What should I look for at an open house?

Look past the staging. Run faucets and flush toilets, open and close windows, and watch for cracks, stains, or fresh paint hiding problems. Check street noise, parking, and the neighbors' yards — and visit at different times of day if you can. Ask about disclosures, the roof's age, and HOA costs. Better yet, bring us along. Stone Real Estate Group tours open houses with buyers every weekend. Call 858-481-7653.