Showami wants to be a service that connects agents to help each other with common real estate needs.  Open Houses are a perfect scenario where it might not be the best use of a busy agent’s time to be forced to sit at a house for several hours when they could be out with buyers showing homes. And these are perfect opportunities for newer and less busy agents to help out and possibly pick up a potential buyer.  We are happy to facilitate the connection.

Clear communication and expectations are key to making this a good experience for both agents and the sellers whose house is being held open.  We have prepared the following basics in hopes that it creates a basic framework for successful open houses.  We have broken it down into three sections.  Before - During - After

Before

Prepare Seller for Open House

• Hide / Remove Valuables ( computers, phones, jewelry, prescription drugs, spare keys to house and auto, bills, sensitive paperwork )
• Mow lawn and make exterior look awesome
• Open window blinds and turn all lights on
• Clear off countertops in baths and kitchen
• Make sure temperature is comfortable for time of year
• Remove / hide pet beds, bowls, litter boxes and pet toys
• Smell - No strong odors. Light clean smell is best
• Soft music - Classical is best in main room
• Video and Sound recording / security ( Give notice of recording in progress )
• Offer snacks and bottled water ( typically individually wrapped cookies )

Agent Preparation before Open House

• 48 Hours Prior to event ( social media posts about Open House )
• Give seller information to post on their social media and Nextdoor.com about listing and open house date/time
• Enter Open House info in MLS ( if applicable )
• Deliver Open House flyers/notifications to properties in area
• Prepare property brochure and leave it in Stand with business card
• Have basket at entry with shoe covers and/or remove shoes signage
• Make sure walkways are clean without obstructions or trip hazards
• Purchase Open House signs ( A Frame are best ) https://deesign-products-us.s3.amazonaws.com/Independent_Real_Estate_INDSTOCKA229_.png

During

Agent Actions Day of Open House

• Arrive early and put signs out ( 5 or more is best and at major road intersections going both directions )
• Review Open House Safety Protocols ( https://www.nar.realtor/safety/10-tips-for-holding-a-safe-open-house) Also suggest placing a sign out that says “ Smile Video Cameras in Use” at entry
• Have Registration Sheet ready or use app like Curb Hero
• Put out water and snacks
• Open window blinds and turn all lights on
• Make sure temperature is comfortable for time of year
• Be warm and friendly ( Watch Loida’s video )

Agent Actions After Open House

• Clean Up House and shut lights off and lock up
• Pick up Signs
• Give Feedback to Agent ( if hosting somebody else's listing ) or seller
• Follow Up with people who registered or their agent if represented

If you are hosting another agent’s open house through Showami, please communicate with the other agent to be clear what your responsibilities and expectations are.  Everyone does open houses a little differently and it’s best to understand what the other agent needs you to do.