Open house checklist for buyers

Quick insights

• Consider bringing essentials like a notebook, measuring tape and a list of must-haves to stay focused and organized while assessing features like appliances, room sizes and natural lighting.
• Look for red flags like odors, water damage and faulty or old systems.
• Inquire about the property’s history, neighborhood and running costs to make an informed decision before making an offer.

Are you ready to find your dream home? Open houses provide a great opportunity to explore, envision your future and sometimes ask questions. To make the most of an open house, a clear checklist is worth preparing. This guide will provide tips that can help you evaluate the property and make informed decisions as you consider taking the next steps in your homebuying journey.

What to bring to an open house

When visiting an open house, preparation might make all the difference in evaluating whether the property is right for you.

• Notebook and pen: Important for jotting down details, questions and impressions that you can review later.
• Camera or smartphone: For taking photos or videos (with the agent’s permission) to help recall specific features or issues after you leave.
• Measuring tape: To help measure room sizes, doorways or other spaces to ensure your belongings will fit in the home.
• Documentation and identification: It’s not always required, but bring a government-issued ID in case the listing agent requests it.

Open house checklist for buyers: What to look for

A thorough checklist can help you identify how well a listing meets your needs, or if there are dealbreakers you didn’t anticipate. Here’s how you can organize your open house checklist.

House condition and functionality checklist

When attending an open house, look beyond the surface and evaluate key aspects of the property.

• Structural integrity: Look for cracks in walls, sagging ceilings, uneven floors or water stains. All of this could indicate foundational or water damage issues. Check the exterior for cracks in the foundation, damaged siding or loose roof shingles.
• Windows and doors: Ensure all windows and doors open and close easily. Look for drafts around windows or gaps in door frames, which may require repairs or replacements.
• Plumbing and water pressure: Turn on faucets to test water pressure and for any unusual sounds or discoloration. Look under sinks for signs of leaks or water damage and test the toilets to ensure they flush properly.
• Electrical systems: Flip light switches to check if they work and examine the electrical panel for modern circuit breakers rather than outdated fuses. Look for an adequate number of outlets in each room to suit your needs.
• Heating and cooling systems: Ask about the age and maintenance history of the HVAC system. Look for visible signs of wear on vents, filters or radiators.
• Odors and ventilation: Take note of any unpleasant odors, as they may indicate mold, mildew or poor ventilation.
• Kitchen and bathroom condition: Inspect countertops, cabinets and fixtures for damage or wear. Check if tiles are cracked or loose and look for grout discoloration that may indicate water seepage.
• Storage space: Open closets, cabinets and other storage areas to ensure they are adequate for your belongings. Check for signs of pests or damage.
• Noise levels: Pay attention to any outside noise from traffic, neighbors or nearby construction that may impact your comfort.

Features and amenities checklist

When touring a home, use this checklist to evaluate key features and ensure the property aligns with your needs.

• Appliances: Check the condition and functionality of the refrigerator, stove, dishwasher and washer/dryer.
• Electrical outlets: Test outlets in each room to ensure they work and are conveniently placed for your needs.
• Room size: Evaluate whether each room will comfortably accommodate your furniture and lifestyle.
• Natural light: Assess how much natural light the rooms receive. This characteristic of a home can’t be changed without significant renovations.
• Flooring: Examine for scratches, stains or unevenness that could indicate deeper issues.
• Neighborhood: Take note of the surrounding area, including noise levels, nearby amenities and parking availability.

Questions to ask the real estate agent

When attending an open house, the listing agent may be present and available for questions. Otherwise, your agent can ask after the open house ends. Either way, it’s important to be prepared with certain questions to get a full picture of the property:

• Property history: How old is the home? Have there been any significant renovations or repairs?
• Heating and cooling: What kind of heating and cooling systems are installed? How old are they, and are they energy-efficient?
• Packages and mail: How are packages and mail handled in this area? Are there secure delivery options for residents?
• Utilities and running costs: What are the average utility costs? Are there any additional fees like homeowners' association dues or property taxes?
• Neighborhood and community: What are the local schools like? Are there parks, shopping centers or community events nearby? What’s the crime rate?
• Amenities: What amenities come with the property (pool, gym, parking)? Are they included in the cost or come with additional fees, such as an HOA fee?
• Future developments: Are there any planned construction projects or zoning changes that could affect property value or living conditions?

Open house red flags

When exploring a home, these are examples of potential warning signs:

• Odors and fresh paint: A strong smell or fresh paint could mask underlying issues like mold, mildew or water damage.
• Poor drainage: Signs of pooling water around the foundation or yard could indicate drainage problems that may lead to costly repairs.
• Faulty roof: Look for missing shingles, sagging areas or signs of water leakage in the attic, as these could point to roof issues.
• Pest problems: Visible signs like droppings, nests or damaged wood might mean there’s a pest infestation.
• Cracks or uneven surfaces: Cracks in walls or uneven floors might suggest structural issues that could be expensive to fix.
• Outdated systems: Check if plumbing, electrical or HVAC systems are old and in need of replacement.

After the open house: Buyer tips and next steps

Once you’ve attended the open house, these steps can help you move forward with confidence:

• Review your notes and photos: Take time to assess the details you recorded during the visit. This can help you compare properties and prioritize what matters most.
• Request a second viewing: If the property is still a contender, arrange a private showing. This allows you to inspect the home more thoroughly without the distractions of a crowd.
• Consult with a home inspector: Hire a professional home inspector to check for hidden issues that could affect the home’s value or your long-term costs.
• Discuss with your real estate agent: Share your impressions, raise any concerns and develop an offer strategy based on the property’s condition, market conditions and your budget.

In conclusion

Attending an open house can be a critical step at any point in the homebuying process. By asking the right questions, being vigilant for red flags and carefully reviewing your observations afterwards, you can make an informed decision. You can use the checklist in this guide to help you stay organized and confident throughout your journey to finding the perfect home.