Open House Tips for Buyers: What to Look For, What to Ask, and How to Choose with Confidence

Open houses are one of the most exciting parts of the homebuying journey. They’re a chance to walk through a space that could one day be yours—to explore the rooms, test the light, and see if the layout fits your life.

But they’re also an opportunity to gather information and ask the right questions. Because whether it’s your first time buying or you’ve done this before, every open house gives you a chance to learn something new, not just about the home, but about your own needs and preferences.

At Montchanin Builders, we regularly host open houses at our thoughtfully designed communities like Kennett Pointe, The Enclave at Longwood Preserve, and The Parke at Foulkstone. Our team is there to guide you through, answer your questions, and help you feel confident in what comes next.

What Should You Be Looking For?

Open houses are more than a tour—they’re an experience. And it helps to arrive with more than just your imagination. Here’s where to focus your attention:

▸ Layout and Livability

Think about how the space flows. Is the kitchen in the right spot? Does the home feel open or compartmentalized? In our new townhomes for sale in Kennett Square, open floorplans and three-level living are designed to give you flexibility—whether you’re hosting friends or working from home.

▸ Light, Privacy, and Orientation

Natural light can transform how a space feels. Step into each room at an open house and notice the windows. Where do they face? At The Enclave at Longwood Preserve, oversized windows and quiet surroundings mean your mornings start with sunlight, not street noise.

▸ Storage (Because It Matters More Than You Think)

Take a closer look at closets, pantries, garage space, and laundry areas. Are they where you need them to be? Is there enough room for the way you actually live?

▸ Outdoor Space and Shared Amenities

Whether it’s a patio, balcony, or green space, don’t skip the outdoors. Communities like The Parke at Foulkstone offer shared pavilions and walking paths that foster both relaxation and connection—ideal for active adults seeking more than just a home.

5 Big Questions Worth Asking at Every Open House

Open houses are your opportunity to look beyond the surface. Don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions. This is your chance to understand what life in the home (and the community) might actually feel like.

Here are a few questions that can reveal more than you expect:

1. Which features are standard, and what’s customizable?

Not all builders define “luxury” the same way. At Montchanin Builders, many features that others list as upgrades, like granite countertops, luxury plank flooring, energy-efficient appliances, and designer cabinetry, come standard. But it’s always smart to clarify.

Ask:

  • “Is the kitchen I’m seeing included in the base price?”
  • “Are there any personalization packages available?”

Knowing what’s included helps you avoid surprises and gives you peace of mind about what your investment really covers.

2. Can I personalize the floorplan to fit my needs?

Your lifestyle isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your home shouldn’t be either. In communities like The Enclave at Longwood Preserve, buyers can choose from optional layouts that add a home office, rec room, or even an extra bedroom or bath.

Ask:

  • “Are there structural changes available, like adding a flex space or bonus room?”
  • “Can I select finishes like flooring, countertops, or tile?”

This is especially important if you work remotely, have guests often, or want extra space for hobbies.

3. What’s included in the HOA—and what does it mean for my day-to-day life?

HOA fees aren’t just numbers on a sheet—they directly affect how much time and energy you’ll spend maintaining your home.

For example, at The Parke at Foulkstone, a 55+ community in Wilmington, DE, the HOA covers lawn maintenance, snow removal, and exterior upkeep, allowing residents to enjoy a lock-and-leave lifestyle with no outdoor chores.

Ask:

  • “What services does the HOA provide?”
  • “What’s the monthly cost and what does it include?”

For buyers who want low-maintenance luxury, this is a major advantage.

4. What’s the neighborhood like during the day—or on weekends?

The house may be beautiful, but what’s it like to live there? Ask questions that provide insight into the community’s vibe, not just the property lines.

  • “Is there a sense of community? Do neighbors interact?”
  • “Are there walking trails, dog parks, or coffee shops nearby?”

Whether you’re looking for peace and privacy or social connection, understanding the neighborhood helps you imagine your future routines.

5. Are any homes available now—or will I need to build?

Your timeline matters. Some buyers want time to customize and plan; others are ready to move in tomorrow. Montchanin Builders offers both options.

If you’re hoping to move quickly, ask about move-in-ready homes in Kennett Square. You might find a beautifully finished home that’s ready when you are, without sacrificing the features or finishes you want.

Ask:

  • “What’s the average build time if I choose to start from scratch?”
  • “What inventory is available now, and can I tour it?”

Bonus Tip: Write It All Down

Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down what you see and hear. After visiting a few homes, details can blur together. Having notes helps you compare options clearly and revisit key questions later.

Why Touring New Construction is a Smarter Experience

There’s a unique confidence that comes with buying a new construction home—and it starts at the open house.

Montchanin’s new construction townhomes in Pennsylvania and new construction townhomes in Delaware are built to today’s standards of efficiency, comfort, and style. That means:

  • Fewer future repairs
  • Modern layouts made for how people live now
  • Energy efficiency and smart technology built right in
  • Peace of mind knowing everything is brand new

You’re not buying someone else’s choices. You’re starting fresh with a space that fits you from the start.

Choosing the Right Community Starts with the Right Questions

Each Montchanin community offers something a little different, because buyers do, too.

  • At Kennett Pointe, you’ll find three-story luxury townhomes with classic charm and walkable access to downtown Kennett Square.
  • At The Enclave, there’s room to spread out, breathe deep, and enjoy a quiet corner of Chester County without losing access to Philadelphia.
  • And at The Parke at Foulkstone, you’ll find single-floor living and neighborhood green space designed with connection in mind—perfect for 55+ buyers seeking simplicity without compromise.

And while each community has its own personality, they all share something important: thoughtful design, excellent locations, and a team that cares.

Visit. Walk Through. Ask What Matters.

An open house isn’t just about the walls and floors; it’s about the feel of a place. Can you see yourself there? Does the layout support your lifestyle? Are your questions answered with care?

At Montchanin Builders, we believe a great homebuying experience starts with a great first visit. That’s why our open houses are hosted by real people who know the homes—and want to help you find the one that fits.

We’d love to show you around.

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