Preparing Your Home for an Open House

Posted Sep. 21st 2011 under Real Estate Tips

Quick Tips to Help You Show Your Home

Open Houses will draw potential buyers, neighbours, REALTORS® and others who are just there to "browse" your property. A successful Open House can turn browsers into buyers and help increase the overall demand for your home.

Preparing your home for an Open House should not be consuming. Check out these last-minute touch-ups to ensure a perfect first impression:

Brighten and lighten

Light-filled rooms are always appealing. Open drapes and blinds.
Make sure windows and mirrors are sparkling clean. If there are no windows in the room, make sure the lighting is adequate.
Turn on all the lights, even during the daytime, including outside entrance, closet, basement and attic lights.

Spark your buyer's imagination

Set the dinner table for a formal dinner. Creating the proper atmosphere helps buyers envision themselves living in your home.
On cold days, light a fire. If not in season, make sure the fireplace is clean.
Set out fresh flowers, and hang decorative hand towels in the bathroom.
Put pets in a fenced yard. Better still, ask friends to look after them. Some people may be allergic, and others may be afraid of animals.
If possible, leave! Some buyers are uncomfortable when the owner is in the house. In their hurry to get away, they may miss important features or fail to ask important questions. If you must remain, be courteous, but try not to make conversation. The buyer's real estate agent knows what the buyer is looking for, and can discuss features and answer their questions.

Please the senses

Display lightly scented candles to produce a pleasant aroma for potential buyers.
Put out refreshments to keep people at your open house a little longer.
Odours such as pet and cigarette smells can have a stronger impact on buyers than any positive feature of your home. You might not notice the smell if you're living with it, so get a second opinion before showing the home.

Get feedback

Ask your REALTOR for feedback. What did people like about your property? What did they not like? What could use improvement? By asking for feedback, you will be able to make any necessary adjustments or improvements to your home.