What to Expect When Touring Houses

Buying a home is exciting, and for many buyers, touring houses is one of the most enjoyable parts of the process. But it is important to remember that when you are looking at a home for sale, you are still a guest in someone else’s space. Following a few simple showing steps can make the experience more comfortable for everyone while also protecting you as a buyer.

One of the first things to pay attention to is the seller’s instructions. Some sellers will ask that we remove our shoes, while others will not. However, even if there is no specific instruction, removing your shoes when it is wet, muddy or snowy outside is simply a thoughtful thing to do. So come prepared with shoes that are easy to slip on and off and follow your agent’s instructions.

You should also assume that there could be cameras or other recording devices in the home. It is illegal in NYS to record a third party conversation without prior consent so some homes may require us to sign a form in advance. But with cameras becoming increasingly popular, it’s generally safer to assume we may be recorded. Be mindful of what you say while you are touring. We don’t want to offend the sellers, but you also don’t want to make comments that could hurt your negotiating position later. For example, if you walk into a house and immediately announce that it is your dream home and you would pay anything to get it, that information could potentially make its way back to the seller. You can certainly discuss your thoughts and impressions with your agent, but it is wise to save detailed negotiations and strategy for a private conversation.

It is often best to leave children home when possible. If they do come along, they should be able to stay with the adults and follow instructions throughout the showing. It can be hard for you to focus on seeing the house and picturing yourself there if you are distracted. Depending on their age, children can also become attached to every house they see, which can make the process more difficult when you ultimately decide a particular property isn't right for you.

Regardless of the age group with us, we will all need to stay together during the showing. As strangers walking through someone else's home, we want to make sure that we are as respectful as possible. If something is accidentally broken or a seller later says something is missing, I want to be able to honestly say you were with me the entire time. This shows them respect and protects you, the buyer.

As you tour, it is perfectly appropriate to open kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities and other storage areas that will remain with the home. Buyers need to understand the available storage space. There is a difference, however, between examining built-in storage and opening personal belongings. Items such as a seller's dresser drawers, are not appropriate to open because their dresser does not remain with the house.

Finally, leave the home exactly as you found it unless the showing instructions tell you otherwise. If a light was on, leave it on. If a door was closed, close it again. If there are indoor cats, make sure they remain indoors. And if you notice something that seems unusual or concerning—a water leak, a heating issue in the winter or another potential problem—let your agent know. Your agent should communicate the concern to the listing agent so the seller has an opportunity to address it.

A little courtesy and common sense can make showing homes a better experience for buyers, sellers and agents alike. Most importantly, it allows you to focus on what you are really there to do: determine whether the house feels like the right place for you to call home.