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Open houses have been a long-standing part of real estate — some people love them, others wonder if they really make a difference. As an agent who’s hosted plenty of them over the years, I can tell you this: open houses still have a lot of value when done right.
1. More exposure for the home
There’s no denying it — the more eyes on a home, the better. Open houses help attract potential buyers who may not have scheduled a private showing yet, but are curious. Sometimes those visitors are serious buyers who just need to see the right house to make a move, and other times they’re neighbors who may know someone looking to move into the area. Either way, it creates buzz and visibility.
2. Convenience for buyers
Open houses give buyers an easy, low-pressure way to see a home in person. No need to schedule or feel rushed — they can explore, get a feel for the layout, and picture themselves living there. Especially for buyers new to an area, open houses are a great way to get a sense of different neighborhoods and price points all in one afternoon.
3. Helpful feedback for sellers
An open house isn’t just about attracting offers — it’s also about gathering insight. The feedback I get from visitors can be valuable: things like what stood out, what they’d change, or how the price feels compared to others they’ve seen. All of that helps guide sellers as we position the home for the best results.
4. Preparation matters
A successful open house doesn’t happen by accident. It takes preparation — cleaning, decluttering, turning on all the lights, maybe baking cookies or lighting a candle to make it feel inviting. Marketing ahead of time is key too: online promotion, signs, and social posts help draw people in. I like to think of it as a home’s “showtime” moment — a chance to make a strong first impression.
The bottom line:
Open houses are still a powerful tool — not because they sell every single home directly, but because they build momentum, create opportunity, and get people talking. Whether it’s a curious neighbor, a serious buyer, or someone just starting their home search, every person who walks through the door helps move the process forward.
