Open House Step-by-step Plan

Here's a step-by-step plan to ensure a successful open house:

Before the Open House

1. Plan and Promote

  • Set the date and time for the open house, typically on weekends for maximum foot traffic.

    • Make sure that if you are NOT the listing agent, that the listing agent has updated the MLS with times and that it is syndicating to the internet search sites.

  • Notify neighbors to generate local interest and ask them to spread the word. This is a great time for door knocking and cold calling neighbors to invite them to the open.

  • Advertise online by listing on social media platforms and real estate websites if not already noted.

  • Send email invites to clients, prospective buyers, and other agents in the area.

2. Prepare the Property

  • Pre-walk the property if possible. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with the area and home. Find out the age of the roof, HVAC, water heater, and any other items that potential buyers may have questions on. Review any disclosures and reports. You may see that the walk way needs sweeping and can prepare to bring a broom if necessary.

  • Verify if the home is staged. If the home is vacant, you may want to bring a chair and a fold out table to display flyers, business cards, etc.

3. Gather and Organize Materials

  • Print marketing materials such as property flyers, neighborhood info, and a sign-in sheet.

  • Charge electronic devices and ensure you have extra chargers, a portable speaker, and other tech essentials.

  • Prepare refreshments if offering (bottled water, individually wrapped snacks, etc.).

  • Gather your open house signs. If you do not own your own signs, make sure to stop by the office and check them out via the QR code. Signs can run low so make sure you are prepared. If picking them up over a weekend, make sure to bring your office key to access the office.

During the Open House

1. Set the Atmosphere

  • Arrive early (about an hour) to do a final walkthrough, ensuring each room looks its best.

  • Turn on lights in every room, open blinds for natural light, and ensure the temperature is comfortable.

  • Play soft background music if appropriate, to create a welcoming ambiance.

  • Set up signage with directional signs around the neighborhood. This will be the last thing you do so make sure the home is ready for showing when you return as some people may arrive early. **Make sure to lock the property when going to put out signs

  • Set up signage with directional signs around the neighborhood. Make sure to have signed leading from major thoroughfares to reach the most eyes. Start with the signs furthest from the home and work your way back. COUNT HOW MANY SIGNS YOU HAVE to make sure all are collected at the end of the open house. If needed, mark on a map where the signs are for easier collection.

  • If hosting an open house for another agent, text/email them to let them know you are there and have everything under control for them.

2. Welcome Guests

  • Greet each guest warmly as they arrive and invite them to sign in.

  • Hand out brochures/flyers and provide a brief overview of the property.

  • Point out key features (e.g., new appliances, unique details) and invite them to explore.

  • Answer questions but avoid hovering; give guests space to walk around.

3. Engage and Collect Feedback

  • Ask guests questions about their needs and impressions to gauge interest.

  • Take notes on feedback, requests for more info, or comments that can help with future showings.

  • Provide neighborhood insights (schools, parks, shopping centers) based on the guest’s interests.

4. Keep Safety in Mind

  • Ensure guests’ shoes are clean or use shoe covers if needed.

  • Secure valuables or ask the seller to remove them in advance.

  • Monitor the space from a distance, keeping track of who’s in each room.

After the Open House

1. Closing up the open house

  • Safely lock up the property. Lock the front door to make sure as you close up, no one enters the home without your knowledge.

  • Check all windows to make sure they are all locked. Parties have been known to go to an open house and unlock a window so they can return later for easy access.

  • Return the home to how you found it. Turn off lights, return temp settings to original position, reset alarm, etc.

  • Collect Open house signs. If using Grounded signs, make sure to return them to the office and check them in via the QR code.

2. Follow up with Listing Agent

  • If you are holding the open house for another agent, Make sure to email them a summary of the open house including how many groups came through, positive or negative comments about the home, and if there are any issues that need to be addressed before other open houses or showings.

3. Follow Up with Leads

  • Contact every guest who signed in within 24 hours, thanking them for attending and offering additional information.

  • Gather additional feedback to understand their interest level and any questions they might have.

  • Send follow-up emails with virtual tours or more listing details for those particularly interested.

4. Provide the Seller with a Summary (If you are the listing agent)

  • Report back to the seller by the end of the day with feedback, interest levels, and any suggestions for improvement based on guest responses.

  • Share the open house traffic numbers and any actionable items to improve for future viewings if needed.

5. Analyze and Adjust

  • Assess marketing efforts (online and signage placement) and guest engagement to refine future open house strategies.

  • Review your notes on guest feedback and areas of high/low interest to improve your pitch.

4. Organize Materials for Next Time

  • Restock flyers and marketing materials to ensure you’re ready for the next open house.

  • Store signage and tech equipment in a dedicated spot for future use.

This plan ensures each phase of the open house is carefully managed to maximize guest engagement, gather meaningful feedback, and create a positive experience for both potential buyers and sellers.