Set Up for Open House Success

While open houses once played a key role in real estate marketing, they are less relevant in the modern world — with most prospective buyers narrowing down homes they would like to see based on Internet photos. Today, fewer than 1 percent of homes sell via open house, according to nationwide statistics. Despite the low probability of making a sale directly through an open house, many realty practitioners hold the events, anyway, because sellers want them to. Moreover, Realtors welcome the curious neighbors and other onlookers who are not likely to buy but who may mention the listing to others or become clients of the agent at some later point in time. With that in mind, agents who do host open houses will draw more attention with just small details, such as replacing worn or dirty doormats; opening the drapes to allow in natural light; using potpourri, scented candles, or freshly baked goods to create an inviting smell; setting the dining room table; and adding fresh flowers. At a minimum, Realtors stress that a serious cleaning is necessary before an open house — outside as well as inside, meaning that a power wash of the exterior siding would go far. Other exterior preparations might include mowing the lawn or putting a fresh coat of paint on the front door. | Read More