Real Estate Etiquette 101: From First Showing to Final Signature
Buying a home can sometimes be a messy, emotional, wild journey filled with excitement, confusion, and lots of signatures. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned pro, understanding the unwritten rules of the process can make things smoother for everyone involved (including your agent, who is definitely rooting for your sanity). So let’s break it down.
The Tour: Shoes Off, Minds Open
You’ve scheduled showings—congrats! This is the fun part. Just remember:
Signed Buyer Broker Agreement-If working with an agent, this is required prior to touring homes
Be on time (agents and sellers often have back-to-back appointments).
Keep your group small—At least until you narrow down your favorite options.
Don't overly criticize out loud. You’re being heard (doorbell cams are real).
Leave things as you found them. Yes, even the toilet seat.
Pro Tip: If you love it, say something! Your agent can start laying the groundwork early.
Going Under Contract: It’s Getting Real
So, your offer got accepted—cue the confetti! But now comes the adulting:
Deadlines matter. Earnest money, inspections, paperwork—there’s a rhythm to this thing.
Don't ghost. Your agent and lender need you to respond. This isn’t Tinder.
Stay flexible. Both parties want the deal to work, but curveballs happen.
Inspections: The "Oh... That’s There?" Moment
The inspector is not there to scare you—but they will find stuff.
Don't panic over every issue. Homes aren't perfect.
Ask questions, not accusations. The seller isn’t out to get you.
Negotiate smartly. Focus on major issues—roof leaks > old HVAC.
Etiquette tip: Be present, but give the inspector space to do their job.
Cancellation: When It Just Isn’t the One
Sometimes things don’t work out. That’s okay.
Let your agent know ASAP. Timing matters.
Be professional, not emotional. It’s hard, but it helps everyone move on.
Understand your rights. Contract timelines matter for refunds.
Appraisals & Financing: Hold Your Breath
Your lender orders the appraisal, and now everyone’s holding their breath.
Appraisal comes in low? You’ve got options (renegotiate, cover the gap, or walk).
Lender asks for more documents? Yes, again. Keep sending them.
Don’t make big purchases! No cars, no furniture, no, no, no until after closing.
Closing: The Finish Line
You made it. The keys are almost yours.
Do the final walkthrough. Make sure the home is as expected.
Bring your ID to closing. It’s not optional.
Celebrate, but don’t disappear. You’ll still get documents and responsibilities.
Bonus: Your agent probably has a key handoff selfie moment planned. Smile.
Final Thoughts: It’s a Business, But It’s Also a Big Deal
Buying a home is personal. It’s a big deal. But it’s also a professional process. A little etiquette goes a long way in keeping things moving forward with grace, humor, and mutual respect. Real estate can be intense, but with a little patience, perspective, and prep, it can also be an amazing (and relatively sane) experience.
Need help navigating the process with less stress and more clarity? You know who to call.
