Ready to wow? Discover 5 insider tips for hosting an open house like a pro!
An open house allows sellers to showcase their homes. It enables buyers to explore different features, like turning on the lights, admiring the detailed molding, and even trying out the bathroom. For sellers, hosting an open house is a chance to impress potential buyers. It offers them a pleasant surprise, allowing them to envision themselves living in your house. Keep reading to learn expert tips for hosting a successful open house for buyers.
Choose the Right Time
- Agents usually schedule the open house for two to three hours on Saturdays and Sundays, typically between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. These times allow potential buyers to attend without conflicting with work schedules.
Avoid scheduling the open house during holidays, major community events, such as marathons), or informal holidays to attract more buyers.
Consider Simple Staging
- Many agents suggest staging as the most effective way to enhance your home’s appeal. Staging might involve renting new furniture or decor for specific rooms, depending on your agent’s recommendations. Additionally, there are simple staging techniques you can implement on the day of the open house.
For instance, you could place a bouquet of fresh flowers in the entryway, set the dining room table to create an inviting atmosphere, or turn on outdoor sprinklers to give your lawn a fresh look just before visitors arrive.
Let Your Agent Lead the Way
- The seller agent acts as the director, providing instructions on how to prepare for the open house and guiding you through the event. To potential buyers, your agent serves as the host. They warmly welcome visitors, highlight your home’s notable features, and address any inquiries from attendees.
Your primary responsibility is to ensure your home looks its best. Your agent, equipped with local real estate expertise and buyer preferences, takes care of the rest. Additionally, it’s advisable to step out of the house because:
- Buyers prefer to explore properties independently without feeling pressured or influenced by the seller.
- Seller presence can hinder buyers’ ability to envision themselves in the home.
- Homeowners may unintentionally disclose information that could affect negotiation. For example, they might highlight a feature that they love, but that could turn off buyers.
Check for Odors
Unpleasant smells can quickly turn off potential buyers during an open house. About a week before the event, have your agent conduct a thorough smell check.
Here are some potential solutions:
- If pet odors persist in your home, deep clean the carpets, relocate the litter box and take measures to remove all traces of pet smells.
- For musty basement odors, invest in a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air and use a fan to improve air circulation.
- If the kitchen drain smells, try pouring a cup of baking soda followed by two cups of white vinegar down the drain. Let the mixture sit for 20 to 30 minutes, then flush with hot water for 15 to 30 seconds to eliminate the odor.
Offer Refreshments
Additionally, serving refreshments gives guests a reason to linger longer, as they won’t feel rushed to leave due to hunger or thirst. Your agent may have connections with a local cafe or bakery, which could provide snacks in exchange for free advertising at the open house.
Looking for a trustworthy realtor in Morris County? Contact Jackie Scura. We are an experienced team of real estate professionals who provide expert guidance and support throughout the home-selling process. Call us at (973) 604-8868 for more information.
