Buying a home is exciting but touring properties is about much more than simply walking through a front door and deciding whether you like the kitchen.

During a recent episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, Melissa Wallace sat down with Boston Connect Real Estate agent Sue Bollinger to discuss what buyers should truly understand before scheduling showings, attending open houses, and making offers in today’s competitive market.

From understanding how online showing requests really work to why private showings matter and how buyers can protect themselves throughout the process, this conversation highlighted the importance of working with experienced real estate professionals every step of the way.

Most buyers begin their home search online.

But according to Sue Bollinger, many buyers don’t realize what actually happens when they click the “Schedule a Tour” button on large real estate websites.

Many third-party real estate platforms are designed to generate leads not necessarily connect buyers directly with the listing agent.

In many cases:

Sue explained that buyers often assume they are speaking directly with the listing agent when they are not.

That is why it is so important to ask:

Understanding representation before touring homes can help buyers avoid confusion and better protect their interests throughout the transaction.

One of the biggest themes throughout the show was the importance of working with a dedicated buyer’s agent from the very beginning of the home search.

A buyer’s agent helps:

As Sue explained during the show:

“The listing agent’s fiduciary responsibility is to the seller.”

That means the listing agent’s job is to secure the best possible price and terms for the seller not necessarily the buyer.

Having your own representation ensures you have someone advocating for your side of the transaction.

While open houses can be convenient, Melissa and Sue both emphasized that private showings typically provide the best experience for buyers.

Private showings allow buyers to:

Sue shared several real-world examples where buyers initially missed major concerns with properties until she toured the homes alongside them.

Experienced agents often notice:

Sometimes what looks beautiful cosmetically can hide expensive issues underneath.

That is why having a knowledgeable agent physically tour the property with you can make a significant difference.

One of the most relatable moments during the show came when Melissa and Sue discussed unrealistic expectations created by television shows.

Unlike TV, most buyers:

In today’s market, it is completely normal for buyers to:

Buying a home is a major financial and emotional decision and it rarely happens as quickly as television makes it appear.

Another important point discussed during the episode was making sure all decision makers attend showings whenever possible.

That includes:

Why does this matter?

Because it can delay the process when:

Different people notice different things during a showing.

One buyer may focus on layout, while another notices storage, traffic patterns, noise levels, or renovation needs.

Having everyone involved early helps avoid unnecessary complications later.

It is easy to get distracted by beautiful staging, fresh paint, or trendy finishes.

But buyers should also pay close attention to:

Sue explained that cosmetic issues are often manageable, but large structural or mechanical issues can quickly become expensive.

A buyer’s agent can help distinguish between:

This helps buyers make informed decisions while staying within their budget.

One of the most important modern realities buyers should understand is that many homes now have recording devices.

These may include:

Melissa and Sue stressed the importance of being careful about discussing:

during showings or open houses.

You never know who may overhear a conversation or what devices may be recording.

The best practice?

Another key takeaway from the conversation was that showing appointments revolve around more than just the buyer’s schedule.

Many homes are still occupied, which means sellers may be coordinating:

That means buyers may occasionally:

Being flexible and respectful can go a long way in securing opportunities to see desirable homes.

Touring homes is about much more than simply deciding whether you like a property.

It is about:

As Melissa Wallace and Sue Bollinger emphasized throughout the episode, having experienced representation can help buyers confidently navigate the entire process from the very first showing to the closing table.

If you are thinking about buying a home throughout the South Shore, South Coast, Boston, or Cape Cod, the team at Boston Connect Real Estate is here to help guide you every step of the way.

Learn more at:

Boston Connect Real Estate

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