Whether you’re actively searching for your new home or are just beginning to consider making a move, open houses are the perfect way to start your search.

Open houses allow you to get a feel for things such as neighborhood, how far your budget will go, must-haves in your new home, and some design inspiration.

As the #4 expansion team in the country, HergGroup Greater Washington’s website has a comprehensive list of open houses and homes for sale in Alexandria and beyond.

Here’s a sampling of the local open houses this week:

• 353 Wesmond Drive, Lynhaven — $599,999 (Open House: 12/15 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM)
• 2803 Mosby Street, Warwick Village — $670,000 (Open House: 12/15 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM)
• 503 Duncan Avenue, River Terrace — $720,000 (Open House: 12/14 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, 12/15 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM)
• 2417 Davis Avenue, Braddock Heights — $1,395,000 (Open House: 12/14 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM)
• 518 Canterbury Lane, Malvern Hill — $1,649,000 (Open House: 12/15 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM)

The preceding feature was sponsored by HergGroup Greater Washington.