Open House Scorecard: What to Look for Beyond the Staging
Staging is designed to make you feel something. A scorecard helps you see the house. Keep this on your phone and check items as you walk through.
- Staging hides things, a scorecard finds them
- Smell, water, and light tell the truth
- Score each home the same way to compare fairly
See past the staging
Fresh flowers and soft lighting are not part of the house. Look at the bones: the roof, the windows, the floors, the smells, the water, and the street outside.
How to use the scorecard
Check each item you confirm on your walk through. The gauge shows how well the home passes your basics. Use the same list at every open house so you can compare.
Questions to ask the agent
- How long has it been on the market?
- What work has been done, and was it permitted?
- What are the typical utility costs?
- Are there offers already?
Next
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Common questions
What should I look for at an open house?
Check condition, light, water pressure, smells, noise, layout, and signs of past repairs. Then think about the street and the neighborhood.
Should I bring someone to an open house?
A second set of eyes helps. A partner, friend, or your agent can notice things you miss.