There is a myriad of ways to market real estate in the 21st century, but in the end the traditional open house is still one of the best types of marketing out there. If you are gearing up for your own open house, you might want to incorporate these 7 tips into your preparation. These can make any open house more effective, and they could even make your home sell more quickly.
1. Use Social Media to Market Your Open House
Doepels use social media all the time to promote new listings and open homes. Be sure to advertise your upcoming open house on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, and share it with your friends! Even if your immediate circle of family members and friends are not interested, you never know how far the information you post will reach.
2. Open Things Up
Your goal is to make your home look as attractive, bright and airy as possible. Be sure to turn on all the lights and open all the blinds and curtains before the first would-be buyers arrive.
3. Contact Local Artists and Designers
High-end artwork on the walls and designer furniture in the den are staples of the professional home staging industry, but what if you do not have the budget for those big-ticket purchases? Reach out to local artists, interior designers and galleries to discuss a loan or short-term rental. Your home will look its best, and you will not have to break the bank.
4. Have the House Professionally Cleaned
It may cost you $100 or so, but having the home professionally staged and freshly polished can pay off big in the long run. Buyers expect to walk into an immaculate space when they attend an open house, and the last thing you want to do is turn them off with dust and dirt.
5. Avoid Scented Cleaners and Products
Filling the air with heavy scents could prompt buyers to wonder what is being covered up. Stick to unscented cleaners and products with pleasant but neutral aromas. Subtle fresh flowers and other ‘homely’ aromas are always a winner.
6. Use Seasonal Décor
Make sure your décor matches the season — think reds, oranges and yellows in the autumn and bright happy colours in the spring. The seasonal décor will make your home look more attractive and make open house attendees feel more welcome.
7. Spruce Up Your Front Door
Even if the front door already has a fresh coat of paint, there are things you can do to make it look even better. From a new accent light above the front door to a gorgeous flowering pot on the doorstep, there are plenty of ways to make the exterior even more appealing.
Whether you are selling a modest starter home or a multi-million dollar property, the humble open house can be a valuable sales tool. Making the most of it with the tips listed above could help you sell your home more quickly and get the attention of eager qualified buyers.