Hosting Successful Open Houses

Hosting Successful Open Houses

Open houses are one of the best ways to generate interest in a property, meet new potential clients, and demonstrate your expertise as an agent. A successful open house requires preparation, marketing, and thoughtful follow-up.


Step 1: Prepare the Property

  • Clean & Declutter: Ensure the home is spotless, free of personal items, and staged to highlight its best features.

  • Curb Appeal: Mow the lawn, tidy landscaping, and place a welcoming sign or balloons outside.

  • Comfortable Atmosphere: Adjust lighting, open blinds, and set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. Consider light background music.

  • Safety & Security: Remove valuables and make sure the property is secure before and after the event.


Step 2: Market the Open House

  • MLS Listing: Add the open house date and time to your MLS listing.

  • Signage: Place directional signs at key intersections leading to the property.

  • Social Media: Promote on Facebook, Instagram, and local community groups.

  • Email & BoldTrail CRM: Send invites to your sphere of influence and prospects.

  • Broker Network: Share with fellow Dalton Wade agents to encourage cross-promotion.


Step 3: Welcome Guests

  • Sign-In Sheet or Digital Check-In: Collect names, emails, and phone numbers for follow-up.

    • We recommend the BoldTrail Open House App, as it will automatically add client information to your CRM!

  • Feature Sheets: Provide printed flyers or digital packets with property details.

  • Engage Visitors: Greet attendees, answer questions, and highlight the home’s features without being overly pushy.

  • Know the Property: Be prepared to discuss upgrades, neighborhood amenities, schools, and comparable sales.


Step 4: Follow Up

  • Send Thank-You Notes: Email or text attendees thanking them for visiting.

  • Provide Additional Info: Share disclosures, floorplans, or nearby listings of interest.

  • Nurture Leads: Add prospects to BoldTrail and set reminders for follow-up calls or emails.

  • Update the Seller: Provide a report summarizing attendance, feedback, and next steps.


Tips for Success

  • Arrive early to set up and test everything.

  • Keep refreshments simple—bottled water and light snacks work well.

  • Position yourself where you can greet guests but still allow them space to explore.

  • Be approachable, knowledgeable, and professional at all times.


    • Related Articles

    • Safety Tips When Meeting New Clients

      Before the Meeting 1. Pre-Screen Clients: Ask for a copy of their ID before meeting in person (driver’s license or similar). Have them complete a buyer or renter questionnaire. 2. Meet in Public First: Suggest meeting at a coffee shop or another ...
    • Training for Dalton Wade Lead Programs

      At Dalton Wade, we offer several lead programs that require specific training to ensure our agents are fully equipped to succeed. Below is a list of the required training for each program, along with links to register for the next live class. Dalton ...
    • Continuing Education & Licensing Courses

      Dalton Wade agents can easily complete their Continuing Education (CE) requirements or purchase additional courses to become licensed in another state through our partnership with The CE Shop. Why CE Is Important License Renewal: All real estate ...