Open House Dos
Following these guidelines will help you navigate open houses with confidence and make a positive impression.
Sign In Politely
When you arrive, sign in at the door with your name and contact information. If you have a buyer's agent, include their name so the listing agent knows you are represented. This is standard practice and helps the agent track attendance for the seller.
Remove Your Shoes
In Canada, removing shoes when entering a home is expected. Look for a shoe mat near the entrance or ask the agent. Wear clean socks and be prepared — this is not optional in most Canadian homes, especially during winter months.
Ask Questions Thoughtfully
Prepare a list of questions before you arrive. Ask about the age of major systems (roof, furnace, windows), utility costs, neighbourhood amenities, and why the seller is moving. Be polite and respectful in your questioning.
Take Your Time
Allow yourself 20 to 30 minutes per property. Walk through each room carefully, check the basement and exterior, and take notes. Rushing through means you might miss important details about the home's condition and layout.
Ask Before Photographing
Photos help you compare homes later, but always ask the listing agent for permission first. Focus on the property features — rooms, layout, condition — and avoid capturing personal belongings, family photos, or security systems.
Observe the Neighbourhood
Arrive early or stay after to walk around the block. Note the condition of neighbouring homes, street parking, noise levels, and proximity to parks, schools, and transit. The neighbourhood is just as important as the home itself.
Open House Don'ts
Avoid these common mistakes to show respect for the seller's property and the listing agent's time.
Don't Open Closed Doors Without Asking
If a room door is closed, ask the listing agent before opening it. Some rooms may contain personal items, be occupied by pets, or be intentionally excluded from the showing. Always respect boundaries.
Don't Touch Personal Belongings
Resist the urge to look through medicine cabinets, open drawers, or handle personal items. Remember that this is someone's home and their personal space should be respected during the visit.
Don't Criticise the Home Loudly
Even if the home has issues, keep negative comments to yourself until you leave. The listing agent will report your reactions to the seller, and negative remarks could affect your negotiating position if you decide to make an offer.
Don't Discuss Your Budget
Never reveal your maximum budget, financing details, or how desperately you want the home to the listing agent. This information could be used against you in negotiations. Keep financial discussions between you and your own agent.
Don't Bring Uninvited Guests
Limit your group to two or three people. Large groups can feel overwhelming in a home and make it difficult for other visitors to view the property. If family members want to see the home, consider arranging a private showing.
Don't Use the Washroom
Unless it is an emergency, avoid using the washroom at an open house. It is considered a private space, and it is not ideal to leave evidence of your visit. Plan accordingly before attending multiple open houses.
Children and Pets at Open Houses
Special considerations for families visiting open houses with young children or pets.
Bringing Children
- Older children who understand boundaries are welcome
- Supervise young children closely at all times
- Consider childcare if children are very young
- Do not let children run, play, or touch items
Pets Policy
- Do not bring pets to open houses
- Pets can cause damage or trigger allergies
- Service animals are an exception
- Notify the agent in advance about service animals
What to Bring to an Open House
Being prepared helps you make the most of every open house visit and remember key details about each property.
- A notepad or phone to take notes about each property
- A list of prepared questions to ask the listing agent
- Your buyer's agent's business card or contact information
- Comfortable, clean socks (shoes will be removed)
- A measuring tape if you need to check room dimensions
- The listing details printed or saved on your phone
After the Open House
What to do once you have visited an open house to stay organised and make informed decisions.
Take Notes
Write down your impressions immediately while the home is fresh in your memory. Note what you liked, what concerned you, and any questions that came up during the visit.
Compare Properties
Review your notes from all the open houses you attended. Compare properties based on price, condition, location, and how well they meet your needs and priorities.
Follow Up
Discuss your favourites with your buyer's agent. If you are interested in a property, your agent can arrange a private showing, pull comparable sales data, and help you prepare an offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to sign in at an open house?
While signing in is not legally required, it is considered polite and expected. The listing agent uses the sign-in sheet to track visitors for security purposes and to follow up with interested buyers. If you already have a buyer's agent, you can note their name on the sign-in sheet. You may provide your name and phone number or email — you are not required to provide all contact details if you prefer not to.
Should I take off my shoes at an open house?
Yes. In Canada, removing your shoes when entering a home is standard practice and considered respectful. Most open houses will have a mat or area near the entrance for shoes. Some listing agents provide disposable booties as an alternative. If you have difficulty removing footwear, ask the agent about shoe covers. Always wear clean, presentable socks.
Can I take photos at an open house?
It depends. Many listing agents allow photography so visitors can review properties later. However, you should always ask the agent for permission before taking photos or videos. Avoid photographing personal belongings, family photos, security systems, or valuables. Some sellers request no photography, and their wishes should be respected.
Is it rude to open closets and cabinets at an open house?
Opening closets is generally acceptable at an open house — checking storage space is a legitimate part of evaluating a property. However, do not open personal items like jewellery boxes, medicine cabinets, filing cabinets, or drawers containing personal belongings. If a door is closed (especially to a bedroom or office), ask the listing agent before opening it. Respect any areas that are marked as private or off-limits.
Should I bring my children to an open house?
Children are generally welcome at open houses, but they should be supervised at all times. Young children should not touch personal belongings, run through the home, or handle fragile items. If your children are very young and difficult to supervise, it may be more practical to arrange childcare. Older children who understand boundaries are typically fine to bring along.
Can I bring my pet to an open house?
Pets should not be brought to open houses. Even well-behaved pets can cause damage, trigger allergies, or create issues with the seller's pets that may be temporarily housed elsewhere. Service animals are an exception, but it is courteous to let the listing agent know in advance. Leave pets at home when visiting open houses.