Who's got the scoop on Open Houses

Ease back, and chill. Welcome them, walk them back for a flyer and to sign in. Ask if they want a tour or want to see it themselves. (if property is secure)  tell them you are the agent for the property, if you are. Have a seller disclosure on hand, which answers all the ?'s about systems. Tell them you are there to help if needed. Watch your body language. Be yourself. before they lv, ask if they have any interest in the property. If they are running out the door, there was nothing you can do anyway. If not, have your laptop there and tell them you can find other property.  Make it your office for the day.

One thing you might try is to explain to the lookers that the seller has requested all visitors sign in as a security measure. This can be said in a nice enough way that you don't come across as questioning the visitor's integrity. You might try asking them if they themselves are homeowner or renters, then say "As I'm sure you yourself would want to have some idea of who came into your home".

Might help but, just as so many initial contacts we have now with prospective buyers, most are starting to wrap themselves in the anonymity of the 'net and don't want to give us an "in".

Lori,  I'm far from an expert but here goes:

I do between 5 - 10 open houses per week.  I keep it very informal.  Start with a 30 second  " elevator " pitch about why this is worth owning.  I never walk thru with them !  As they are walking around I ask a few qualifying questions: what are you looking for, etc.  I am seated with a syack of registration cards ( filled out ) next to me.  I ask for their name and start writing.  Never asking for anything but names and emails.  Then explain that the email list is never shared with anyone but that I send a " Steals & Deals " email to my customers ( something of value ? ).  Almost all are willing to give me the name/email under those circumstances.  Hope this helps !