Open houses are a great opportunity to explore homes and neighborhoods, but they’re also your chance to ask the right questions and see what pictures don’t show. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been browsing Zillow for months, these tips will help you make smarter, more confident choices.
Here are five essential open house tips that will help you shop smarter and avoid surprises later on:
1. Get Pre-Approved First
Before you fall in love with a property, make sure your financing is ready to go. A mortgage pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious and can make an offer quickly. This is especially important in Monroe County, where homes are selling in a week or less on average.
It’s also helpful for you to know your actual budget so you don’t waste time looking at homes that are out of reach.
2. Understand the Neighborhood Vibe
Each area in and around Rochester has its own feel. Spend a little time researching neighborhoods that match your lifestyle and priorities. Better yet, drive around at different times of day to get a real sense of what it’s like to live there.
3. Bring Your Agent or Loop Them In
Walking through an open house with your real estate agent is a game changer. They know what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to read between the lines of a listing. A good agent can spot red flags you might miss, like water damage, uneven floors, or poorly done DIY renovations.
4. Look Past the Decor
Don’t get distracted by cute throw pillows and trendy lighting. Focus on the layout, the storage, and how the home fits your daily routine. Is there enough space for what you actually own? Is there enough room to create the garden you’ve been dreaming about? Where is your Christmas tree going?
Ask your agent about the age of big ticket items like the roof, the windows, furnace, and water heater. Those details matter more than the staging.
5. Be Ready to Act Fast
If you love a house and it checks all the boxes, don’t wait too long. In Monroe County’s current market, hesitation can mean losing out. Offers often come in within 24–48 hours of an open house, especially on well-priced homes.
Get your financing ready and talk strategy with your agent so you’re prepared to move forward with confidence.
Brooke’s Thoughts:
Open houses are great, but I don’t recommend more than 3 in a weekend. You won’t remember which house was which!
Take pictures! Do you have a question about the black spot on the wall… picture. Do you like the layout of the bathroom…. Picture. Hate it…. Picture. Looks scary…. Picture. It's great to go back and remember but also send it to a professional to get their opinion. Or send to your realtor so they can help you write the best offer.
If you’re looking for expert guidance throughout the process, the Anthony Butera Team knows this market inside and out. I’d love to help you find your perfect match.
