Open homes go quickly, and when you're excited it's easy to forget to look at the things that matter. A little preparation makes your visit far more useful.
Before you go
- Read the listing and check the address and street on a map
- Bring your must-have list, so you can tick things off
- Write down a few questions to ask the agent
- If you can, view at a time of day that shows the home at its best and its busiest
Look at the outside first
Walk around the outside before you go in. Look at the roof, gutters, cladding, fencing and drainage. Notice the neighbours, the noise and where you'd park.
Inside
- Check for damp, musty smells and condensation on windows
- Test the taps, switches and doors as you go
- Look at how the home is heated, and how warm it feels
- Notice the natural light in the rooms you'd use the most
- Open cupboards and look at storage
- Check the ceilings and walls for stains or cracks
Questions worth asking
- How long has it been on the market?
- What's included in the sale?
- Are there any reports available, such as a building report?
- What's the sale method, and what are the dates?
Afterwards
Jot down notes straight away while it's fresh. With several homes in a day, they can quickly blur together. If you loved it, go back for a second look and, if you can, at a different time of day.
Quick tip
Ask before you take photos. Most people are happy for you to, but it's polite to check first.
This is general information only, not legal, financial or building advice. Rules and market conditions change, so check the details with your lawyer, lender or the relevant authority before making decisions.
