Open House Tips for the Seller:

Why an Open House?:

Sales associates will likely recommend an open house to either introduce a new listing, announce a new asking price or to remind buyers that a home is still for sale. Utilizing a sales associate from a recognized brand is important because many prospective homebuyers will only visit open houses that are being handled by well-known real estate companies.

Invite the Neighbors:

Neighbors can be great marketers and can help deliver open house attendees. They serve as endorsers for the neighborhood while spreading the word that a home is available. Invite the neighborhood for a private showing one-hour prior to the public open house.

Use Signs to Attract Potential Buyers:

Potential buyers drive through neighborhoods on weekends searching for places they are interested in living, and real estate sales associates know how to entice those buyers into stopping by your home. Sales associates often place "Open House" signs at nearby well-traveled intersections with directions to the open house. The sales associate will know local ordinances about when and how long signs can be posted.

Offer Fact Sheets/Brochures:

The sales associate will provide prospective homebuyers with information about the property and price. Effective take- aways may include details about the property's best features, the neighborhood and other relevant information such as proximity to shopping, main highways, schools and recreational facilities. Photographs help prospective buyers remember the house. Previous inspection reports and a list of home improvements, new appliances and/or fixtures are also helpful. A sales associate will also know how to properly disclose any major property defects.

Maximize Curb Appeal:

Ensure that the outside of the home looks as appealing as possible. Water and mow the lawn, trim the trees, cut back overgrowth and plant colorful flowers. Also, store bicycles, gardening equipment and children's toys, and remove the car from the driveway to provide parking. In addition, be sure the front door has a "welcome" feeling; a fresh coat of paint works wonders.

Nice and Tidy Sells:

Potential buyers will want to review all parts of the home from the bedrooms and the bathrooms to the basement and the garage. It is imperative to create a positive experience for the potential buyer. Remove all clutter and make sure all lights are working throughout the house. A sales associate might even suggest baking cookies or burning candles to make the home smell pleasant.

Let the Sun Shine In:

Nothing improves atmosphere like a room filled with natural light. Homebuyers should let their sales associate know when sunlight best accents the rooms so open house scheduling can coincide. If it is cold, heat the rooms. If there is a fireplace, consider lighting it. During warm weather, opening windows to let in a breeze is a nice touch.

To Be There or Not To Be There?

The sales associate can market the home objectively and answer questions, as well as conduct follow-up with interested parties. Ideally, a seller should not attend his or her own open house. After all, this has been the seller's home and potential buyers will want to view it with a critical eye.