10 TIPS FOR A PERFECT OPEN HOUSE

1| USE SIGNS

The first of our open house tips may seem obvious: large, colorful, and easy-to-read signs are the best old-school method for directing foot traffic. Your agent will have plenty of experience with this so they’ll be able to help you find the best spots to place them.

2| HIRE A TECHIE

When you’re shopping for a realtor, look for someone who knows how to market homes well on the web. You’ll want your listing to be promoted online to increase exposure and potential visitors. At Cheng Real Estate Group, we not only optimize your online listing so it’s easy to find by potential buyers, but we proactively look for ways to get your home in front of qualified buyers both off and online.

3| TIME IT RIGHT

Many Madison-area open houses are held Saturdays or Sundays in the early afternoon. For a competitive advantage, try expanding your open house times to include off-peak hours, i.e. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Team up with your agent to survey open house times in your area so you can find the right time for your specific situation.

4| STAY NEUTRAL

It’s important that potential buyers can see themselves living in the property, so keep furnishings, art, and decorations as neutral as possible. Put anything potentially offensive or too personalized, like religious art, political messaging, or family photos, out of sight.

5| STRIVE TO BE SPOTLESS

Clutter and dirt can prevent a sale on even the best of properties. If you don’t have time to do everything yourself, hire a professional cleaning service to help. Make sure to ask your agent if they have any recommendations, as they’ve probably worked with cleaning services before.

6| LIGHT IT UP

Before you open the door to visitors, turn on every light in your house and open all blinds and curtains. A well-lit house will look and feel better than a dark, gloomy one.

7| PREP IMPORTANT INFO

The Balance suggests that you ask your agent to prepare all relevant documentation like inspection reports, appraisal or comps, major repairs and warranties, and blueprints for any future additions and improvements. Our listing agents like to have these documents handy during open houses so they are ready for quick reference.

8| GET SECURE

Lock up your valuables, stow fragile antiques, and turn off and unplug all computers.

9| BE FRIENDLY

If you’re planning to be present for your open house, the best thing to wear is a friendly smile. Greet each visitor and ask what they’re looking for in a home—you’re the best person to explain why this home meets their needs.

10| PROVIDE SNACKS

It’s a universal truth: people love free food. Set out coffee, tea, cookies, Danishes, or savory hors d’oeuvres. Snacks can help drive traffic and persuade people to linger and learn more about your property.

There is a lot to think about when planning an open house, but want to know the good news? When you partner with Cheng Real Estate Group, your listing agent will know and use these and many more open house tips and tricks to show off your home. We understand that if you’re selling your home, you probably have a lot going on already—our listing agents are ready to jump in and take the open house planning and implementing off your hands so you can focus on getting ready for the move. Give us a call at 608.957.2683 or send us an email to learn more.