5 things to check before planning a home visit

Would you like to take part in an open house for a home for sale? Before you visit, it's a good idea to contact the owners to confirm some information with them. 

Answers to the following questions will give you a better idea of what to expect and the conditions of sale. That way, you can avoid unnecessary visits and perhaps some disappointments.

Summary:

• The open house
• 1. Is the property still for sale?
• 2. When will the property be available?
• 3. Can I check some important information?
• 4. Has an inspection been conducted?
• 5. What's the best time to visit?
• FAQ

The open house

An open house is an opportunity for potential buyers to visit a property without having to make an appointment in advance. During an open house, visitors can go directly to the property at a specified time and explore it at their own pace. This formula is often used by property owners to attract as many interested parties as possible. It also allows visitors to better appreciate the space and features of the property in a more relaxed setting. 

1. Is the property still for sale?

First, check if the property if still for sale. It’s a formality, but the owner may have accepted an offer to purchase and just needs to meet the notary before making the sale official.

In this case, the property will only be listed as sold once the conditions of purchase have been met and the transaction has been completed.

2. When will the property be available?

It’s important to find out whether the possession date the owner is thinking of suits your needs. Do you need to move in quickly? Or can you wait a few months before moving into a new home?

Knowing the owner’s intentions will avoid any unpleasant surprises. You may be disappointed if you find out the owner can’t move for whole year.

3. Can I check some important information?

Confirm that the information in the property listing is accurate: the asking price and number of bedrooms, for instance. For a condo, ask about the co-ownership rules and whether it’s a divided or undivided co-ownership.

Then ask about features you can't see in the photos, such as storage space and the neighbourhood atmosphere.

4. Has an inspection been conducted?

Ask the owner if an inspection has been conducted. If so, what did it reveal? If you find out that the property is in poor condition, you may reconsider visiting. If additional costs are needed, it’s better to know beforehand. You can then decide if the property is the right fit despite the work that needs doing.

5. What’s the best time to visit?

The ideal time to visit a property during an open house depends on what you're looking for: 

At the beginning This is often the best time if you want to get a complete overview of the property before other visitors arrive. You'll have more time to explore each room, ask the owners questions and take notes without being interrupted. 

In the middle Going on a self-guided tour at this time can offer a good balance. You avoid the initial crowds, but you'll still have plenty of time to ask questions and inspect the property in detail. It's also a good time to observe how the property is perceived by other visitors, which can give you an indication of the demand for the home. 

At the end If you choose to visit at the end, you may benefit from the opportunity to get more detailed answers and additional information from the owners, who will have had more time to chat with previous visitors. However, you may also find the property more crowded and run out of time to ask questions. 

For the best experience, it's often best to start your visit early to maximize your time and attention. 

Satisfied with the answers? Then read our list of questions to ask, to make sure your visit is as efficient as possible. If you want to sell your property, here's how to prepare your own open house.

FAQ

How do I organize an open house? 

Choose an attractive date and time slot. Announce the event via the appropriate channels (websites, social networks). Prepare the property by cleaning and enhancing it. Welcome visitors on site, provide clear information and collect interested contacts. 

How do I assess the condition of a house? 

To assess the condition of a property, examine the key structures: roof, walls, foundations, and fixtures (plumbing, electrical, heating). Inspect interior finishes, floors and windows. Check for signs of damage or damp.

What questions should I ask before buying a property? 

What is the general condition of the property and what work is required? What are the running costs and charges? Are there any neighborhood or nuisance problems? What are the reasons for the sale? What is the market price? 

Want to keep the commission in your pocket? Sell with the help of DuProprio's visibility and support services! To find out more, watch our short video or schedule a call with one of our advisors.