An Open House is a good way to show off your property to potential buyers who prefer a casual first look as opposed to a scheduled, private showing. An Open House is generally scheduled shortly after a property is listed for sale. 

Generally it's best if you, your family and your four-legged pets leave the house during the hours it will be open for public viewing. Your Realtor will greet buyers, provide basic information about the property and the neighborhood, point out special features, answer questions and keep a watchful eye on your home. For the most part, your presence will not enhance the Open House experience and it may detract from it. Prospective buyers are often uncomfortable in the presence of the owners.  

Talk to your real estate professional about any documents, paperwork or photographs that should be on display during the Open House. Discuss who will prepare fact sheets to distribute to buyers and what information should be included. You might consider having professionally lettered cards prepared to place throughout your house to point out advantages and features the buyer might otherwise miss. You could place a card on the kitchen countertop announcing the new dishwasher, the pull out cutting board, the Lazy Susan in the corner cabinet or anything that is not easily visible. 

If you have any areas in your home that could potentially be a hazard, get them fixed. An unexpected step up or down could be marked with a sign. Be sure your sidewalk and stairs are smooth and safe.

In addition to your home being in tip-top shape and sparkling clean, you can add a few special touches that will impress prospective buyers. Consider a vase of fresh flowers in the entry hall, dining room or breakfast table. If the outdoor temperature permits, set a dish of simmering potpourri in the oven. Use an oven-safe dish and set the temperature to “low.” You might also bake a quick batch of sugar cookies from prepared, refrigerated dough that you buy at the grocery. Pop the cookies into the oven about a half-hour before you leave the house. Just before the cookies are done baking, turn off the oven and crack the oven door. Put a plate of cookies on the kitchen counter for a friendly touch. You can also do the same with bread-dough you purchase in the frozen food case.  

A week or so before the Open House, prepare a checklist to avoid last minute confusion. Assign tasks to various family members to lessen your workload and to allow everyone to participate in making your home look, feel and smell it's very best. Make sure that everyone understands his or her role and consider a rehearsal to put everyone at ease. If possible, make plans for a pleasant family outing to the park or the movies as a reward for a job well done.

Copyright 2005 PropertySource Network