Brooklyn Buyer’s Guide to Open House Etiquette

Stepping into your Brooklyn dream home starts with mastering open house etiquette. With so many houses for sale in Brooklyn, whether you’re a seasoned homebuyer or first-time buyer, knowing how to navigate an open house can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential dos and don’ts before, during and after an open house, to ensure you leave a lasting positive impression and make the most of your visit.

Before the Open House

Research the Property

To prepare for a Brooklyn property viewing, take some time to check out the home’s online listing. Carefully review photos, videos, floor plans, listing copy and property features, and take a 3D tour if one exists. You can also review prior sales, particularly those within the same apartment line if it’s a condo or co-op, to get a sense of recent sales in the building. Additionally, look at past floor plans to see if there is flexibility in layout.

If you’ve hired a Brooklyn buyer’s agent, jot down a few questions to ask them—they can often provide additional insights about houses for sale in Brooklyn if you ask.

Understand the Market

Be aware of current Brooklyn real estate market conditions which can impact your open house strategy.

Planning for Your Visit

Ask your buyer’s agent to pre-register you. Double check the open house date and time beforehand to ensure there haven’t been any changes. On the day of the visit, arrive punctually and give yourself enough time to view the property before the scheduled end time.

Bring a measuring tape, notepad and camera (or smartphone) with you to the showing but be sure to ask permission before measuring anything or taking any photos.

Choose an outfit that strikes a balance between casual and professional—no need to dress overly formal.

Evaluate the Neighborhood

Whenever you’re touring a house for sale, consider the Brooklyn neighborhood’s amenities, schools, public transportation and overall vibe.

During the Open House

Greeting the Host

Introduce yourself to the seller’s agent or homeowner upon arrival. They’ll likely ask you to sign in and provide contact information, which helps them gather feedback later. It’s important to be truthful when filling out the form so that you’re taken seriously.

You can choose to sign in with your buyer’s broker’s information if you prefer they handle communications directly.

Respect the Property

If requested, remove your shoes or wear shoe covers. Be mindful of personal belongings and avoid causing any damage. Ask before touching anything or opening any cabinets.

Focus on evaluating the structure and potential of the home rather than small things like appliances functionality (which you can test later).

Assess the Seller’s Motivation

Understanding why the seller is moving can provide insight into flexibility on price or terms. The listing agent is not obligated to share this information, but if you ask politely, they might divulge.

Conducting Yourself Properly

A Brooklyn buyer’s agent can be of great help when it comes to asking the right questions on your behalf. Check out our last blog post on open house questions, for some ideas.

Be mindful of not obstructing others:

• Avoid blocking doorways or lingering in one room for too long
• Don’t monopolize the selling agent’s attention by asking too many questions or engaging in lengthy conversations
• Be patient and wait your turn
• Take care to avoid any unnecessary criticism or negative comments in the presence of others.

Feel free to express your genuine interest if you like the property. Listing agents remember their impressions of buyers and will pass them along to property owners.

Keep your voice at a respectable volume and try to limit personal conversations and avoid any conflicts or arguments.

Be present and try not to spend too much time looking at your cellphone. If you must take a personal call, step out for a moment as a courtesy to others.

On the way out, in never hurts to chat with neighbors or people who work in the building to find out what day-to-day life is like.

After the Open House

Follow Up with the Host

Send a courteous follow-up email or message to the selling agent, thanking them for the showing and providing any feedback. Your buyer’s agent can assist with this.

Evaluate Your Visit

Review your notes, photos, measurements and/or first impressions of the house for sale. Discuss the visit with your Brooklyn real estate agent and with any roommates or family members who will be living with you.

Consider Future Potential

Think about how the property might fit your long-term needs, including potential renovations, neighborhood growth and resale value.

Next Steps

Decide if you want a second showing or if you’d like to make an offer. Your buyer’s agent can help communicate your decision to the seller’s agent. Remember, even if you don’t bid on this property, maintaining a professional relationship with the listing agent is important—they might represent your future seller or direct you to upcoming listings.

Contingencies and Negotiations

Be aware of common contingencies (e.g., inspection, financing) and be prepared to negotiate on price, closing dates and other terms when it comes to house for sale in Brooklyn.

A Buyer’s Agent is Your Best Ally

Mastering open house etiquette is key to stepping into your Brooklyn dream home with confidence and respect. By researching the property thoroughly and planning your visit, you set a strong foundation for a successful open house experience.

During the open house, remember to greet the host politely, respect the property and conduct yourself professionally, ensuring you ask pertinent questions and navigate the space considerately.

After your visit, a courteous follow-up and careful evaluation of your impressions can guide your next steps.

Whether you’re considering a second showing or preparing to make an offer, adhering to these etiquette guidelines will help leave a positive impression and help you make informed decisions. With these tips in mind, you’ll navigate the Brooklyn real estate market with grace and ease, and potentially find the perfect home for you.

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