Today has been a marathon house-hunting day. As you check out the gorgeous granite in your fifth home tour for the day, it suddenly hits you: “I HAVE TO GO TO THE BATHROOM!”
Should you use the bathroom in this house? When searching for your perfect home, navigating the do’s and don’ts can be extremely awkward, so Michele Harmon Team has provided you with answers to the questions most buyers do not want to ask.
So, Is it Appropriate For Me to Use the Bathroom?
If you have to go, you have to go – but it is best to not just wander off and take care of business. The water may not be turned on in every home. Vacant houses, especially in the winter, may have the water shut off, and you will be unable to flush. This is an important factor you may want to know before you go. If you are at an Open House, using the bathroom disables the other potential buyers from completing the tour of the house, and they may not want to after you have finished your business.
When you are touring multiple homes in one day, we recommend scheduling a couple of pit stops at gas stations or restaurants along the way.
Can I Bring My Coffee Inside?
Bringing food or drinks inside is definitely a no-go. If the seller has left out goodies obvious for the taking, please eat in the kitchen and over a napkin.
We recently read a story shared by the past President of the National Association of REALTORS®, Pat Vredevoogd Combs, that was a complete nightmare!
“So many first-time home buyers are millennials, and I almost never see them without a cup of Starbucks in their hand,” Vredevoogd Combs said. “I had one guy spill his coffee on white carpeting and we had to get down on our hands and knees to clean it up.”
Is It Okay to Peek in the Closet?
You most definitely can! Your home purchase is going to be one of the biggest purchases you will ever make and it is important for you to check out everything! Just keep in mind that you are only shopping for closet space, so there is no need to rifle around.
Can I Take a Selfie with This Awesome, Pink Stovetop?
With smartphones playing a huge role in our everyday lives, snapping a picture to share with with friends and family is a piece of cake! But, be sure to ask permission first, especially if you plan to share your picture online. Some sellers have valuables displayed in plain view and they may not even want their home promoted online.
Can I Take a Moment to Relax in That Chaise Lounge?
It is not recommended. If you feel comfortable enough to want to sit on the furniture, this may be a good indication that you feel comfortable enough to make the house your home! Remember, it is not your furniture and it is most likely not included in the sale of the home. Plus, that cozy-looking couch or bed may be staged–some sellers have cardboard boxes wearing fancy clothes–so, if you sit on it, you may take a fall. However, if you need to sit for health reasons, do not be afraid to ask. Michele Harmon Team wants you to remain safe at all times!
The Bottom Line
Searching for your dream home is incredibly exciting! While you are on the hunt for your next home, simply follow the old-fashioned Golden Rule: Do unto others’ homes as you would have them do unto yours. Be on your best behavior and pretend that the homeowner is standing right next to you. It may also be a good idea for you to keep comments to yourself. With today’s technology and cutting-edge security cameras, the seller may be able to overhear how much you love the kitchen, and that could potentially harm your negotiating power if you decide to buy.
At the end of the day, everything comes down to first impressions and as a buyer, you are looking to make a good impression on the seller and Listing Agent. When in doubt about a particular activity, always go with your gut. If you think a certain area of the home is off-limits, talk to your agent. Michele Harmon Team always keeps your best interests in mind and we are happy to answer any and all questions you may have throughout the buying process.
Have you recently sold your home and have tips or funny stories from house showings? Let us know in the comments below!