How to Prepare for an Open House (Like a Boss)

The spring market is heating up, and if you’re planning to sell your home, hosting a successful open house can be a great way to attract buyers. But simply putting up a sign and unlocking the door won’t cut it—proper preparation is key! Whether you’re working with an agent (hopefully me! πŸ˜‰) or going solo, here’s what you need to do to make a lasting impression on potential buyers.

1. Boost Your Curb Appeal

First impressions matter! Many buyers will drive by before stepping inside, so make sure your home’s exterior is inviting:

  • Mow the lawn and trim bushes
  • Power wash walkways and clean the front door
  • Add fresh flowers or a welcoming doormat
  • Ensure house numbers are visible and in good shape

2. Declutter and Depersonalize

Buyers want to envision themselves living in the space. Remove personal items like family photos, excess dΓ©cor, and anything that makes rooms feel cramped. A clean, minimalist look helps highlight the home’s best features.

3. Deep Clean Everything

A spotless home suggests a well-maintained property. Pay special attention to:

  • Bathrooms πŸ›— Scrub tiles, polish mirrors, and ensure fresh towels are out
  • Kitchen 🍽️ — Wipe down appliances, clear countertops, and hide trash bins
  • Windows πŸͺŸ— Clean inside and out to maximize natural light

4. Set the Stage

Consider light staging to make the home feel inviting:

  • Use neutral colors and soft textures
  • Add fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit in the kitchen
  • Arrange furniture to create an open, spacious feel
  • Open curtains and turn on lights for a bright, welcoming atmosphere

5. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

A warm, inviting home helps buyers feel comfortable. You can:

  • Play soft background music 🎢 
  • Light a subtly scented candle (nothing too strong)! πŸ•―️ 
  • Air out the home beforehand for a fresh smell πŸ’¨ 

6. Have Key Documents Ready

Buyers may have questions about your home. Be prepared with:

  • Recent utility bills πŸ“‘ 
  • Property tax info πŸ“œ 
  • Any warranties for appliances, HVAC, or roof work 🏠 
Also, if we just renovated or updated your home, I'll provide a list of everything potential buyer's will get excited about!

7. Step Out During the Showing

It’s best for sellers to leave during an open house. Buyers feel more at ease when they can explore freely and discuss openly with their agent. Trust your realtor to handle the showings!


Ready to Buy or Sell? Let’s Talk!

The winter market is acting more like a spring market this year - things are moving fast! Whether you're prepping your home for sale or looking for a competitive edge as a buyer, I’m here to help. Let’s schedule a quick consultation to map out your next steps.

πŸ“© Click here to book a consultation or reach out directly using this link.

Have questions about the process? Drop them in the comments or send me a message—I’d love to chat!