🏠 What to Look for at an Open House (That Most People Miss)

Attending an open house is a great opportunity to tour a property without pressure — but while most buyers are focused on kitchen finishes or how nice the backyard looks, the savvy ones are looking deeper.

If you want to make a smart investment, don’t just fall in love with the staging. Here’s what to look for at an open house that most people completely overlook:

1. Smells Can Signal Bigger Problems

Does the house smell overly scented — like air fresheners, candles, or diffusers in every room? It might not just be for ambiance. Sellers sometimes use strong scents to mask odors from pets, mold, smoke, or mildew. Trust your nose, and if something smells off, it’s worth asking about.

2. Look Up — The Ceilings Tell a Story

Water stains, bubbling paint, or cracks in the ceiling can be red flags. They might point to past (or current) roof leaks, poor ventilation, or structural issues. Many people never even look up — but you should.

3. Check the Windows and Natural Light

It’s easy to get distracted by furniture placement, but take a moment to open the blinds and inspect the windows. Are they foggy (a sign of broken seals)? Do they open and close properly? Is there good natural light, or are the lights doing all the heavy lifting?

4. Open Cabinets, Closets, and Doors

It’s not snooping — it’s smart buying. Check storage spaces to get a real sense of how functional the home is. Also, watch for signs of moisture under sinks and test interior doors to make sure they close properly. Sticky doors can signal foundation shifts.

5. Listen for Noise

Turn off the charm music and just listen. Can you hear a lot of traffic outside? Is there a noisy neighbor? A barking dog next door? Ambient noise is something you’ll live with daily — and most buyers don’t notice it until after they’ve moved in.

6. Look Beyond the Staging

That perfectly placed sectional and designer rug? They’re not staying. Try to imagine the space empty or with your own furniture. Ask: Are the rooms actually spacious? Don’t let trendy staging hide awkward layouts or lack of function.

7. Peek Around the Exterior

Even if the focus is inside, take a walk around the outside of the home. Look at the roof, siding, and gutters. Check for signs of water pooling near the foundation or cracks in the driveway. Curb appeal is great, but condition is more important.

8. Ask About the Age of Major Systems

While you’re chatting with the agent, ask about the age of the HVAC, roof, water heater, and windows. These big-ticket items can cost thousands to replace, and most buyers don’t think to ask until they’re already in contract.

Final Thought: Bring a Buyer’s Eye, Not a Dreamer’s

Open houses are designed to sell you on the dream — but your job is to spot the reality. When you know what to look for, you’re less likely to fall for a polished presentation and more likely to find a home that’s truly a good fit.

Need help navigating open houses or want a second opinion before making an offer? I’m here to guide you every step of the way.