What is the etiquette at open houses, and how should buyers conduct themselves?

A: On the seller side when we are looking at offers, we are evaluating not just the price and terms, but how likely a buyer is to create a smooth escrow and close the deal. Part of our jobs as listing agents is to pay attention.

Do introduce yourself to the agent and let them know who you’re working with. Do let them know why the home is a great fit for you and do come back multiple times, if possible.

In general, if there is an issue you are worried about or want more information on, it’s most productive to ask your agent to dig further rather than pepper the agent with a lot of questions at an open house or seem overly negative.

If it’s a home you’re seriously interested in, you want to present as serious and enthusiastic while having your agent help you be diligent about understanding the property and any issues.

Kira Mead, Zephyr Real Estate, (415) 305-8737, kira@realsfproperties.com.

A: Buyers often fail to realize that they are essentially auditioning for a home when they visit a Sunday open.

Thus the questions they ask and their behaviors are closely scrutinized by savvy sellers’ agents.

In short, a public open is not the time to crossexamine the listing agent, to drill down on disclosures, to criticize the design choices, or to complain bitterly about the list price.

All of that can be done and should be done with your own agent in private.

If a prospective buyer appears to be disgruntled at the Sunday open, it’s a good indication that they’ll probably be difficult once in contract as well.

So if a home is a real contender, keep the comments at the open short and sweet and you’ll be much better served come the offer date.

Julie Gardner, McGuire Real Estate, (510) 326-0840, julie@juliegardner.com.

A: Would-be buyers and lookie-loos are different types of people coming through open houses, although each and every person must respect they are in someone else’s cherished home.

Buyers working with an agent as they preview homes should carry their Realtor’s cards to each property. A good impression with the listing agent is valuable, especially if a buyer is considering coming to the table with an offer in this competitive market.

As they preview the property, they should keep kids very close by, don’t sit on beds or furniture and re-lock any doors that were locked. Also, ask to use the restroom and be respectful of the agent’s time.

Negative comments should be reserved as someone will be delighted to become another homeowner in the fabulous but competitive Bay Area real estate market.

Jeff LaMont, Caldwell Banker, (650) 558-6886, jlamont@cbnorcal.com.