Open houses can be a great way to generate interest in your listings and attract potential buyers. However, if not done correctly, they can also be a waste of time. Here are some great tips for a successful open house.

  1. Make sure that you properly advertise the event. Utilize social media and listing services to generate interest. Post directionals, and notify the neighbors!
  2. Give visitors plenty of time to tour the property by offering a generous time allocation for the open house.
  3. Have a plan for if any prospective buyers express interest in making an offer. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of having a successful open house.

Make sure the house is clean and clutter-free

An open house is an excellent opportunity to showcase your listing to prospective buyers. Encourage the seller to thoroughly clean and de-clutter the home in advance of the open house. Sellers should make arrangements for pets and children during the open house to limit distractions and promote safety. This can help set the foundation for a successful first impression. Neglecting to follow this simple tip may cause potential buyers to be turned off at their very first look. Arrive early so you can make sure the home is clean and smells fresh and if necessary, take a few moments to tidy up and organize, so that potential purchasers will quickly recognize the appeal of your property from the start.

Put out fresh flowers to make the house look and smell inviting

Cheerful yellow hello sign and fresh flowers in a clean and bright bedroom

Making a home inviting and cozy requires attention to detail. One easy and effective way to welcome visitors is to keep the house smelling delicious. To accomplish this, try putting out fresh flowers in areas that will maximize the scent, such as near doorways or in rooms frequented most by guests. Baked goods like homemade cookies can add an appealing scent. These small touches can make a major impact when it comes to making your listing welcoming and appealing.

Turn on lights and open curtains

Young woman opening curtains of big window, view from back.  Letting in natural light.

Turning on lights and opening curtains or blinds throughout the house can make a world of difference! It allows potential buyers to get a complete sense of the home and its features. All portions of the house, including dark corners and nooks, will be illuminated and allow buyers to consider the possibilities within each space. This allows them to truly envision themselves living in the home, which may tip their decisions in favor of your listing. Therefore, flipping on all of those switches is a great way to show off everything the property has to offer!

Arrange furniture in a way that makes the rooms look spacious

Woman in living room sipping tea in bright, decorated room.

Encourage your seller to consider furniture placement in advance of an open house. Arranging furniture in a way that makes the rooms look spacious and welcoming is an important task for an open house. Taking the time to step back and consider how furniture will be placed can lead to better utilization of space, a stunning visual aesthetic, and comfortable living areas. For example, placing two chairs and a shared side table near a window or focal point can create an inviting conversation area. Alternately, appropriately sized furniture placed against the walls of the room can open up more floor space while still creating functional areas within the room. By taking into consideration these ideas, buyers can easily visualize using the space which can lead to potential offers.

Be prepared to answer any questions potential buyers may have

As a realtor, it is important to be prepared when interacting with potential buyers. Make sure to have an answer to any questions they may have about the property. Have helpful information such as utility costs and various community amenities on hand. Put together a flyer listing important features of the home and your contact information to provide to visitors during the open house. Buyers will appreciate the information since it helps them make an educated decision in their home purchase. Being knowledgeable about the local area and having market data ready are also musts for helping a buyer feel comfortable in selecting a home. Don’t hesitate to go above and beyond in offering prospective buyers this additional information as it can help convey your commitment to their satisfaction.

If you follow these simple tips, you’ll be sure to make a great first impression on potential buyers. A clean, clutter-free house that smells inviting and looks bright and spacious is sure to attract attention. Be prepared to answer any questions buyers might have. This will make the most of your open house and you’ll be well on your way to making a sale.

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Richard Reid

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