen. Are you hearing street noise, barking dogs, or nearby construction? Think about whether you’ll be comfortable living with that background noise daily.

9. Assess the Neighborhood

An open house is a great excuse to walk around the block. Check out the neighbors’ homes, look for parks or amenities, and get a sense of the community vibe.

10. Ask Questions

Don’t be shy! Ask the hosting REALTOR® questions like:

• How old is the roof?

• Are there any recent renovations or repairs?

• How long has the home been on the market? A good agent will be happy to provide information to help you make an informed decision.

Final Thoughts

An open house is more than just a casual walkthrough — it’s a chance to imagine yourself living there and spot any red flags early on. Bring a checklist, take notes, and most importantly, trust your instincts.

If you’re planning to tour homes soon and want an expert set of eyes with you, I’m always happy to help! Reach out anytime — let’s find your perfect match together.