Open House Don't Work

I've been in this business now since June, not exactly an oldtimer in real estate. I have a lot of experience, just not in real estate. I'm not sure my clients know the difference. I've been doing open houses now since I started. I've heard repeatedly that open houses don't work, they're a waste of time. I just keep nodding my head and going out once a week and putting up my A-boards. Mind you, I have not had a listing of my own since October but I have continued to do open houses. I'm picky about where I do them and for whom but I do them. Last fall when I had my first listing, I did a lot of open houses. Never mind I'd gotten a contingent offer the first week it was on the market. I kept working it for my client's sake and if I benefited, so be it. They were okay with that too. I met one couple with whom I struck up a relationship. I did some CMA work for them and they decided at that time not to put their home on the market. They had no fire in their belly, so to speak. I sent them a Halloween card since I remembered she really liked Halloween. I sent them a Christmas card. I sent them a newsletter in January. Two weeks ago, I received a call from them. They had gone to an open house and found a house they liked and wanted me to work with them on buying it. Can you believe it?? It works! Marketing works. We just signed around an offer on house for them. Their house goes on the MLS tomorrow. So I believe open houses make a difference. Having your picture on your business card? Now that's a different story. Next blog: Who needs the picture: you or your customers? Copyright 2008 Tall Cedar Publishing