How to host an open house and attract serious offers
How to host an open house and attract serious offers
The Basics
If the owner resides in the home currently, give them at least three to five days of advance notice so that they can schedule plans elsewhere during the open house. Make sure the apartment, condo, townhouse, or estate is meticulously cleaned beforehand. Wipe down all surfaces inside the apartment and make sure dishes are cleaned and trash is removed. Make sure to have show sheets printed well in advance and that they are cleanly designed with all of the relevant information and financials regarding the residence.
Advertising
It is crucial that you advertise the open house online earlier during the week. There are numerous online platforms that allow agents to advertise listings and open houses. These portals include but are not limited to; Zillow, StreetEasy, Trulia, Realtor.com and many others. Agents at Nest Seekers International are particularly fortunate because our listings are advertised across these platforms instantly at no cost to the individual agent or the homeowner. In addition, make certain that the open house is advertised to the brokerage community.
Open House Day
Arrive 30 minutes early to straighten up if necessary (see above) and to greet the owner on his or her way out. When guests arrive greet them with a warm smile and an introduction at the door. Upon entering the home request that the guests sign in and provide their name and contact information. Accompany the guests on tours throughout the property to give them the tour or answer any questions they may have. If you are predicting a particularly busy turnout, enlist the help of others in your brokerage firm to help with the flow of buyers and other agents. When all of the guests have departed, gather your things, turn off all the lights and secure the property for the homeowner.
Follow Up
Make sure to follow up promptly with everyone who signed in and took a tour of the open house. Write a personal thank you to anyone who appeared particularly interested and offer to answer any questions they may have or accommodate additional showings.
