Tips for Open Homes
Hosting a successful home open is a critical step in selling a property. It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase a home’s best features, create buzz, and attract potential buyers. However, getting people to attend requires a strategic approach. Below are comprehensive tips and strategies to maximize attendance and create a memorable experience for visitors.
1. Preparation Before the Open House
a. Clean and Declutter:
Before promoting your open house, ensure the property is spotless. Clean every room thoroughly, including often-overlooked areas like baseboards, windows, and closets. Declutter to create a sense of space and remove personal items that may distract potential buyers.
b. Stage the Home:
Staging helps buyers visualize themselves in the space. Arrange furniture to highlight the home’s best features, add fresh flowers, and use neutral decor to appeal to a broad audience. If staging isn’t feasible, make small but impactful changes like painting walls in neutral colours or upgrading outdated fixtures.
c. Make Necessary Repairs:
Address minor repairs, such as fixing leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or chipped paint. These small improvements can make a big difference in how the home is perceived.
d. Improve Curb Appeal:
The exterior sets the first impression. Mow the lawn, trim bushes, plant flowers, and ensure the entrance is inviting with a clean doormat and polished door hardware.
2. Create a Strong Marketing Plan
a. Leverage Social Media:
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are excellent tools for promoting an open house. Create visually appealing posts with high-quality photos and engaging captions. Use targeted ads to reach potential buyers in specific demographics.
b. Use Real Estate Platforms:
List the open house on popular real estate websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, or local MLS systems. Provide detailed descriptions, professional photos, and the open house schedule.
c. Email Marketing:
Reach out to your network of potential buyers, agents, and past clients with a professional email invitation. Highlight the property’s unique features and include all the necessary details about the event.
d. Flyers and Signage:
Create eye-catching flyers and distribute them in high-traffic areas like coffee shops, gyms, and grocery stores. On the day of the event, place clear and attractive signs directing people to the property.
e. Partner with Local Businesses:
Collaborate with nearby businesses to promote the event. For instance, a local coffee shop could display your flyers or include details in their email newsletter.
3. Create Buzz and Excitement
a. Offer Incentives:
Provide incentives like a raffle or giveaway to encourage attendance. For example, offer a chance to win a gift card or a home-related item like a smart thermostat.
b. Host a Themed Event:
Make your open house stand out with a theme. For instance, host a wine and cheese evening, a Sunday brunch, or a family-friendly event with activities for kids.
c. Highlight Unique Features:
Showcase unique aspects of the property in your marketing materials. Whether it’s a stunning view, a gourmet kitchen, or a spacious backyard, draw attention to what sets the home apart.
d. Engage the Community:
Invite neighbours to the open house. Not only might they know potential buyers, but their presence can also create a sense of buzz and activity.
4. Timing and Scheduling
a. Choose the Right Day and Time:
Weekends, especially Sundays, are generally the best time for open houses. Schedule the event during late morning or early afternoon to accommodate varying schedules.
b. Avoid Competing Events:
Check local calendars to avoid conflicts with major events or holidays that could impact attendance.
c. Consider Multiple Sessions:
If possible, host multiple open house sessions, including one during the week for those who might not be available on weekends.
5. Leverage Technology
a. Virtual Tours:
Offer a virtual tour for those unable to attend in person. This can generate interest and may lead to follow-up visits.
b. Use QR Codes:
Include QR codes on flyers and signs that link to a website or video tour of the property.
c. Live Streaming:
Stream the open house on social media platforms to reach a broader audience.
6. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
a. First Impressions Matter:
Greet visitors warmly as they arrive. Provide a sign-in sheet or digital registration to capture contact information for follow-ups.
b. Set the Mood:
Use soft background music and ensure the home has a pleasant aroma. Avoid strong artificial scents and opt for natural options like freshly baked cookies or brewed coffee.
c. Provide Information:
Offer brochures or handouts with details about the property, including floor plans, pricing, and neighbourhood highlights.
d. Have Knowledgeable Staff:
Be ready to answer questions about the property, neighbourhood, and local amenities.
7. Follow-Up After the Event
a. Contact Attendees:
Reach out to everyone who signed in to thank them for attending and gauge their interest.
b. Gather Feedback:
Ask for feedback to understand what potential buyers liked and what could be improved.
c. Keep the Momentum:
Share updates about the property, such as new offers or upcoming showings, with attendees.
8. Additional Tips and Tricks
a. Highlight the Neighborhood:
Promote the community by showcasing local amenities, schools, parks, and transportation options.
b. Professional Photography:
Invest in high-quality photos and videos to make the property look its best online.
c. Be Transparent:
Provide accurate and detailed information about the property to build trust with potential buyers.
d. Hire a Professional:
Consider working with an experienced real estate agent who can bring expertise and a broader network to the process.
By combining preparation, effective marketing, and a welcoming atmosphere, you can significantly increase attendance and make your open house a successful step toward selling the property.