With Spring comes the excitement of the homebuying season!  Gen Z is already making moves,  and with mortgage rates recently seeing their largest weekly decline since late last summer, more buyers are diving into homeownership across the Midwest.  But before you head out to tour homes, there’s something you need to know...

Attending an Open House Might Not Be in Your Best Interest...

Open houses may seem like a great way to check out a property, but they come with serious drawbacks for homebuyers:

1. You May Accidentally Give Away Your Negotiation Power

At an open house, the agent hosting the event works for the seller—not for you.  They have a fiduciary duty to the seller to get the best possible deal, which means they may not always have your best interests in mind.  If you mention your budget, timeline, or excitement about the home, that information can be used against you in negotiations. Anything you say to a seller’s agent could impact your ability to get the best deal.

2. You Could Be Pressured Into Working with an Agent

Many agents use open houses as an opportunity to recruit buyers. You may find yourself being pushed into signing a buyer representation agreement before you’re ready. The recent NAR settlement has changed the real estate landscape, and now some agents require signed contracts just to show homes. Before you commit to anything, make sure you fully understand your options.

3. Open Houses Don’t Offer a Private Touring Experience

During an open house, you’re walking through a home alongside other potential buyers. This limits your ability to take your time, ask questions, and truly envision yourself living in the space. Plus, you might miss important details because you’re navigating around a crowded room.

4. Sign-In and Solicitation

Many open houses require attendees to sign in upon arrival, providing their contact information. While this is often done for security and follow-up purposes, it can also lead to unsolicited marketing and sales efforts. After attending an open house, you may receive emails, phone calls, or mailings from real estate agents or mortgage brokers trying to solicit your business.

A Smarter Way to Tour Homes: HomeTraq

Instead of attending an open house, take control of your home search with HomeTraq. With no commitments, no pressure, and no awkward conversations with a seller’s agent, HomeTraq lets you schedule private home tours at your convenience.

• No contracts – Tour homes first, then decide when and how to work with an agent.
• Private showings – Explore the home at your own pace, without distractions.
• Full transparency – Get all the information you need without worrying about hidden agendas.
  
  

👉 Skip the open house. Book a private, no-commitment home tour today at HomeTraq.com.