Some agents hold "Broker Open" Houses in Ann Arbor Area of Michigan and what we mean by that is having an open house primarily for other agents from other brokerages. We do it for our sellers. Wanting to get exposure to a new listing and invite real estate agents who don't preview homes to see your listing, just in case they might find a buyer.
The important key to this is to put in the effort to get people to attend! Here is my list of what it takes to make a successful broker open. You might be able to delegate some of these tasks:
YOUR responsibilities and check list:
_____1. Select date/time (just after the local meeting time or an afternoon 4-6)
_____2. Check with Seller for approval on food, beverages, carpet, alcohol (ie; shoes, food types,etc.)
_____3. Check with seller about the use of the cd player
_____4. Include at the top of flyer the "invitation" specifics (ie; date,time raffle, MLS #, food...)
_____5. Place on MLS Tour 1 week in advance.
_____6. Fax flyer to all local real estate offices in your area
_____7. Forward or cut and paste the email invitation to other local agents and brokers.
_____8. Arrive ½ hour early for set up.
_____9. Place signs with balloons at all strategic locations (at least 3). They MUST say OPEN HOUSE
_____10.Please ask Sellers not to be there. It is difficult to encourage feedback from other agents while the homeowner is present!
_____11. Bring flyers and sign in sheet to open house along with "comments" cards
_____12. Provide food:
_____Luncheon or later: rolled sandwiches, fruit, cookies, bottled water.
_____Morning hours: muffins, fruit, yogurt, water bottles
_____ 13. Provide all paper products: plates, napkins, plasticware, cups.
_____ 14. Have the following all ready when others arrive: scented candle and music.
_____ 15. Provide raffle for agent drawing. (Optional)
_____ 16. Provide bowl for business cards as well as 3-tiered cake plates for food display and all decorations.
If you spend the money, make sure you send the energy to do it right. Your sellers will appreciate the feedback.
Another idea about getting more people to attend your broker open is to attend other brokerage open houses as often as possible. You do this and they will attend yours. You might even meet your next agent with whom you negotiate for your deal.
If you want to decide to discuss whether they are worth the effort you must first make sure you are putting in the first class effort. If you still get no one to attend a broker open, then you know you have really evaluated it and you can speak to your sellers about why you don't do the broker open houses.
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