3 Things You Need to Consider Before You Host an Open House

by Jan Kennemer 09/01/2019

An open house offers an excellent opportunity for a seller to showcase his or her residence to a large group of buyers. As such, it is important for a seller to plan ahead for an open house. If a seller devotes time and energy to prepare for an open house, his or her residence may make a positive impression on buyers.

Ultimately, there are several things that sellers need to consider before they host an open house, such as:

1. Home Interior and Exterior

A home's interior and exterior must dazzle buyers during an open house. Otherwise, a home is unlikely to make a long-lasting impression on a buyer.

To upgrade a house's interior, a seller should clean each room. Mop the floors, wipe down countertops and ensure each room is neat and tidy. Also, professional home cleaning companies are available that can help a seller quickly remove dirt, dust and debris from his or her residence.

Meanwhile, to upgrade a home's exterior, a seller should repair any damaged or cracked siding. If a seller requires extra assistance, he or she can reach out to local home improvement professionals to perform house exterior repairs as well.

2. Lawn Care

A home's messy, weed-filled lawn is unlikely to garner buyers' attention. In fact, this lawn may prove to be an instant turn-off to buyers when they attend an open house.

For sellers, it can be quick and easy to enhance a home's lawn. By mowing the lawn, trimming the hedges and performing other lawn care tasks, a seller can transform a drab lawn into a stunning one.

A seller should continue to take care of his or her lawn throughout the house selling cycle, too. If a home has an amazing lawn, this residence may capture buyers' attention, regardless of when a seller hosts an open house.

3. Clutter

Antiques, knick-knacks and various decorations may fill your house, but these items may appear to be "clutter" in the eyes of homebuyers. Therefore, you may want to put your personal belongings into storage before you host an open house. This will allow you to keep your personal items safe during an open house. At the same time, it will help buyers envision what life could be like if they purchase your residence.

Preparing for an open house sometimes can be difficult. Thankfully, you can hire a real estate agent who can help you plan for any open house, at any time.

A real estate agent can provide recommendations to help you prepare for an open house. Plus, he or she can share buyers' feedback following an open house and ensure you can make your residence into an attractive option for buyers.

Ready to host an open house? Consider the aforementioned factors, and you can get ready for an upcoming open house. And as a result, you can boost the likelihood that an open house leads to multiple offers to purchase your residence.

About the Author
Author

Jan Kennemer

Jan will show you how you can live close to Washington, DC – by public transit and/or highway – and still enjoy all the many amenities and friendliness of a quiet community. Jan is a life-long resident of Arlington, Va. So, she is very familiar with northern Virginia …Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria and close-in Fairfax. She knows where to find those little out-of the-way places where you will still get excellent value and a home that meets your needs. As a Realtor® for over 20 years, Jan has developed a customized system for marketing and selling properties which includes the latest technologies combined with tried and true practices. She has received special training in working with first time buyers, repeat buyers and seniors. She is a certified VHDA trainer and is certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES©). Jan is also a certified e-Pro. She gets results you want – the best price in the shortest time. Jan is dedicated to helping clients satisfy their needs and wants while providing them with a strong investment for the future. She is readily available to provide explanations and information. She won’t push you into making an uncomfortable choice. Jan helps you to fully understand the transaction, so that you can always make an informed decision based on facts and figures.