What to Expect at Your First Open Home in Port Stephens
What to Expect at Your First Open Home in Port Stephens
Attending your first open home can be a mix of excitement and nerves — especially in a market as popular (and competitive) as Port Stephens. Whether you’re a first-time buyer dreaming of your beachside haven or a family looking for more space, knowing what to expect (and what to look out for) can make all the difference.
Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate your first open home with confidence — plus a few tips that are specific to buying in Port Stephens.
Before the Open Home: Do a Little Homework
Start by researching the suburb. What’s the median price? What’s nearby - schools, shops, public transport? In Port Stephens, lifestyle plays a huge role, so think about how close you want to be to beaches, parks, or your workplace.
Open Home Checklist: What to Look For
Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down key features. Here's a quick checklist:
Exterior:
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Condition of the roof and gutters
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Cracks in walls or pathways
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Drainage around the property
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Street appeal and overall presentation
Interior:
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Signs of damp, mould, or water damage
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Condition of flooring, paint, and finishes
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Storage space (pantry, wardrobes, linen cupboards)
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Natural light and airflow
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Room size — will your furniture fit?
Systems & Utilities:
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Check the age of the hot water system
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Ask about the age of the appliances and whether they’re included
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Is there heating/cooling? Reverse cycle air con is especially handy in coastal climates
Questions to Ask the Agent
Don’t be shy — agents are there to help. Great questions to ask include:
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Has the property had any recent repairs or renovations?
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How long has it been on the market?
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Are there any known issues or upcoming strata/body corp costs (for units)?
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How many people have shown interest so far?
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If it's listed as an auction, ask whether the owner will consider offers prior?
After the Open Home: What’s Next?
If you liked the home:
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Ask for a copy of the contract and pest/building reports if available
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Take time to drive around the neighbourhood at different times of the day
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Compare with other properties you've seen
If you're unsure:
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Don't rush. The Port Stephens market moves quickly in some areas, but the right home will come along.
Still looking?
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Contact the First National Port Stephens team and provide them with your full criteria or ‘wish list’. This will allow our buyer assistance team to search for any pre-market listings within the office that may suit you, or simply keep you updated on the market.
Ready to Start House Hunting?
At First National Port Stephens, we understand that buying your first home is a huge milestone. Whether you're just starting out or ready to make an offer, we’re here to guide you through every step of the journey — with local knowledge, no-pressure advice, and a genuine passion for helping people find their place in our coastal community.
Contact us today to book your next inspection, or let us know what you're looking for — we'll help you find it.