To further maximize exposure, your real estate agent may recommend that you have one of two types of opportunities open
houses as soon as the property goes on the market. The first will be an open day for real estate agents.
only. If your home is attractive and well priced, many of the real estate agents at the open house will
Arrange to bring clients to view your home immediately.
Your real estate agent may also recommend one or more open houses for the general public. Although this
type of open house tends to attract a lot of “browsers”, if your house is clean, attractive and has a good price
and in good condition, it could turn a “browser” into a buyer. Some clients want to have the “feel” of
several neighborhoods before starting to work with a real estate agent. Open days will attract these
potential buyers.
Most public open houses are held on a weekend afternoon when potential buyers often have
more time to drive through neighborhoods. You will need to work out dates with your real estate agent that fit
your schedule. If you have pets, the real estate agent may suggest that you move them out of the house during
the open house, as their presence could be distracting.
Your real estate agent may recommend that you and your family be out of the house during open house.
house too. If you stay home, prospective buyers may feel compelled to rush their visit to
avoid bothering you. You want them to feel relaxed and take the time to really look at the features.
of your property.
Potential buyers may also feel uncomfortable discussing your home in your presence. East
It hinders your real estate agent’s ability to sell the house, as buyer feedback is essential to making any deal.
Your real estate agent will suggest ways to prepare your home for an open house so that it is safe,
enjoyable experience for all. Make sure the real estate agent asks for the name, address and
Telephone of all attendees. Your real estate agent should also try to walk through the house
with each visitor.
Here are some general tips to help you prepare for the big day:
o Pay attention to any potential hazards: power lines crossing open areas, sharp table or
countertop corners, slippery stairs and walkways, fragile items that can be easily damaged.
o Lock up or remove valuables such as jewelry, cameras, CDs, coins, and
badge.
o Avoid cooking foods with strong odors such as fish. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee,
homemade bread and cookies can be very welcoming.
o In bad weather, provide a place for galoshes, boots, umbrellas, and coats.
o A warm fire on a cold day will make your home feel inviting and inviting. But make sure your
Realtor is prepared to take care of the fireplace while you are not at home.
A tiny handprint on a wall or the slightest creak of a door can be enough.
distracting some potential buyers. Use this handy checklist to assess
what needs to be cleaned, repaired or changed before opening your home
to potential buyers:
kitchen and bathrooms
o Clean all surfaces, including floors.
o Organize countertops.
o Make sure all sinks and faucets are working properly.
other rooms
o Vacuum and dust all areas thoroughly.
o Pick up and remove all clutter, including excess furniture.
o Store books, toys, and clothes neatly in cabinets and on shelves.
o Clean all mirrors.
o Open the curtains and raise the window shades.
floor coverings
(Includes carpet, tile, linoleum, hardwood, etc.)
o Remove all dirt and stains.
o Repair damaged areas.
o If there is hardwood under the old carpet, remove the carpet and restore the
hardwood – a highly desired feature in today’s homes.
Walls, ceilings, baseboards
o Wipe off fingerprints or smudges.
o Repair holes, cracks, peeling paint, torn wallpaper, water damage.
o If necessary, repaint in neutral or complementary colors.
doors
o Fix squeaks and any other issues.
o Make sure handles are secure and working properly.
windows
o Clean and repair possible cracks.
o Make sure they open easily.
Turning on
o Check that there is enough light.
o Address any broken switches, exposed wiring.
pet areas
These must be clean, organized and odor free.
out of home
Make sure all doors open easily.
Clean all exterior surfaces, including decks, pools, walkways, and driveways, and put them in order.
