You just attended an open house. Now what? Here are a list of things we think are important to think about before you make your decision:
If You Loved The Home:
- Determine your best offer – Work with your real estate agent to identify your initial bid, look up the home’s history, and factor in needed repairs.
- Wait and be patient – As soon as your agent hears something, you’ll be the fist to know.
- Don’t ignore your budget – It’s better to hold out for a home you can afford than to go broke over a rushed decision.
- Remember the inspection – If the sellers refuse to address major problems, you might need to walk away.
If You’re Not Sure:
- Sleep on it – If you are not 100% sure, get a good night’s rest and see how you feel in the morning.
- Know your deal-breakers – Which features match up on your list? Which don’t?
- Go back for a personal tour – Take a second to look with your agent, and bring a friend who can bring a fresh perspective and honest opinion.
- Consider your lifestyle – When you imagine yourself living in the home, is it still a good fit?
- Think about add-ons – Does the home need any updates or repairs? What will maintenance entail? Consider all the extras to see if the home still feels like a good deal.
- Revisit at a different time of the day – Make sure the property and the neighborhood suits you at all times around the clock.
- Trust your gut – If your inner voice of reason is chattering away, try to figure out what it’s telling you.
If You Did Not Like the Home:
- Identify the issues you did not like – Remember them when you visit new listings.
- Broaden your horizons – Expand your search into areas or features you haven’t yet considered.
- Don’t settle – There’s a big difference between making a few small compromises and making a big mistake you’ll have to live with for years.
Source: Zillow