Visiting open houses and show homes is fun! If you are visiting a home just to check it out – that’s cool! Let us know and we will let you do your thing. However, if you’re a serious buyer, there are a few things you should know in order to protect yourself, keep open communication and avoid misunderstandings.

First and foremost, having your own representation is important.

The seller whose open house you’re attending probably has someone working for them – so should you. If they don’t, that’s all the more reason why you should.

Buyers considering new construction should also have personal representation – the salespeople at showhome sites might appear to be there to help you, but they’re serving the builder’s interests, not yours. They are also paid on commissions at times, so make sure you have someone with you who has your best interest in mind.

If your sales representative isn’t accompanying you, bring their business card to the open house. Handing it to the hosting salesperson lets them know you already have representation, so they won’t try to solicit you, and it helps avoid future confusion about commissions and whose client you are.

It’s also a great way to keep transparency. Pretending you do not have a Realtor does not help anyone in these situations. Seriously, we are not offended knowing you are working with someones. It helps us if you want information – we can share that with you both.

Signing In

At many open houses, you’ll see a sign-in sheet or an ipad with a form will for providing your contact information. This is another handy way to let the host know you’re not looking for representation (especially if you don’t have any business cards to provide!). Just write your sales representative’s contact info down along with yours.

If you like what you see at an open house, and want more information or a private showing, tell your sales representative and let them handle the follow-up. Again, this helps eliminate any misunderstanding as to who’s representing you. It also alleviates communication for you as the open house agent can tell your representative when they can get in for private showings, open houses and anything else you may need.

Show-homes

As for show-homes, check with your sales representative before you visit any. Why? If your salesperson doesn’t accompany you, the builder may not allow them to represent you, which means you’ll have no one in your corner as you deal with the builder’s on-site rep.

Are you looking to sell your home in Saskatoon? We can help you negotiate the best price for your home.

Gregg Bamford and Ryan Bamford