What to Ask at Open Houses: NYC Buyer Essentials
Navigating open houses in NYC isn’t just about showing up with a list of questions—it’s about knowing which ones matter most, where to dig deeper, and how to interpret what’s said (and what isn’t). A knowledgeable real estate agent plays a critical role in this process.
Attending open houses in New York City can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re touring a one-bedroom in a full-service condo or a pre-war co-op with charm and history, it’s easy to get distracted by finishes, staging, and views—and overlook the questions that truly matter. But the right questions reveal a lot more than what’s visible on the surface.
In NYC, factors like building financials, board policies, maintenance obligations, and future resale potential play a major role in the buying experience. As a buyer, being prepared with targeted questions helps you move beyond impressions and gain a clearer understanding of what you’re really walking into.
Use the following questions as a guide. Bring this list with you—or better yet, tailor it to fit your priorities. Whether you're just starting your search or narrowing down to a few serious contenders, these questions will help you make more informed decisions.
1. What You Can Learn Ahead of Time
Some of the most important information about a property can often be found before you even walk through the door. Public listings on platforms like StreetEasy typically include details such as days on market, monthly maintenance or common charges, real estate taxes, and building policies around subletting, pet ownership, or co-purchasing.
Your real estate agent should review this information in advance and flag anything that might warrant a closer look. But even when details are clearly listed online, it’s still worth confirming them directly with the listing agent during the open house. Listings are a helpful starting point—but when it comes to major financial decisions, it’s always wise to trust, but verify.
2. About the Apartment
These questions focus on the unit itself—its condition, value history, and any additional costs that may come into play.
How long has the unit been on the market?
Have there been any price reductions?
Are there any recent renovations or upgrades? If so, when were they completed?
Are there any known issues with the apartment (plumbing, electrical, windows)?
What’s included in the sale (e.g., light fixtures, built-ins, appliances)?
What are the monthly maintenance/common charges and real estate taxes?
3. About the Building
Knowing the building’s structure, financial health, and governance policies is essential—especially in NYC where rules vary widely between co-ops and condos.
Is the building a condo, co-op, or condop?
What is the owner-occupancy ratio?
Are there any pending or recent capital improvement projects?
Are there upcoming assessments?
What’s the financial health of the building (reserves, mortgage status, etc.)?
Are there restrictions on subletting?
Can it be used as pieds-à-terre (if applicable)?
Are pets allowed? Weight or breed restrictions?
What are the policies around renovations and alterations?
4. About the Application Process
Especially relevant for co-ops and condops, the approval process can shape your closing timeline—and your overall eligibility.
If it’s a co-op: How strict is the board? What’s the approval process like?
Purchase structure (if applicable), such as Parent Buying? Guarantors? Co-Purchasing, Gifting?
Maximum financing? DTI% requirements? Post-closing liquidity?
What’s the estimated timeline from accepted offer to closing?
Are there move-in/move-out fees or elevator deposits?
5. About the Surroundings
Open houses are an opportunity to learn not just about the apartment, but also the lifestyle that comes with it.
What’s included in building amenities (e.g., laundry, gym, roof deck)?
How quiet is the unit? Any known noise from neighboring units or nearby construction?
What’s the street and neighborhood traffic like at different times of day?
What are the local schools, parks, or transportation options nearby?
6. Strategic and Under-the-Radar Questions
Sometimes, the most telling answers are the ones you’re not specifically told. These questions can offer insight into seller motivation, competition, and building culture.
Have there been any offers on the apartment? This can hint at seller expectations or how competitive the listing really is.
Why is the seller moving? You may not get the full story, but tone and phrasing can tell you a lot.
What’s the building culture like? Especially in co-ops, quality of life can depend heavily on the vibe of the board or building community.
If you’re met with vague answers or hesitation, it’s worth flagging these topics for your broker to explore further behind the scenes. In NYC, where deals are competitive and fast-moving, transparency—and follow-up—go a long way.
7. Customize Your List
Every buyer has unique priorities—some care most about financials, others about natural light, soundproofing, or renovation flexibility. This list is just a starting point. Tailor it to reflect what matters most to you, and print a few copies to bring along on tours.
It’s also a good idea to bring a notepad or use your phone to jot down answers and impressions right after each showing—especially if you’re viewing multiple properties in a single day. Keeping detailed notes will make it much easier to compare listings and follow up on anything that needs clarification.
8. The Role of Your Real Estate Agent
Navigating open houses in NYC isn’t just about showing up with a list of questions—it’s about knowing which ones matter most, where to dig deeper, and how to interpret what’s said (and what isn’t). A knowledgeable real estate agent plays a critical role in this process.
Your agent should conduct preliminary due diligence before the open house, reviewing listing materials, building policies, and market activity. During the tour, they’ll help you ask the right questions, assess how the property compares to others on the market, and evaluate any red flags or inconsistencies. After the open house, your agent should lead the follow-up process—clarifying unanswered questions, verifying financials or building details, and providing a complete picture of the opportunity.
In a fast-moving market like New York City, your agent’s insight, relationships, and experience can make a meaningful difference in how confident—and informed—you feel when it’s time to make a decision.
Related Resources and Insights
Need Guidance Through the Process? Let’s Connect. If you’re actively touring or preparing to start your search, I’d be happy to help you strategize. Contact me today and let’s talk about your home search.