Interested in buying your first home? If so, then you'll probably end up touring at least a handful of homes before you find one that you want to make an offer on. Home tours can be exciting, but as you prepare to check out some homes for sale in-person, there are some basic etiquette tips worth keeping in mind. After all, the last thing you want to do is offend a person from which you want to purchase your dream home!

Remove Your Shoes

Upon entering a home that you plan on touring, it's always a good idea to remove your shoes. Wouldn't you want someone walking through your home to do the same? Even if there isn't a sign requesting you to remove your shoes, doing so will be appreciated--especially if the home is carpeted and could be easily stained otherwise.

Ask Before Taking Photos

While it may not seem like a big deal to snap a few photos of the inside of the home so you can better recall the details of the house down the road, it's always better to ask the seller's agent before you begin taking photos left and right. Some home sellers may have specific privacy concerns or other sensitivities that would make it inappropriate to take pictures. More than likely, it will be perfectly fine--but it's always best to ask.

Show Up on Time

If the home you'll be touring is still occupied, there's a good chance the sellers will need to take time out of their day to clean up and vacate before you arrive. If you're running late or unable to make it to your showing appointment, have your agent let the sellers know so they can plan accordingly. Don't leave them hanging or show up an hour late with the assumption that they won't mind.

Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval

Having a mortgage pre-approval letter before beginning to tour homes shows potential sellers that you're serious. If you haven't taken this step already, then, now is a good time to complete your pre-approval process online with a preferred lender. Some real estate agents may even require a pre-approval letter from you before they'll begin taking you on home tours.

These are just a few basic etiquette tips worth keeping in mind as you prepare to check out homes for sale. By following these tips, you can avoid potentially offending a home seller.