Open houses are a great way to see what’s out there in the
market and what your money can buy for you. The best part: you don’t need an
appointment, or even your own agent, to attend one! Open houses can be an eye
opener in helping you gauge the market and help you learn the reality behind
listing language. Open houses can also be the perfect opportunity to strike up
a relationship with a REALTOR® if you don’t already have one. You’ll see
exactly how that REALTOR® markets a home and be able to ask questions. If you
don’t like that particular house, the agent may know of another one that fits
your wants and needs better. There are plenty of articles out there on what the
sellers should do during an open house, but potential buyers should also follow
good manners when touring homes. Here’s some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind
when attending an open house.
Do show up as early as possible. An agent will have more
time to spend with you and answer any questions you may have.
Don’t wait until last minute to arrive. If you can’t make
the open house with plenty of time to look around, call the agent and arrange a
personal showing.
Do ask questions. Have offers been made? Is there a
Homeowners Association and yearly fee? If the price has dropped, why? These are
all important questions, and a potential buyer should ask them.
Don’t monopolize with endless questions during a busy open
house. You can always follow-up later.
Do answer questions that an agent may ask you such as features you want, price range,
and whether you own a home already. Keep communication open; you never know,
they may know just the home right for you.
Don’t provide too much information such as income, when you
need to move or how your search is going.
Do dress appropriately in clean, casual clothes. Although
you won’t be turned away if you show up in a bikini and flip flops, agents will
be less likely to look at you as a responsible buyer.
Don’t open closed doors or cabinets without asking first.
Don’t talk badly about a property in front of the agent; if there’s something
you don’t like, wait until you leave to discuss. And NEVER make use of the
bathrooms.
Do check for dampness, foundation cracks or outdated
plumbing and electrical.
Don’t buy a house you think has water problems.
Do drive around the area to get a feel for the neighborhood.
If you have children, look for signs of other kids their age to play with.
Don’t overlook landscaping issues, which could include old,
dead trees that can be costly to remove.
Angela Barrett, "A Different Kind of Real Estate"
Angela Barrett is a local REALTOR® in Lexington, SC. Every day, she has the privilege of working with Buyers and Sellers around and on Lake Murray - Lexington, Gilbert, Chapin, and Irmo. It is her goal to help every buyer find the perfect home, and every seller sell at the best price possible. Exit Real Estate Consultants opened its doors in 2008 and has been the local expert since. Angela says, "she works with a wonderful group at EXIT and is proud to be a REALTOR® for a company that prides itself on being a "family helping families."
What makes Angela different from other Realtors is her desire to combine a love of real estate with the truth. She may not always tell you what you want to hear but will ALWAYS tell you what you need to hear. Before getting into the real estate industry, she owned her own court reporting business for 14 years. She decided to change careers because it was her desire to help others with their housing needs in a way that was honest and truthful, a way that put their needs ahead of the sale. Her business is built on Dedication, Communication, Determination & Trust while embodying the ability to cater and adapt to all of her client's Real Estate needs. She says the best part of her business is the people she meets and the ability to assist them throughout the process. Her goal is not only finding the hidden gem or selling at the right price but giving her clients peace of mind that they will work together through every detail.
Angela showcases her homes on her website and utilizes professional service providers to assist with her clients' buying and selling needs, including tips for staging and recommendations for painters, designers, handymen, and inspectors. She is communicative, thorough, and detail-oriented, and she'll be with you every step of the way!
Angela made Lexington home 28 years ago. She is knowledgeable about the area and feels blessed to call Lexington her home. Angela enjoys showing her clients around “Miss Murray”, the Jewel of South Carolina, and when she’s not helping someone with their real estate needs, she enjoys going to the gym, running, spending time on Lake Murray, and a little photography.
Looking to buy or sell a home in the Lake Murray area? Call Angela Barrett, who not only represents “A Different Kind of Real Estate" but also a different kind of REALTOR®.
View all posts by Angela Barrett, Realtor ExitREC