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Listen, gang — despite what some “civilians” (non-real-estate agents) believe, open houses aren’t all blowing up balloons and putting out cookies (as you know). They’re prime opportunities for you to meet prospects, generate leads and position yourself as the neighborhood’s go-to agent.
Plus, they’re your chance to get out there and get to know the people in the neighborhoods you want to serve and brand yourself. Eager to turn your open houses into must-see events?
April is NAR’s National Fair Housing Month, and this is a great time to step up your open house game and build more opportunities for a broader audience to get involved in real estate in your local market.
Here are 7 fresh, fabulous strategies to get you there
1. Treat it like a Broadway audition (without the singing — please)
When hosting an open house, you’re stepping into the spotlight. Think of yourself as the star of your own real estate show. Smile, engage, charm and build rapport. You’re not just selling this home; you’re selling you. Every visitor, neighbor and curious passerby is an opportunity for future business — make each interaction memorable and fun.
2. Dare to be different with scheduling
Listen, Sunday afternoons? Been there, done that. Switch it up by holding open houses during offbeat times like Thursday evenings, Saturday brunch hours or even a weekday lunch break and whatever hours are “normal” for your market — switch it up.
Start earlier or stay later or even both. You’ll attract a different set of buyers who might not normally make it, plus you’ll stand out from the competition.
3. Turn vacant listings into your pop-up office
Got a vacant listing gathering dust? Perfect! Set yourself up with signage, banners, balloons and a table, and make that property your office for the day. Not only will it attract attention from passersby, but you’ll also be visibly active in your farm area — establishing yourself as the agent who’s always on the scene.
4. Go beyond the listing sheet: Tell a story
Instead of just handing out property fact sheets, create a compelling story around the home. Highlight the lifestyle, neighborhood gems and why this home is special — like how close it is to the best schools, favorite coffee spots or parks. People don’t just buy homes; they buy the story that goes with them. Be the agent who makes that story irresistible.
5. Get neighborly — partner up locally
Partner with a beloved neighborhood bakery, café or florist to supply refreshments, snacks or beautiful flower arrangements. Make your open house a community event. Neighbors love supporting local businesses, and they’ll love you for showcasing them. Plus, who doesn’t love free snacks?
6. Up your game with marketing materials
Say goodbye to blurry, flimsy flyers. Invest in professionally printed brochures, glossy postcards and bold signage that scream, “This agent means business!” Quality marketing materials show your professionalism and leave visitors with a lasting impression.
7. Swag it up!
Everyone loves a freebie. Hand out branded takeaways like water bottles, fridge magnets, tote bags or even fun little stress balls shaped like houses. Not only are these conversation starters, but they’ll also keep you top-of-mind long after the open house ends.
Spring up strategies for your next open
This spring, turn your open houses from ordinary to extraordinary by embracing fresh strategies and thinking outside the box. Remember, open houses aren’t just about showing homes — they’re your chance to showcase your expertise, build relationships and become the neighborhood’s agent of choice. So, step up, stand out, and make this your most successful open house season yet.
Darryl Davis is the CEO of Darryl Davis Seminars. Connect with him on Facebook or YouTube.
