Even in the age of the internet, an open house is still a popular event that gets buyers in the door. If you’re thinking about hosting one of your own, there are a few steps you can take that will make your place stand out among the competition. Ready to start preparing? Here’s everything you should do before hosting your open house.
Clean and Declutter
Alright, this one might seem like a given, but we want to emphasize just how important it is. Your space will face a lot of scrutiny at an open house. Buyers, browsers, and neighbors are going to explore every inch of your home, so it’s crucial to get it looking its best.
Not sure where to start? You’re already ahead of the game if you did a deep clean before listing. If your place is relatively tidy, it’s best to refresh high traffic areas, such as your kitchen and living room, before the open house. However, if you’ve fallen behind, you should consider enlisting your agent, professional organizers, or cleaners for some help.
Stage Your Home
Did you know that a staged home often sells quicker than its unstaged competition? Many sellers believe that staging is hard and costly, but that’s simply not the case. Adding a few touches can really spruce up your space and generate buzz at your open house.
If you’re on the hunt for some staging tricks, we have a few you might want to try. Stroll through the aisles of your local discount store for throw pillows, blankets, or other neutral decor options. Soft textiles and appropriate accents always help buyers feel at home. Your agent may also suggest rearranging your furniture to maximize space—just drop them a line for some advice.
Offer Refreshments
Many buyers check out a few open houses in one afternoon, which means snacks are almost always welcome. You don’t have to spend a lot of money or be a good cook to leave a good impression, either!
Before you leave anything out, be sure to check with your agent to see if it’s okay. You can never go wrong with some cut-and-bake cookies—and they’ll also get your home smelling fabulous. If you’re in a pinch, some bottled water and chocolates also do the trick.
Spread the Word
Want to really draw a bigger audience to your open house? Even if you add plenty of unique touches, nobody will see them if you don’t get the word out! Your agent will probably do most of the work here, but there are a few ways you can promote an open house on your own.
Social media is a great (and free!) way to let people know about your open house. You never know who might be in the market for a new place, so there’s no harm in sharing a post a few days beforehand. Your agent may even suggest holding a private showing for neighbors—they can help attract attention before the main event.
Ready to Ace Your Open House?
Open houses might seem like a chore, but they’re still a valuable tool for sellers and agents alike. Want to learn more about listing your Erie home? Just contact Marsha Marsh Real Estate Services for all the selling resources you could ever need.