You know...it's not everyday that everyone gets to sell their home. I know that's an obvious truth, however, the experience when it does happen can be surprising at the very least...like jumping to a cold pool of water. Maybe it is the conditioning of past experiences and present pressure that teaches us that an open house is a vital necessity to a successful sale. We think that if we don't have an open house we'll miss out on an opportunity to sell to potential purchasers... Not so. Although open houses attract more than 40% of all home buyers, only less than five percent purchase as a result of open houses. Open houses rarely sell houses. However, folks who do choose to have open houses as a part of marketing should expect honest feedback and become more security conscious.
Some feedback have teeth...
Why do we need feedback from home buyers or their agents? Some may feel a second opinion reassures us and quiets our fear of the unknown...but are they reeeally necessary? Sales are all about the consumers, it is a way to get an immediate response from what consumers and their agents are looking for. A buyer's agent may view things differently from that of a listing agent (the agent who represents the seller), so getting feedback is a way to get a different perspective. It's a way to measure the pulse of the market. However, I am surprised when I hear of sellers who are offended by feedback. If you plan to sell your house, understandably sometimes feedback isn't always pleasant but they are a good sounding board...especially if you have doubts.
The presence of a real estate broker should ward off thieves...
Unfortunately, it's misleading to assume the presence of anyone person can ward off potential theft or that the person present is an expert of profiling incoming visitors.
Open Houses are great for buyers who maybe just "checking" out properties or just checking out what they want. Hey, lets not get paranoid...it's only an interjection of common sense to keep you careful. When you have your house opened to the public, keep your prescription drugs, your valuables or expensive wares out of sight, locked away, or removed.
In the end, selling should be a positive and safe experience, do try to keep it light and fun and remember, open houses aren't absolutely necessary but when you do have them, keep your valuables away and out of sight.
