Secrets for a Successful Open House
On any given weekend, there are hundreds of open houses in and around Calgary and perhaps more than a few right in your own neighbourhood. If you are a seller looking to gain an edge over the competition, pay close attention to my tips for organizing a successful open house. You can hire professionals to do all the work if you choose, but the good news is, you don’t have too. You can do most of the work yourself, just remember that preparation is the key!
Clean and Declutter – Many people think this one goes without saying, but its importance cannot be stressed enough. Buyers need to see the bones of your house and envision themselves happily living there. They cannot do either if they are distracted by dirt, clutter, unpleasant odours and blocked hallways. Take the time to conduct a thorough cleaning of the entire home or hire a professional if you do not have the time to do it yourself. The floor to ceiling cleaning should include the interior, exterior, basement space (whether it is finished or not) and all storage spaces. Kitchens and bathrooms require special attention. Invest in a new set of towels if yours are faded and frayed. Remove the sources of unpleasant odours or try to neutralize them.
Clean and Declutter – Many people think this one goes without saying, but its importance cannot be stressed enough. Buyers need to see the bones of your house and envision themselves happily living there. They cannot do either if they are distracted by dirt, clutter, unpleasant odours and blocked hallways. Take the time to conduct a thorough cleaning of the entire home or hire a professional if you do not have the time to do it yourself. The floor to ceiling cleaning should include the interior, exterior, basement space (whether it is finished or not) and all storage spaces. Kitchens and bathrooms require special attention. Invest in a new set of towels if yours are faded and frayed. Remove the sources of unpleasant odours or try to neutralize them.
The decluttering process may seem excessive, but the results will be worth the time and energy spent. Most homeowners who take the time to declutter are amazed at how much more attractive and comfortable their home looks and feels immediately. A good rule of thumb is to remove half the contents in closets, garages and storage spaces so buyers can envision their own belongings fitting, with room to grow. Keep pathways open to permit unencumbered access from one room to another. Store away personal items, knickknacks and all but a few family photos.
Repair and Replace - The last thing you want at an open house is a loose doorknob falling off in someone’s hand or a leaky faucet in the bathroom. All small repairs and replacements should be taken care of in advance of the open house. You want your pride in ownership to shine through in every corner of the home.
Set the Stage – Professional home staging is always an option and your Realtor can connect you with reliable home stagers if that is your choice. There are, however, many things you can do on your own to set the stage for a successful open house. Begin by selecting a few focal points, such as the front entrance, a fireplace mantel or a kitchen island and then give those areas a little extra effort and attention in preparing for the open house. You will be amazed at how a fresh coat of brightly colored paint on the front door coupled with artfully arranged flowerpots and plants can transform a front entrance. Create a warm and welcoming atmosphere with lots of natural light and a few arrangements of fresh flowers at your focal points.
If all this seems a bit overwhelming – never fear! An experienced Realtor can calm your nerves, walk you through the preparation and share their expertise and tips for making your open house a success.
Are you buying or selling a home in Calgary? Do you want an agent who has the enthusiasm and energy to get things done, with your best interests in mind at all times? Contact me at 403-617-8758, kelmacdonald@gmail.com or www.kellymacdonald.ca and let's make good things happen!
Are you buying or selling a home in Calgary? Do you want an agent who has the enthusiasm and energy to get things done, with your best interests in mind at all times? Contact me at 403-617-8758, kelmacdonald@gmail.com or www.kellymacdonald.ca and let's make good things happen!
About Kelly Macdonald
Kelly Macdonald is a Realtor® with The Real Estate Company in Calgary, where she has been living (and loving it!) since she was 10. Kelly offers her clients a unique mix of youthful vigor, creativity and technical and design savvy on one hand, and professionalism and transactional expertise from her business degree and strong administrative background on the other. Kelly is also a devoted wife and mother of two, with whom she finds time from her busy schedule to play scrabble and walk by the beautiful lake of their home in Southeast Calgary.
THIS ENTRY WAS POSTED ON October 18th, 2015 BY Kelly L. Macdonald | POSTED IN General
