While many homes are advertised publicly, the public should not expect an ability to view a home at will. Sellers have absolute discretion over how and when their private home will be shown. Prospective purchasers may view a home either through an Open House or a private Showing. All Open Houses and Showings should be taken seriously by seller and buyer alike, as great effort and opportunity exists on both sides.
An Open House is prearranged by the owner and listing agent, advertised and allows prospective purchasers an opportunity to view a home without an appointment and in the presence of the listing agent. Keep in mind that the Listing Agent works for the Seller and is bound by duty, loyalty and otherwise to report information to the Seller. The Listing Agent does not work for or represent the public who come to see the Open House. Visitors must follow instructions of the host and as requested by the owner. Visitors should assume they will be monitored.
A Showing, a private and extended viewing of a home, is arranged in advance through an agent with the permission of the owner. Homes are shown to prospective purchasers only. Typically, owners seek 24 hours notice and a confirmed appointment prior to a showing. Quite understandably, some homes are shown only upon pre-qualification and in the presence of the listing agent. On the other hand, many homes may be shown more readily, by appointment, and in the presence of a buyer’s agent.
Perhaps not surprisingly, November and December usher in a seasonally quiet period for Showings and Open Houses. Data for Showings is available through the Greenwich MLS and for a limited number of participating homes, but it does echo the generally more subdued seasonal trend. That said, active listings are available to be seen and agents often attribute ongoing activity to serious buyers.
Next Steps
If you are ready to start seriously looking at homes or are interested in private showings, contact me to request becoming your Buyer’s Agent. The agent duties of confidentially, loyalty etc are equally applicable whether an agent is acting as a Listing Agent or Buyer’s Agent. In the event, a buyer is interested in a property represented by the same brokerage or agent, then the agreeing parties will sign a standard form Dual Agreement Agreement. Contact Mary-Stuart for more information.
