11 Tips for a Great Open House
Open houses can be a great way to generate buzz, and encourage offers.
However, messy closets, overwhelming odors, and curb UN-appeal can send potential buyers running.
What’s the best way to utilize an open house? To show your listing in the best possible light, put a gleaming face on your home from every vantage point with these 11 Open House Tips:
1. No Scent is the Best Scent
In a 2009 study, more than 30 percent of people reported scented products as “irritating.” Avoid irritating 30% of your potential buyers by skipping the use of candles and air fresheners.
Instead, homeowners should eliminate odor with a deep cleaning. Shampoo carpets, let in fresh air, and deodorize appliances to elevate a home to its odorous best.
2. No Clutter
Keep buyers focused on the home, not the stuff. Sellers should declutter and depersonalize a home before showings or open houses.
3. Clean Out Closets
Closet size is a touchy issue for many buyers, so there’s a good chance that at least one closet will be scrutinized during an open house. Amplify the appearance of storage space by trimming closet contents.
4. No Evidence of Pets
Pets may be sweet and loveable, but they can also create damage and odors. Many potential buyers will run in the opposite direction because pets have lived there. Remedy signs of pet damage, and remove pets from the home during open houses.
5. No Owners
No open house benefits from an emotionally-attached seller hanging around. Allow a professional real estate agent to handle the open house while the seller stays away for the time.
6. Attractive Entryways
A home’s entryway sets the tone for the rest of the house. Give the right first impression by removing dead plants and debris, scrubbing cobwebs and dirt from the front door, and maybe add a decorative wreath or a nice chair. Get buyers to smile at the outset, and that positivity will carry through the rest of the tour.
7. Close the Toilet Lids
Just do it.
8. Light & Bright
Rooms appear larger in brighter light. Experiment with lighting before the open house by opening shades and curtains and turning on different sources of light to accentuate a home’s best features.
9. Give Information in a Different Format
Digital information rules, but real estate agents should give potential buyers as much printed information as possible. Don’t be hesitant to put a printed brochure or photo postcard into a buyer’s hands. There’s something about tangible, physical information that sticks with a buyer, and could later encourage a sale or referral.
10. Photo Boards
It’s tough for buyers to know what a property looks like at different times of the year. Use photo boards or a laptop slideshow to show off a property in different seasons.
11. Music
Put on a little light music for the background. Classical, jazz, or something smooth to create ambience!
