An open house is a golden opportunity to make potential buyers feel at home and fall in love with the property. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate agent or a homeowner hosting your own open house, here are proven strategies to make your open house memorable, welcoming, and engaging.
1. Stage for a Lasting First Impression
Staging creates an environment where buyers can picture themselves living in the space. Focus on the following areas:
- Living Room: Arrange furniture to showcase openness and flow. Use throw pillows and blankets for a cozy touch.
- Kitchen: Clear counters of all appliances, set out a bowl of fresh fruit, and add a bouquet of flowers to make the kitchen feel vibrant and clean.
- Bedrooms: Use neutral bedding and curtains. Ensure the space feels light, spacious, and inviting.
- Bathrooms: Stock with fresh towels, hand soap, and add a small plant or candle for a spa-like ambiance.
Pro Tip: Avoid personal touches, like family photos, to make the space feel more universally appealing.
2. Add Curb Appeal
The exterior is the first thing buyers see, so make sure it’s appealing and inviting.
- Clean and Paint: Clean the siding, windows, and pathways, and touch up paint on the door, if needed.
- Landscaping: Mow the lawn, plant seasonal flowers, or add potted plants by the entrance.
- Outdoor Lighting: If you’re hosting an evening open house, make sure pathways and the front door are well-lit for safety and a welcoming glow.
Tip: Place a cheerful welcome sign or fresh doormat to enhance the first impression.
3. Provide Refreshments and Snacks
Food can make buyers linger and feel more at ease. Here are some ideas that work well:
- Easy snacks: Fresh-baked cookies, mini muffins, or individually wrapped pastries make for a homey vibe.
- Beverages: Offer water, coffee, tea, and perhaps a few seasonal drinks like apple cider in the fall or lemonade in summer.
- Presentation: Use a nice tray or table setup near the entrance or kitchen, giving buyers a place to gather and chat.
Pro Tip: Offer a few local treats (like pastries from a local bakery) to subtly connect the home with the surrounding community.
4. Utilize Light and Scent
Create a bright, fresh-smelling space by focusing on lighting and scents:
- Natural Light: Open blinds and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible.
- Warm Lighting: Use warm-toned bulbs and add table lamps or floor lamps if any areas feel too dim.
- Scent: Avoid artificial sprays; instead, go for subtle scents like a few essential oil diffusers with lavender, citrus, or cedarwood.
Note: Bake a fresh batch of cookies or heat up cinnamon sticks in water on the stove for an inviting aroma that doesn’t overwhelm.
5. Create a Dedicated Info Station
Set up an area with all the property details, including brochures, floor plans, and contact information.
- Table Setup: Choose an entryway table or a corner in the living room.
- Essential Documents: Include copies of the listing sheet, recent upgrades, community information, and school district details.
- Digital Option: Provide a QR code to a website or online listing so buyers can access digital materials directly on their phones.
Pro Tip: Add a small dish of mints or candy for an extra touch.
6. Highlight Unique Selling Points
Show off the property’s best features by drawing attention to them.
- Smart Home Features: If the home has a smart thermostat, lighting, or security system, show them in action.
- Outdoor Areas: If there’s a beautiful backyard or patio, set it up with comfortable seating and maybe a few outdoor lanterns.
- Upgrades and Amenities: Point out recent renovations, high-end appliances, or custom cabinetry—anything that adds value.
Idea: Consider printing out small “feature tags” near these areas to note special details buyers may overlook.
7. Host a Virtual Open House Simultaneously
Some potential buyers might not be able to attend in person, so a virtual open house can expand your reach.
- Streaming Platform: Use Instagram Live, Zoom, or Facebook Live to stream your tour.
- Highlight Key Areas: Walk through each room, describing features and answering questions in real-time.
- Post-Event Access: Make a recording available for those who couldn’t attend live.
Tip: Send invites to those who showed interest online and encourage them to tune in.
8. Encourage Engagement with a Feedback Station
Knowing what buyers think can be incredibly useful.
- Feedback Cards: Provide short questionnaires asking what they liked most and any questions they have.
- Drop Box: Set up a box or basket by the exit where they can leave feedback cards.
- Incentive: Consider a small giveaway or entry into a raffle for submitting feedback.
Example Feedback Questions:
- What did you like most about the property?
- What questions do you have?
- Is there anything you’d like to see differently?
9. Create a Takeaway Bag
Offer small take-home bags with property information and a thoughtful token.
- Bag Contents: Include a brochure, floor plan, community information, and a small branded item like a pen or keychain.
- Local Touch: Add a business card from a nearby restaurant, a map of local attractions, or a small guide to the area.
- Branded Packaging: Use bags with your real estate logo or add a simple, professional label for added branding.
Idea: Add a small plant or mini candle in each bag as a memorable token that potential buyers will associate with the home.
10. Promote on Social Media and Local Channels
An open house needs visibility to attract the right buyers.
- Social Media Marketing: Post on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and tag relevant local groups or hashtags.
- Email Blast: Send an invitation to your list of contacts, including previous clients and prospective buyers.
- Community Boards: Post flyers on neighborhood bulletin boards or community Facebook groups.
Pro Tip: Share “sneak peek” images of the home’s best features to generate excitement before the event.
Final Tips for a Successful Open House
- Use directional signs near the property to help guide potential buyers, especially if the home is in a less visible area.
- Schedule strategically: Weekends are best, especially Saturdays between 1-4 PM, when people are more available.
- Prepare for follow-up: Be ready to answer any questions and follow up with attendees afterward.
With these open house strategies, you’ll make a lasting impression that could easily turn visitors into buyers. Good luck with your open house!