There is a golden rule when it comes to selling your home. This rule is hosting a successful open house. An effective open house spurs interest, creates urgency, and solicitation of offers. Here are some of the do’s and don’ts when planning an open house.
Do: Clean and Declutter
Arguably, the most important thing you can do to prepare for an open house is to deep clean and declutter the home. If a buyer has to think their way through a mess, they will not be able to envision themselves in the space. Clean each room from top to bottom, especially the kitchen and bathroom. Create a neutral environment that’s inviting.
- Helpful Hint: Rent a storage unit and store extra furniture and personal items when trying to sell your home. You will have your home look less cluttered and more open.
First impressions begin at the curb. It is important to ensure that the outside view of your home is welcoming. It is the first thing your visitors will see. Mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and put in fresh flowers if needed. A fresh coat of paint on the front door or power washing of the exterior can also work.
- Helpful Hint: Make sure there is a clear path to your house and that your walkway is well-lit, especially if the open house is not during daylight hours. Note: A welcoming entry is probably one of the best first impressions—not to mention it sets the stage for the entire tour.
Home staging can really make your house come to life. Cooler measures, such as reorganization or renting furniture, will get your home ready. Your emphasis should be on the big living areas, such as the living room, dining room, and master bedroom of the home. Arrange the furniture in a way that emphasizes the areas of your home and brings out the flow and functionality in the home.
- Helpful Hint: Not sure what to do about staging your home? Wendy Gimpel Real Estate has professional stagers to assist in making your property attractive.
Don’t: Neglect Small Repairs
During an open house, visitors are going to notice even the tiniest of things. Little things like a leaky faucet, chipped paint, or a nonexistent doorknob may cause potential buyers to believe you do not take care of your home. Small repairs will help make your open house successful.
- Helpful Hint: Make a list of those little fixes and check them off one at a time.
Do: Create a Warm, Inclusive Atmosphere
Make visitors feel as if they are coming home. Set the mood with scented candles, baking cookies, or playing soft background music. These little touches will give the buyers an emotional connection to your home.
- Helpful Hint: Provide light snacks or at least have bottled water out during your open house. That invites visitors to linger a little longer and see all that is great about your home.
Don’t: Be Home When Hosting an Open House
As much as it might almost tempt you to stay and see what home buyers have to say about your open house, this job should be left to your real estate agent. If the seller is present, potential buyers will more than likely feel uneasy about asking questions or talking freely. Let your agent host the open house and bring back feedback to you.
- Helpful Hint: Plan to be out for the day. Be out for the day and let your agent handle the open house.
An open house is all about bringing every single detail together and making a strategy to set the stage. Always remember the ensuing do’s and don’ts to create a warm and attractive ambiance that will be appealing to potential buyers. Visit Wendy Gimpel Real Estate for more advice on how to stage your home and prepare to sell it in no time.