7 Tips for a Successful Open Home

For a real estate broker, an open home can be a great way to reach a large pool of potential buyers. This type of visit gives would-be buyers the freedom to explore the property at their own pace and imagine themselves living in the home. During the open home, the broker remains on-site to answer their questions. 

In addition to cleaning and tidying up, there are a few things that should be done to help sell the home during an open house. Here are 7 expert tips to make any open home a success.

1 – Declutter the front entrance

Clear out the driveway and remove any unnecessary items in front of the home so that visitors can easily park and get a clear view of the home from the curb.

Also let the neighbours know there will be open home on a certain day and time. Ask them to not park their vehicles on the street or in front of the home during this time.

2 – Light it up!

Let as much light into the home as possible. Open all curtains and blinds and turn on all the lights. Buyers need to be able to imagine themselves living in the home, and lighting is a key factor in their final decision.

3 – What’s that smell?

Every home has its own unique scent. It’s what visitors notice first – even before the decor. Never use wall-mounted or cylinder air fresheners; many people are allergic to them. Instead, opt for lightly scented candles or essential oil diffusers. This will avoid allergens and add a nice decorative touch. Cooking up a batch of fresh cookies is a tried-and-true trick that also treats visitors to a comforting, homey snack.

4 – Across the seasons

Display a collage of seasonal photos of the property. This will help visitors appreciate the home’s setting year-round. It also lets you show off the home in its very best light – a great trick if the weather is lousy on the day of your open home.

5 – Refreshments

Treat visitors to light refreshments during their visit. You don’t need to hire a 5-star catering service; some local products nicely arranged on a wood platter alongside a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is enough to impress visitors.

6 – An open ear

Open homes let potential buyers take a self-guided visit tour of your property. That means they’re free to explore on their own, but you should still make your presence known. Greet all visitors who enter, quickly find out what they are looking for in a new home, and show them how this home will meet their needs. Open homes are also a great way to hear what visitors have to say about the property. Pay close attention to their passing comments so that you can adjust accordingly for future visits.

7 – Brochures and pamphlets

Give all visitors an illustrated brochure or pamphlet of the property to take home with them. Make sure it includes professional quality photos and key property features to help remind them why the home is so special.

Talk to the MA CLÉ team for help in creating eye-catching brochures – it’s a special touch your clients will love!