If you’re looking for a new home, open houses can assist in your search—even if you don’t like the properties you visit. Here are five steps to take so that you benefit from your time spent. Visit Different Kinds of Properties Do you like the layouts of ranch homes or townhouses better? Will an open floor plan fit with your lifestyle? Seeing a home’s style and features in person can inform what you want in your next property.  Take Notes Whether you visit three or fifteen houses, the details of those properies will blur together. Take notes about what you like and don’t like about a home, and be sure to grab the listing sheet provided by the agent hosting the open house. That will usually feature photos and basic information for easy reference.  Ask Questions The real estate agent is there to help you learn about and love the house. Ask the host about the neighborhood, HVAC system, roof, plumbing—anything that will help you understand what you get at that price point. Remember: You’re doing research to determine what you want to buy. Review Your Findings Soon Don’t wait two weeks to revisit your notes. Carve out time after your tours or the following day to go over every property and its listing sheet. You will start to form an idea of what you want your property to be like.   Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help Open houses can expose you to many different properties and narrow your home search. When you’re ready to find the property that meets your newly created requirements, talk to a REALTOR®. A REALTOR® knows your local market and will match you with the perfect property. Find one here.