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The Ultimate Open House Checklist for Real Estate Agents

Written by UPrinting - Updated on June 12, 2025

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Last updated on June 12th, 2025 at 01:49 am





First impressions sell homes. Are you ready to make yours
unforgettable? Open houses remain a cornerstone of real estate
marketing, offering prospective buyers a chance to experience
properties firsthand. However, the difference between a forgettable
walkthrough and a successful event often boils down to preparation.
This ultimate open house checklist will ensure your next event is
both seamless and impactful.

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Why Open Houses Matter

  1. In a study made by
    Zillow, 72% of sellers in urban areas host open houses as part of their
    marketing strategy. Open houses provide sellers with an opportunity
    to showcase their property to a wider audience, including serious
    buyers and curious neighbors. This strategy also helps create buzz
    and urgency around the listing.
  2. Only 2% of homes sell directly from open houses, but these real
    estate events remain invaluable for showcasing properties and
    networking, according to Gary Kent. While the direct sale rate is
    low, the connections and exposure gained through open houses can
    lead to indirect sales and referrals. Agents often use these events
    to establish relationships with potential future clients.
  3. In an article by
    U.S. News, they found that 96% of buyers begin their home search online, yet
    open houses still play a critical role in building trust and
    relationships. Online listings can attract interest, but seeing a
    home in person allows buyers to better envision living there. Open
    houses also offer a chance for agents to answer questions and
    address concerns in real time.


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Pre-Event Preparation


A successful open house begins long before the doors open. Ensure you
have the right materials and setup for a polished presentation.








 

Additional Tips:



 


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During the Event


With preparation complete, it’s time to create a welcoming and
engaging atmosphere.

Must-Have Materials:




 

Additional Tips:



 


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Post-Event Follow-Up


The event may be over, but the real work begins here. Effective
follow-ups ensure your open house leads don’t go cold.

Must-Have Materials:



 

Additional Tips:



 


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Downloadable Open House Checklist

Planning an open house doesn’t have to be overwhelming. To streamline
your efforts, download our free PDF checklist today and ensure no
detail is overlooked.

Download Your Open House Checklist and Plan the Perfect Event!

A well-planned open house can make all the difference in showcasing a
property’s potential. By following this ultimate checklist, real
estate agents can ensure their events are both professional and
memorable. Remember, the key to success lies in preparation,
engagement, and effective follow-up—turning open house visitors into
future clients.



Download the Checklist [PDF]

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I attract more visitors to an open house?

A: Successful open houses require a strong marketing plan. Posting
the event on the MLS, major real estate websites, and social media
can boost visibility. Using email marketing, local advertisements,
and personal invitations to neighbors or past leads can also drive
attendance.

Q: When is the best time to host an open house?

A: Weekend afternoons, particularly Sundays, tend to attract the
most visitors. The best timing also depends on the local market,
competition, and weather conditions. Hosting an open house at a
unique time—such as a twilight showing on a weekday—may work well
in certain neighborhoods.

Q: How do I handle buyers who show strong interest in the home?

A: For serious buyers, providing immediate information about the
property, financing options, and next steps is crucial. If they
are unrepresented, agents must follow local regulations regarding
representation disclosure. If they are working with an agent, they
should be encouraged to coordinate an offer with their
representative.

Q: How can an agent ensure safety during an open house?

A: Safety precautions include having another agent or assistant
present, keeping valuables and personal belongings secure, and
requiring visitors to sign in before entering. Agents should also
be aware of exit points and avoid being alone in isolated areas of
the home.

Q: How does an agent handle a low turnout at an open house?

A: If attendance is low, analyzing the marketing approach, timing,
and competition is key. Expanding promotional efforts, using
social media ads, or scheduling another open house at a different
time can help increase exposure.

Q: What are the biggest mistakes agents make with open houses?

A: Common mistakes include poor marketing, lack of preparation,
and failing to engage visitors. Some agents treat open houses as
passive events rather than active lead-generation opportunities.
Not following up with attendees is another major missed
opportunity.

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