When looking for a home to buy, it is wise to go to as many open houses you can as possible. You don't particularly have to like each and every home, but you will learn something from every open house to help you with your decision.
Each one is an opportunity to help you really know what you are looking for in a home. So how do you make an open house useful for your house hunting? Here are smart next steps to take after an open house according to Trulia:
If you liked the house and thinking about making an offer:
Determine your best offer
Work with your agent to come with an offer that is reasonable based on recent home sales of comparable properties in the area.
Be prepared to hurry up and wait
Sellers also need time to think about a certain offer, so expect to wait for a while. But don't worry, as soon as your agent gets something, you will be the first to know.
Don't jump the gun
When there's doubt, take your time to find that easing ground. You might feel like your offering more or not really sure if it's the house you want. Just remember these: take your time and listen to your gut.
Don't forget the inspection
You might get your offer accepted, but before celebrating, wait up for the home inspection as it may reveal some major issues that will make you walk away from the deal.
If you are on the fence:
Sleep on it
Don't push for a decision that you are not a hundred percent sure of. Nothing like a good night's rest to get your senses together and lead you to a more certain decision.
Know your must-haves
Stick to your must-haves and non-negotiables. Don't get tempted by features that you didn't even have in the list of your requirements prior.
Schedule a personal tour
Open houses can be misleading and may just represent the house in the best light. Request for a personal tour where you can do a more in-dept tour of the house; it will help to bring a friend or a family member to offer their non-bias perspective.
Consider your lifestyle
Consider the long term repercussions of your choice in relation to your lifestyle. If you are a light sleeper, you wouldn't want that house in a noisy street no matter how much you loved its gourmet kitchen.
