If you have just listed your property for sale you may be wondering how to get the most out of your open homes.
Open homes are a vital marketing tool, as they allow prospective buyers to view the property in their own time, in a relaxed and comfortable environment. It is an opportunity for interested parties to envisage the property as their home, so it’s important to put yourself in the shoes of the buyer.
This is where you (as the vendor) have a chance to take hold of the marketing reins, and do your utmost to create the best impression – and ultimately get the best price for your property.
Here are my top 5 tips in preparing for your open home:
1. Plan ahead. Sit down with your real estate sales consultant and mark all of the open home dates into your calendar well in advance. Ensure all residents / family members are aware of these dates and are able to be out of the house at these times, around weekend commitments. Allow ‘house free time’ from 30 minutes before, until 30 minutes after the open home, giving enough space for set-up time and any late comers.
2. Clean to the extreme. Imagine your home is being reviewed by an interiors magazine, and this will set the standard. It may seem a bit over the top, but remember this is your one chance to attract buyers. Although a pristine appearance is important, it can be difficult to achieve with a family. If this is a challenge for you, I recommend enlisting a cleaner beforehand. It may be a small outlay, however think of it as a vital investment in garnering a maximum return for your property. As the old adage goes – you must spend money to make money!
3. Remove personal items. Acquired tidbits, nick-nacks and odd-bobs are a natural part of family living, but effects which are too personal can make potential buyers feel awkward. Removing them can create a cleaner appearance which appeals to a wider market.
4. Inviting people in. Capture attention and entice people into the house from the moment the pull up out front, by ensuring the street appeal, entrance, and lobby is free from shoes, dust, dirt and other objects which may be distracting and/or off-putting.
5. Ambience. Creating an atmosphere is a small albeit crucial finishing touch. Everyone knows the old baked bread trick, but the key thing to remember is the aroma (if any) should not be overpowering or distracting in any way. In fact, a neutral, or very light scent is the ultimate aim. Remember also to ensure there is a good amount of natural light, and a medium temperature.
I hope you find these tips useful in preparing for your open home, and if you have any others I would love to hear from you – please leave your comments below.
Nina James
Mb: 0212937725
Ph: 03 5487705
Email: nina.james@remax-elite.co.nz
Nina James 