If you’re exploring the housing market in Sherwood Park, attending open houses is one of the best ways to get a true feel for a property before making any commitments. But there’s more to a home viewing than just admiring décor or picturing your furniture in the living room.
Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, knowing what to look for during an open house can help you make an informed decision—and potentially save you time and money in the long run.
In this guide, Blu Erick and Jenniffer Erick of Maxwell Polaris break down key home viewing tips to help you make the most of open houses in Sherwood Park.
1. First Impressions Matter—but Look Deeper
It’s easy to be charmed by curb appeal and staging, but remember, those are often designed to highlight a home's best features and mask potential flaws.
What to check:
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Driveway and sidewalk condition
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Landscaping and drainage
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Exterior siding and roofing
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Front door and window frames
A beautiful exterior is great, but structural integrity is even more important.
2. Pay Attention to Smells and Sounds
When you walk into the home, take note of any odors or unusual sounds. These can be clues to underlying problems like mold, plumbing issues, or even poor insulation.
Pro tip: If a home is heavily scented with candles or air fresheners, it could be masking something.
3. Examine Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
Cracks, water stains, uneven flooring, or warped walls can be signs of foundational or moisture issues.
What to look for:
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Stains on ceilings or walls (signs of past leaks)
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Cracks near windows and doors
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Sloping or creaking floors
4. Don’t Be Shy—Open Cabinets, Doors & Windows
You’re not just there to admire the layout—you’re there to test functionality.
Try opening:
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Kitchen and bathroom cabinets (look under sinks for water damage)
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Interior and closet doors (do they close properly?)
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Windows (are they drafty or difficult to open?)
5. Check Out the Neighborhood
Your dream home also needs a dream location. Take a few moments during or after the open house to explore the surrounding neighborhood.
Tips:
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Visit at different times of day
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Check traffic flow and noise levels
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Look at nearby schools, parks, and amenities
6. Ask Questions & Take Notes
This is where working with knowledgeable real estate professionals makes all the difference. At the open house, don’t hesitate to ask about:
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Age of the home and major systems (roof, HVAC, plumbing)
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Recent renovations or upgrades
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Property disclosures or known issues
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Average utility costs
Having a skilled realtor by your side ensures you’re asking the right questions—and getting honest answers.
Work With Sherwood Park Real Estate Experts
Attending open houses in Sherwood Park is just one part of the home-buying journey. To make sure you find the perfect property and avoid common pitfalls, connect with local experts who know the market inside and out.
Blu Erick: 780-819-5309
Jenniffer Erick: 780-887-5308
Maxwell Polaris
With years of experience helping buyers and sellers across Sherwood Park and the greater Edmonton area, Blu and Jenniffer can help you navigate open houses with confidence—and ultimately find a home that’s right for you.
Final Thoughts
The right home might be just one open house away. But to make the most of your visits, come prepared. Use these home viewing tips, ask the important questions, and work with real estate professionals you can trust.
Ready to start touring open houses in Sherwood Park?
Contact Blu or Jenniffer today and let’s find your next Home Sweet Home.
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