If I walk into an open house without an agent, am I stuck with the agent hosting it?
Answered by Chris Deutsch, Founder & Editor
Licensed Minnesota Realtor #20382264 ·
The short answer
No. Walking into an open house creates no relationship and signs you up for nothing. The written-agreement rules apply when an agent starts working for you — touring homes together, advising you, advocating for you. Browsing a public open house isn't that, and it's one of the few ways left to see homes before you've hired anyone.
On stage The 60-second answer
Captions on · Transcript below
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Chris's video answer is on its way. Until then, the short answer above says the same thing.
The transcript posts with the video.
The longer answer
Two things to know while you're there. The hosting agent works for the seller, so be friendly and be careful — your budget and your eagerness aren't theirs to know. And the sign-in sheet is for the seller's security and the agent's follow-up; signing in is courtesy, not a contract.
If they ask whether you're working with someone, answer honestly — it just tells them who they're allowed to court. And if the answer is "not yet," enjoy the cookies, take your time, and text me when you're ready to compare notes.
The next department over
What people in this spot usually ask next.
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- The banned-term explainersA house I want shows "Coming Soon." Can I get in early to see it?Read the answer
- The banned-term explainersCan I buy a house off-market in Minneapolis?Read the answer
- Rules & representationDo I really have to sign something before an agent can show me homes in Minnesota?Read the answer
- Rules & representationWho pays my buyer's agent now?Read the answer
- Rules & representationThe listing agent seems friendly. Are they on my side if I don't have my own agent?Read the answer
From the editor's desk
“As Founder and Editor, I review, correct, and stand behind every answer.”
Is your situation more specific than the market? That's the one worth talking through.