How to make the most of open houses.
I was reading an article in Realtor Magazine on how to make the most of open houses… There’s an on-going debate as to whether or not open house actually bring it buyers. With the intranet literally at our fingertips 24/7 (think cell phones), wouldn’t it be fair to assume that most of the “real” buyers are doing the majority of their house hunting online?
Is the era of the “open house” coming to an end?
Some agents will tell you its a waste of time and others will swear up and down that their track records show open houses do indeed get the house sold.
Whichever side of the fence they’re own, all agents agree that open house serve as a “prospecting opportunity; a way to pipeline future business.” Others see it as an outdated waste of time.
However, if you’re one of those who still believes open houses sell houses then here’s a list of ways to make your Open Houses more successful:
1. Use the intranet to your advantage – promote it as widely as you can and as early as you can! A week in advance is a good place to start!
2. Put out signs: and put them out early.. usually 3-4 days in advance is good.
3. Develop a rapport with the people coming in the door! – don’t just stand there, as them what they are looking for, what they like, and try and market the home!
4. Use the neighbors to your advantage. They are likely to be the best marketing tool you’ll have! Invite them to the open house or at the very least make them aware of it. They want good neighbors so they will make their yard/curb appeal look its best and in turn that will be a big turn on for buyers stopping by.
*article information taken from realtormag.com
