The Unwritten Rule of House Hunting: A Lesson from Beavercreek

I don't know who needs to hear this, but absolutely under no circumstance should you ever get a beer out of somebody's fridge when you're looking to buy their house. True story.

Just a couple of years ago, I was showing a property in Beavercreek – a basic ranch-style home. We were doing the usual walkthrough, taking in the features and layout, when something unexpected happened. As we made our way through the kitchen, I glanced over and couldn't believe my eyes: my client was grabbing a Milwaukee's Best out of the fridge.

Now, let's unpack this for a moment. This wasn't just any home; it was an estate sale. The previous owner had passed away, and who knows how long that beer had been sitting there, collecting dust and losing its fizz. The whole situation was surreal. I mean, can you imagine cracking open a probably expired, definitely neglected beer from someone’s long-forgotten stash? 

It's not just about the questionable beer quality – though that's a significant factor. It's about the principle. Taking something from someone else's home, especially when that home is on the market and the seller is no longer around to give permission, is simply disrespectful. My client learned this lesson the hard way, and it was a moment that stuck with me ever since.

In the world of real estate, there are plenty of do's and don'ts, but some rules are unwritten yet universally understood. Respecting the property and the current owners, alive or deceased, is at the top of that list. As your Greene County realtor, I make sure to guide my clients not just through the buying process but also through the etiquette that ensures we leave a good impression and build a fair deal for everyone involved.

So, the next time you're tempted to make yourself at home during a house tour, remember this tale from Beavercreek. It's a small town with big lessons, and as a  realtor I alway say, it's those little moments that can make or break your house-hunting experience.

Link on my YouTube video here