You step into an open house, and within minutes you are deciding whether this could be home. In Hastings, where riverfront charm meets historic architecture and newer neighborhoods, a little etiquette goes a long way. This guide helps you feel prepared, ask smart questions, and respect the seller’s space while protecting your negotiating position. You will learn what to do before, during, and after an open house, plus local tips on winter footwear, flood risk, radon, and lead paint. Let’s dive in.
Before you go
Do a quick property review so your questions are targeted. Look up the MLS details and public records for year built, lot size, beds and baths, and recent updates. If the home was built before 1978, plan to ask about required lead-based paint disclosures. For river-adjacent properties, note whether you want to check FEMA flood maps and ask about flood insurance.
Decide whether to bring your buyer’s agent. Your agent can help you separate features from red flags, guide follow-up, and keep your negotiating information private. If you attend alone, avoid sharing your budget, pre-approval amount, or how much you love the home.
Dress for the season. In winter, choose footwear you can remove easily and prepare for icy walkways. In spring and fall, expect mud and wet floors, and consider bringing or using shoe covers if provided. If you are feeling ill, skip the open house and request a private showing or virtual tour.
Confirm time and parking. Arrive during posted hours and avoid showing up early unless invited. Park thoughtfully, using public or designated spaces rather than blocking driveways.
At the open house
Arrival and sign-in
You may be asked to sign in. If you prefer not to be contacted directly, note that you are working with a buyer’s agent and provide your agent’s information. Be respectful at the door and follow any posted instructions about shoe removal or covers.
Talking with the listing agent
Keep it professional and focused on property facts. Good questions include age of the roof and mechanicals, recent updates, utilities, and whether seller disclosures are available. Do not reveal your price range, pre-approval limits, or your level of interest. Ask who the agent represents and whether other offers are expected.
Respecting private spaces
Stick to the rooms that are clearly open for viewing. Avoid opening closed doors or rummaging through closets, drawers, or cupboards without permission. Do not move personal items or touch valuables.
Photos and video
Ask before taking photos or video. If permitted, avoid capturing personal details like family photos, mail, or visible documents. Respect any posted restrictions.
Children and pets
If you bring children, keep them close and avoid letting them handle fragile items or run through the home. Leave pets at home if possible. If you must bring a pet, ask the host in advance and keep the animal leashed and controlled.
Cleanliness and courtesy
Use mats, remove shoes, or wear provided covers. Be mindful of other visitors and keep your tour reasonably brief. If you need extra time to measure or revisit rooms, ask to schedule a private showing.
Hastings-specific tips
Riverfront and flood awareness
Hastings has riverfront and low-lying areas that may be in FEMA flood zones. If the home is near the river or a tributary, ask about past flooding, current insurance requirements, and whether the seller has documentation on elevation or mitigation. Your agent can help you review maps and insurance considerations.
Older and historic homes
Many Hastings homes near downtown are older and may have lead-based paint if built before 1978. Federal rules require sellers of most pre-1978 homes to provide a lead paint pamphlet and disclose known issues. If you plan renovations, know that certain work may fall under EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting rules.
Radon in Minnesota
Minnesota has areas with elevated radon potential. Ask if the seller has a recent radon test and whether a mitigation system is installed. If not, plan to discuss testing with your buyer’s agent and consider a professional test during the inspection period.
Seasonal realities
Winters can bring snow and ice, and many Hastings homes have basements and detached garages. Expect boot trays and rugs at the door and use them. In spring and fall, anticipate mud and plan footwear accordingly. In summer, take time to view the yard, exterior, and any outbuildings.
Legal and safety basics
Ask for seller disclosures and review them carefully. These often cover systems, known defects, environmental hazards, and past issues. If the property is older or near the river, ask about lead paint, radon, flood history, and any mitigation steps.
Clarify representation. The listing agent represents the seller. If you want representation, bring your buyer’s agent or request time to consult one before you share personal or financial details.
Prioritize safety. Avoid touring isolated homes alone at night. Tell someone where you are going, bring a companion if possible, and meet agents in public places when appropriate.
After you visit
Capture your impressions while they are fresh. With permission, take photos, measurements, and notes that help you compare homes later. Record anything you noticed that might need follow-up, such as musty smells, cracks, or signs of moisture in a basement.
Share your notes with your buyer’s agent. Ask for full disclosure documents and any available reports, such as radon results or past inspection summaries. If you are interested in pursuing the home, your agent will advise on pricing, contingencies, and timing based on current market conditions.
Respect the seller’s privacy. Communicate only through the listing agent or your own agent. If the listing agent follows up and you are not interested, a polite reply that you are continuing your search is enough.
Quick checklist
Before
- Review MLS details and year built, and flag any pre-1978 lead paint questions.
- Decide whether your buyer’s agent will attend, and plan your disclosures accordingly.
- Check flood exposure if near the river, and note any radon questions.
- Confirm time, parking, and seasonal footwear.
Arrival
- Park considerately and arrive during posted hours.
- Sign in if you are comfortable and note your agent if represented.
- Follow shoe removal or cover requests.
Inside
- Ask about disclosures, system ages, and recent updates.
- Avoid opening closed rooms or personal storage without permission.
- Request permission before photos or video.
- Supervise children and keep pets at home.
After
- Organize notes, photos, and measurements.
- Request full disclosures and any testing results.
- Contact your buyer’s agent to plan next steps or a private showing.
If you want a calm, informed approach to Hastings open houses and riverfront or lifestyle properties, we are here to help. Connect with the team at Cascade Group Lakes Sotheby’s International Realty to talk through your goals and next steps.
FAQs
Should I bring my buyer’s agent to an open house?
- Yes when possible, since your agent protects your interests and helps you avoid sharing negotiating details; if you attend alone, keep financial information private and follow up with your agent.
Is signing in at an open house required?
- It is often requested but not required; if you prefer not to be contacted directly, note that you are working with a buyer’s agent and provide their information.
Can I take photos or video inside the home?
- Only with permission from the listing agent or seller, and avoid capturing personal documents or family photos if photography is allowed.
Is it okay to open closets or cabinets?
- Only open spaces that are clearly presented for viewing; do not open closed or locked areas or handle personal items without permission.
What if I notice possible issues like musty smells or cracks?
- Make a note, ask the listing agent about known issues, and discuss ordering inspections or tests, such as radon, with your buyer’s agent before making an offer.
