Ready, Set, Show! A Fun & Foolproof Guide to Hosting a Standout Open House
Planning to host an open house? Great call, but let’s make sure it’s not a flop. Whether you’re a first-timer or need a refresher, this guide will walk you through the smartest moves and avoidable missteps to make your open house a true crowd-pleaser, while securing you the best buyer on the market.
Why Bother With an Open House?
Before we begin, let’s clear up some things: open houses can be worth it, big time. They might not always spark an instant offer, but that is not the only goal. You should instead think of your open house as your property’s red carpet moment–a chance to shine, build buzz, and attract the right buyers or buyer’s agents. Below is what an open house can do for you:
- Boost visibility and create momentum.
- Shorten the time your listing sits on the market.
- Generate buyer leads for this and future deals.
- Help prospective buyers fall in love with the home in real life.
Just because you might not get an offer at the event doesn’t mean it wasn’t a win. With good follow-up, today’s browsers can become tomorrow’s buyers.
Do: Host a Broker’s Open First
Before opening the doors to the public, we recommend inviting the experts. A broker’s open house is like a VIP sneak peek for agents and industry folks alike. They will provide valuable feedback, help spread the word, and potentially have connections with potential buyers in their network. A bonus is that it’s a great way to expand your professional network.
Tip: Offer light refreshments, have plenty of listing sheets available, and make your property look its best.
Do: Get the Word Out
You can have the most stunning open house ever, but if no one shows up, it is a wasted opportunity. Market your event everywhere your prospective buyers are, including the following:
- Paid ads on Facebook & Instagram
- Classic lawn signs with precise details
- Flyers at local cafes and bulletin boards
- Email blasts to your list
- Direct mail postcards
- Your website or blog
- MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, and Craigslist
The more visibility, the more foot traffic. Simple as that.
Do: Deep Clean and Declutter
Nothing can kill a buyer’s interest faster than dusty baseboards or mystery stains. Before your open house, the home should be spotless, even if that means deep cleaning every nook and cranny. Suggest hiring a pro if needed. Also, declutter like a minimalist on a mission: less stuff equals more space, meaning better impressions.
Think: Clean windows, fresh-smelling rooms, polished floors, and organized closets.
Do: Stage Like a Pro
Now that everything’s clean and cleared, bring in the charm. Staging helps buyers imagine their future life in the living space. Use furniture to define each room’s purpose, add fresh flowers or greenery, open the blinds, and turn on all the lights. Background music? Soft and welcoming. Vibe? Warm, fresh, and inviting.
Do: Print Property Info Sheets
Don’t let guests leave empty-handed. Have printed property description sheets ready with all the key details:
- Address and price
- Home features (beds, baths, square footage, year built)
- Property taxes
- High-quality photos
- Your contact info and social media
- Disclosure: You represent the seller
This gives them something to remember both the home and you by.
Don’t: Let the Seller Hang Around
As much as sellers love their homes, prospective buyers often prefer not to take a tour from the current owner. Their presence can make buyers feel uncomfortable, and they frequently come across as too chatty, revealing things that might weaken negotiations. Instead, could you ask sellers and their pets to leave the premises during the open house? Buyers need space to explore and imagine.
Don’t: Pick the Wrong Time
Timing is everything. The best open houses happen on weekends, ideally between 11 am and 5 pm. Weekdays are too hectic, holidays are a no-go, and if the weather doesn’t play nice? Postpone it. Also, avoid competing with major events like the Super Bowl, unless you’re serving nachos.
Don’t: Forget About Curb Appeal
The front yard is your property’s first impression, so you should be able to make it count. A tidy lawn, fresh mulch, clean gutters, and a new welcome mat go a long way. Power wash the exterior, trim those bushes, and hide toys or tools lying around. If it looks great from the street, more people will want to come inside.
Don’t: Assume Every Property Requires an Open House
Not all homes are suited for open houses. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you know if the property is easily accessible?
- Does it have unique features worth showing off?
- Is it located in a busy or desirable area?
- Are there a few other listings nearby?
- Does it show well?
Final Thoughts
Hosting an open house can be a game-changer, but only if it is done right. With the right timing, marketing, and presentation, you will attract more buyers, generate new leads, and build buzz around your listing. So clean up, stage smart, and put your best foot forward–your next offer might walk through the door. Trust the real estate professionals at Benchmark Realty to guide you in finding and settling down in the home of your dreams in the many stunning historic Nashville, TN, neighborhoods today.