Side-by-Side Comparison
Open House
Private Showing
Appointment needed?
No — walk in during posted hours
Yes — booked through your REALTOR®
Time with property
15–30 min (shared with other visitors)
30–60 min (just you and your agent)
Agent present
Listing agent (works for the seller)
Your REALTOR® (works for you)
Privacy
Low — other buyers may be watching
High — discuss freely with your agent
Access to full home
Usually yes, but some areas may be restricted
Full access — measure rooms, check everything
Best for
Initial screening, neighbourhood feel, market research
Serious evaluation, second visits, pre-offer inspection
Scheduling flexibility
Limited to posted times (usually weekends)
Any time that works for you and the seller
Number of homes per visit
3–5 in one afternoon (efficient)
1–3 (more time per home)
When to Choose an Open House
Open houses are ideal for the early stages of your search. They let you see multiple homes in one afternoon, get a feel for different neighbourhoods, and calibrate your expectations without any commitment.
You're still defining your criteria and budget
You want to explore a new neighbourhood
You're comparing multiple homes quickly
You haven't connected with a REALTOR® yet
You want a casual, no-pressure experience
When to Book a Private Showing
Private showings are for when you're getting serious. You've narrowed your search, found a home that checks your boxes, and want uninterrupted time to evaluate it properly — with your own REALTOR® giving you candid advice.
You liked a home at an open house and want a second look
You're ready to evaluate a property for an offer
The open house times don't work with your schedule
You want your REALTOR®'s honest assessment in private
You need to measure rooms or test specific features
The Smart Strategy: Use Both
The most effective home buyers use open houses and private showings together as a two-stage process:
- Stage 1 — Open houses for screening. Attend 3–5 open houses each weekend to quickly narrow your search. Use our checklist and take photos. This is your wide-net phase.
- Stage 2 — Private showings for evaluation. For the 1–2 homes that stood out, book a private showing with your REALTOR®. Bring your question list, measure rooms, and have your agent assess the property candidly.
- Stage 3 — Make your move. If the private showing confirms your interest, work with your REALTOR® to research comparable sales, prepare an offer, and negotiate.
Book a Private Showing with hômm
Saw something you like at an open house? Our team can arrange a private showing at a time that works for you. We offer phone calls, video calls, and in-person visits — no obligation.
Start with open houses this weekend
Browse upcoming open houses across Alberta and plan your tour route.
Browse Open HousesRelated Guides
Complete Open House Guide for Buyers
Everything you need to know before, during, and after an open house visit.
Open House Checklist
A printable checklist of what to inspect, photograph, and ask about.
Questions to Ask at an Open House
The most important questions that reveal a property's true condition.
First-Time Buyer Open House Guide
Tailored advice for buyers attending their very first open house.
Browse Open Houses in Alberta
See all upcoming open houses across 20 Alberta cities.