Open Houses

Open houses are still a common way for buyers to get inside houses of interest on Sunday afternoons. Many agents hold houses open every Sunday but don't always advertise them in advance. In Columbus, the HER Real Living Website (herrealtors.com) is a good place to find open houses listed. You can search by community and it will list every HER open house as long as the agent has added it online. Realtor.com is another place to check for open houses. The Sunday paper lists a few in the Columbus area but not many compared to the past. The paper is just not the place for real estate like it used to be. When a house is open you are encouraged to visit. Remember it is also a way for Realtors to meet potential clients and actually a good way for unattached buyers to be able to meet a number of Realtors in a neutral setting. If you already have an agent, tell the Realtor at the open house and they won't pressure you. If you don't have an agent, feel free to carry on a conversation and get to know them. You will want to work with someone you are comfortable with and if you are seriously thinking of buying, you should have an agent to represent you and your best interests. It doesn't cost you anything - the Seller pays the commission. In this market, having an agent can help you get the best price on the home you want and you will have someone working for you to make sure you are protected and everything goes smoothly.