How Many Homes Should I View Before Buying One?

One of the most common questions buyers ask when starting their home search is, “How many homes should I see before making an offer?” The truth is, there’s no magic number. Every buyer’s journey is different, but there are a few guidelines that can help you feel confident in your decision.

Quality Over Quantity

It’s not about seeing every home on the market—it’s about finding the right home for your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Some buyers find their dream home on the very first showing, while others might look at 10–15 homes before finding the perfect fit. On average, most Portland homebuyers tour around 8–12 homes before making a decision.

Do Your Homework First

With today’s online tools, you can narrow your search before even stepping inside. Browsing listings, taking virtual tours, and reviewing neighborhood data saves time and helps ensure you’re only touring homes that truly fit your criteria.

Listen to Your Gut (and the Data)

Buying a home isn’t just a financial decision—it’s also an emotional one. The right home should feel like a good fit the moment you walk in, but it should also check the boxes on your must-haves list. Pairing your instincts with up-to-date Portland market data ensures you’re making a smart and informed choice.

So What? Why This Matters

Over-touring can lead to “analysis paralysis,” making it harder to pull the trigger when the right home comes along. On the other hand, rushing into the first home you see without context could mean missing out on a better fit. The sweet spot is finding enough comparisons to feel confident, but not so many that you’re overwhelmed.

Bottom Line

There’s no set rule for how many homes you should view before buying. The key is to prepare ahead of time, stay focused on your goals, and trust both the process and your Realtor’s expertise.

If you’re ready to start your home search in Portland, I’d love to guide you every step of the way—from first tour to final keys.