I decided it was time for me to visit some Open Houses in my neighborhood. I was going to play the role of the buyer. How hard would that be?
I checked the local MLS and found what was open, printed it off and got in the car! I knew, or thought I knew, where they were! I drove and drove! Mind you, I am only covering an area of about 5 miles. How hard could this be to find an open house? Signs! there must be signs!
Well, it was very windy that Sunday and some of the signs must have blown down. One home had the signs, but not one in front.... I looked at my sheet thinking I had the wrong date or time and nope! Not a car, or note on the door.... not open!
Driving to the next I did find one that was not listed on the MLS... that couldn't be, but ok! I was pleasantly surprised at the response from some of the agents. Some welcomed and others...not so much! Gosh I am only doing my job! Tour homes for my buyers and sellers to see what is on the market.
Some homes had nice handouts and others just had the MLS sheets. One had homemade brownies! YUM! and Thank YOU! One I wasn't sure who was the agent.
A couple of the homes I wanted to see were not open and I am going to hit the trail again maybe this Sunday. I really was a different experience for me that I can pass on to would be buyers and sellers to make their home buying /selling a little eaiser!
I really felt a little like having a melt down! The buyers out there must be wondering what agents are thinking sometimes. No wonder they don't want to talk to us during an open house! I really feel that after spending some time doing this I can make my sellers homes shine during an OPEN HOUSE!
1) Give proper directions
2) Have plenty of handouts with lots of detail
3) Stay Open during your posted hours
4) At least acknowledge the people entering
5) Make sure your signs are going to withstand the weather
6) Have some treats: bottled water, cookies, candy, MINTS! lol
7) Have a toy tub for the kids! Parents will look longer if they feel the kids aren't being a pest.
8) Welcome them when they enter
9) Thank them when they leave
10) Turn the lights on!
Copyright 2008 Charlene Hammontree @ U.S. Home & Realty
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