Tips for a Successful Open House

with Elizabeth Weintraub

Transcript: Tips for a Successful Open House

Hi, I'm Elizabeth Weintraub for About.com. You may have heard many opinions about holding an open house. Common sense says that it is smart to expose your home to the largest number of buyers. In popular areas with a lot of traffic, almost one in five homes can sell through an open house. Here is how to make a successful open house.

Schedule a Convenient Open House

Setting a good time to hold an open house is very important. In many communities, Sunday afternoon works the best. Set the time for two hours at the minimum but the most optimal time is four hours for example from 1-5pm.

Schedule your open house to avoid major holidays or special events such as Super Bowl. Check the weather forecast and try to avoid rainy or snowy days.

Make Visible Open House Signs

Make your open house signs visible. To draw attention, you can attach balloons to your signs. Place signs every few blocks and make sure that your arrows point in the right directions.

Prepare Your Home's Interior

Open the windows so the space is aired. Turn on every light in the house. Stay away from air fresheners because your visitors may be allergic to synthetic odors. Turn on soft music to help set the mood. Serve snacks or cookies, or if your budget permits it, a catered lunch

Display the House Documents

Next, set out all the house documents. That includes inspection reports, appraisals, major repairs and warranties and blueprints for future additions or improvements.

Garner Feedback on the Open House

Last but not least ask for feedback. Ask each buyer what they thought of your home and whether they would consider buying it. You might be surprised by the answer. They might decide to sit down and write an offer.

Even if the people visiting your open house do not end up buying it right There, you will always create word of mouth advertising that will bring your buyers in.

Thanks for watching, please visit us on the Web at homebuying.about.com.

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