Open House Best Practices & Tips
Your open house has every possibility of becoming your most direct path to engaging the prospect—the one who ends up being your buyer. Making that happen takes the kind of ‘luck’ that preparation creates.
STEPS FOR PREPARING FOR YOUR OPEN HOUSE:
1. Keep it clean – Buyers do not want to see dust on surfaces when they walk in. It sets a bad first impression.
2. De-clutter & Depersonalize – Family photos and knickknacks are distracting and need to be put away before your open house. Just think of it as getting a head start on your packing.
3. Fit-it Projects – Remember all those small home projects you have put off for years? Now is the time to tackle those.
4. Paint – A fresh coat of paint (neutral color or white) will make all the difference for showings, and it’s very cost effective!
5. Lighting – If your light fixtures are outdated (for example: gold or brass), time to get new ones or if you are really on a tight budget try a can of spray paint. It can make a huge difference in the way a room feels and it doesn’t cost much. Make sure all light bulbs are in working condition too.
6. Lawn – Spruce up the front lawn for excellent curb appeal. This especially applies in Oregon.
7. Kitchen – Keep surfaces clear of clutter and remove magnets from fridge.
8. Let in the light – Open drapes and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible and you can even add fresh flowers in a vase to add some color.
9. Adjust the temperature – You want to find that happy medium, not too hot or too cold. Usually 70 degrees is a good middle of the road temperature.
10. Valuables – Hide your valuables for open houses, just remember where you stashed them!
11. Leave – The last thing Buyers want is the homeowner there, it makes them feel uncomfortable.