With the advent of online real estate search options, the question of whether open houses are obsolete has surfaced. Some agents think the open house is a waste of time and that potential buyers can see houses through engaging photos online; interested buyers can then make appointment to see the house in person. With this in mind, the debate continues as to whether the open house has become obsolete. In spite of all the attention garnered by a property through a dynamic web presence, there are still a host of important benefits open houses bring to the potential buyers.
Open Houses: A Solid Option
The seller, in addition to the potential buyer, can gain valuable information by having an open house. The type of customers coming through and how long they are staying gives valuable information to the seller about the market for the property. On the other hand, the potential buyer can get an actual feel for the home, wander through the layout, imagine their family living there, see the neighborhood and more. Of course, there will be those who come to the open house without the intention of buying, but among the visitors may be some who become seriously interested after seeing the home in person.
How to Avoid the Biggest Open House Mistakes
With a short amount of time in which to impress potential clients, it is imperative you wow them right away. Several mistakes can easily be avoided to make the best impression:
- Get rid of clutter. A messy home is not something that will visitors will ignore.
- Clean up the area outside for debris and add flowers to make the home inviting.
- Take your adorable children and pets away from the house during a showing and stash of toys, litter boxes and any other clutter.
- Get rid of photos and art that are too personal or potentially disagreeable.
- Allow access to all the rooms, even if it means putting things in storage for a while.
- Leave the property, so potential buyers will be more comfortable talking to the agent.
The Best Open House Practices
- Use technology to attract buyers, having your agent list the open house online. Additionally, you will need good photos to show online browsers the best home views.
- Replace brochures with online information, as viewers will want to see the home again via your online presence; have only a few brochures available at the open house.
- Place an “open house” sign with date next to the “for sale” sign. Invite the neighbors; they are your best word-of-mouth resource.
Make Guests Feel Welcome
Getting folks into the kitchen allows them to imagine it as theirs. Serve chocolate chip cookies or snacks in order to have guests hang out a little bit longer while they browse the home and munch on goodies. Additionally, any way to work in local goods or makers in the way of food or local art always makes for a good conversation starter about the home, its location and the local flare.
With these tips, you are sure to have a great and successful Raleigh open house. For more information on selling your home, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
