Shopping for a new home can seem like dating—swipe through photos online, pick your favorites, and then schedule a real-life meetup. That’s where open houses come in. They let you see a home in person, take a walk through the space, and decide if it’s a potential fit—or if you need to keep looking.
With Sioux Falls and its surrounding areas booming with new construction homes (like those at Donahoe Farms), open houses are an excellent opportunity to explore what’s out there. Whether you’re a first-time buyer looking to get into the market or searching for your dream home, these tips will help you make the most of your open-house visits.
Why Open Houses Are Worth Your Time
Let’s face it—photos are great, but they can’t show everything. At an open house, you get to:
Walk through the layout and imagine how your day-to-day life would fit into the space.
Get a close-up of the finishes—like custom cabinets or luxury vinyl floors—and touch the details that photos can’t capture.
Ask questions about specific features, warranties, or what’s included in the price. (Is that stunning kitchen backsplash standard? Let’s find out!).
- Explore the neighborhood—because loving your home also means loving what’s around it.
Growing neighborhoods with parks, walking trails, and access to great schools make new construction homes highly sought after.
Open House Tips
Here are a few tried-and-true tips to make your open house visits productive, enjoyable, and—dare we say—fun.
1. Come Prepared
Priorities List: Define what matters most—whether it’s square footage, the number of bedrooms, or an open-concept layout.
Embrace Flexibility: Even if a home doesn’t check every box, consider how you can make it your own over time. A little creativity can go a long way when investing in your future.
Get Preapproved: If you really want to be prepared, getting preapproved for a mortgage shows you’re serious and ready to act when the right home comes along.
2. Take Notes (and Pictures).
Visiting multiple homes in one day can be exciting and memorable. Take quick notes on what you love, what you’d like to adjust, and any questions that come to mind. Snap a few photos (with permission) so you can easily reflect on the details later—trust me, you’ll want to remember which home had that stunning custom kitchen or cozy reading nook.
This way, you’ll have a clear picture of what stood out most and can make a confident decision when the time comes.
3. Don’t Rush—But Be Ready to Move.
Finding the right home is a journey, not a race. Take your time to envision how your daily life would fit into the space. However, if a home feels like "the one," it’s important to act thoughtfully and confidently. Homes can go quickly, and if you find something you love—like a walk-in closet or a perfectly staged living room—someone else may be considering it too.
The key is to strike a balance between enjoying the process and being prepared to make a decision when the time feels right.
4. Visit Multiple Homes in a Day
Even if you think you’ve found the one, seeing a few other homes can offer valuable insights. You might discover features or layouts you hadn’t considered, or simply feel more confident in your decision knowing that you’ve explored all your options. Open houses provide a great opportunity to experience different styles and spaces, helping you visualize what truly fits your lifestyle. By exploring multiple homes, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what matters most—and sometimes, you’ll find exactly what you didn’t know you were looking for. Open houses are free, so why not take full advantage?
Why New Construction Homes Stand Out
If you’re leaning toward a new build (and we highly recommend it), here’s why they’re so sought after:
Peace of Mind: New homes come with warranties, so you’re covered if something unexpected pops up.
Fewer Issues: No creaky floors, outdated appliances, or surprise plumbing problems here.
Modern Design: New homes are built with today’s lifestyles in mind—open floor plans, energy-efficient systems, and smart design choices.
Growing Communities: New neighborhoods often include great amenities like parks, trails, and easy access to schools or shopping.
At Empire Homes, our new construction homes blend thoughtful designs with quality finishes, making them perfect for families and investors alike.
Final Thoughts: Open Houses Make All the Difference
An open house is your chance to fall in love with your future home, see the possibilities, and ask questions that matter. It’s also a great way to spend a weekend—exploring neighborhoods, imagining your furniture in a space, and maybe even finding the one.
So grab your checklist, charge your phone for photos, and come explore a few homes. And hey—don’t be afraid to dream a little. After all, the perfect home isn’t just where you live. It’s where your life happens.