I know for a lot of agents, the long 4th of July weekend is just another opportunity to get buyers into your listings. We reached out on Twitter and Facebook using #openhousetip to get some great, insider knowledge on how to throw the best open house around.
Below are tips from the experts.
1. Show your local flare
InmanNext contributor and HouseLens marketing guru Kathryn Royster says, “Have a community video made and have it playing at the open house. If the homeowner doesn’t want it playing on their TV, just set up your iPad or laptop in central location. That way, people can not only see how great the house is, they can see that the community’s great, too!
Kathryn also says, “Instead of baking cookies, get some doughnuts or cupcakes or muffins from a locally owned bakery. They might do it cheaply if you set out some signage for them. Again, selling people on the location as well as the house.”
2. Invite the neighbors
Bryan Robertson, the CEO of Catarra Real Estate, recommends holding a neighbors-only open house. “Hand-deliver the invitations to the closest 150-200 neighbors. The response can be amazing with lots of insights into the history of the house and neighborhood even the owners didn’t know.”
3. Be prepared. In fact, be overly prepared!
Macken Realty agent and PR maven Jennifer Becker comes overly prepared to her opens. After all, you never know what you may find — or not find — in your listing! Jennifer says, “Create a Realtor tool box. Pack it with paper towels, cleaning sprays, measuring tape, fliers, checklist, iPad, etc.”
4. Stock the fridge
Albie Vas of Keller Williams Realty of Las Vegas has a great tip for keeping guests refreshed on a hot day. Show off a gorgeous (and clean) refrigerator by stocking it with cold beverages.
Refrigerator photo courtesy of Albie Vas’ Facebook page
What other pro tips do you have for agents who are working all weekend long? Share them on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using #openhousetip, or comment below.
