Answers by Mike Despard

No, you don't need to sign a contract at an open house with an agent/brokerage who is representing the seller. If you ask the agent to take you to tour other homes that are not represented by the agent's brokerage, then you will need a buyer representation contract (if the agent is a member of the National Association of Realtors). Please keep in mind that the agent at the open house represents the seller, not you; so any information you provide to that agent can be used to benefit the seller.