If you're starting a search for a home, or in this area a condo, then you probably have been using websites like www.Trulia.com, www.Realtor.com, www.Zillow.com, or Craigslist to search for Hoboken properties and Jersey City open houses.
Ever wonder what happens during an open house? Does the idea give you flashbacks of pushy salesman trying to sell you something? You're not alone!
You should know that you can relax. Visiting open houses should be fun! You can view open houses on your own, or you can enlist the help of a Hoboken or Jersey City realtor to represent you and take you to open houses that just fit your criteria.At first, walking into people's home's will feel weird. But then after you've done it a few times, you'll feel like a pro.
There will always be a seller's agent present during an open house. Very rarely will the home owner actually be home. The agent's job is to answer questions and to log your attendance for security reasons. However, some agents are also looking for potential clients.
Here are 5 tips to use when viewing properties on your own:
- Sign your realtors name. Every open house will have a sign in sheet for you to fill out. Unfortunately you can't get around it. However, to keep phone calls and emails at a minimum, sign in with your realtor's name. That way you signal to the agent that you are working with someone. If you're not, leave your phone number. Most agents won't call you but many will email you to see what you thought of the place and to offer assistance.
- Grab some information. After you sign in grab an information sheet so that you have the information readily available
- Take notes. If this is a place that is in your budget, then takes notes of what you like and didn't like, how it compares to other places and note the address. This way you'll remember in the future what your feelings were about the property
- Keep your eye out for a star. If you're not working with an agent, and you are serious about your home purchase, then as you visit open houses keep an eye out for an agent that shows professionalism, is friendly, knows the area and is open to answering your questions.
- Agent representation. You should remember that the agent hosting an open house represents the seller, therefore you should be careful how much information you disclose while you are there. Try to keep the excitement down to a minimum as it could hurt you in negotiations!
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