7 Steps to Preparing for an Open House

We love doing open houses.  It gives buyers a chance to come through and leisurely look at your home.

Many times they had seen the home with their agent earlier but want to go at their own pace.  If you follow these steps, the open house will be more successful.

1. Hire a cleaning service.  It doesn’t have to be spotless, but it should be close to spotless.
2. Mow your lawn and be sure toys and yard equipment are put away.
3. Serve a snack like cookies or candy.  It creates a welcoming touch.  But be sure the kitchen is cleaned up and use disposable cups if drinks are served.
4. Lock up your valuables, jewelry, medicines, and money.  Although we will be on site during the open house, it’s impossible to watch everyone all the time.
5. Turn on all lights.  Even in the daytime lights add sparkle.
6. Send your pets to a neighbor or take them with you.
7. Leave.  It’s awkward for a prospective buyer to look in your closets and express their opinions of your home with you there.

This entry was posted on Friday, July 8th, 2011 at 6:01 pm and is filed under Homeowner Tips, Seller Tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.