Open House Mistakes Homeowners Make

When homeowners decide to sell their own house, without enlisting the help of a real estate professional, they often hold open houses to attract potential buyers. Most people have attended an open house at least once, and it looks pretty easy. But there are some common open house mistakes homeowners may want to avoid.

Under normal, non-open house conditions, most of us would never consider leaving our front door unlocked, with a note on the door inviting any stranger to enter. But, that is what we do when we hold an open house.

It's never advisable for just one person to host an open house alone. There is safety in numbers, yet even then there is no guarantee there will be no trouble. It's a good idea to always have a third party at a separate location, phone you on a regular basis, to make sure there are no problems. You might even consider a code word to use, in case you are unable to speak freely when the checkup call comes in. If you have one, keep your cell phone on your person at all times.

Most savvy homeowners know to put valuables, such as jewelry, out of the reach when preparing the home for viewing. Yet, what about the prescription drugs in your medicine cabinet? Who would think someone would want grandpa's blood pressure medicine, or mom's thyroid pills. Unfortunately, there is a troubling trend with young people experimenting with prescription drugs. Even if the drugs are old, and you planned to throw them out anyway, don't leave them where someone could find them. You wouldn't want some foolish young person getting sick, or worse.

Real estate agents often offer alcoholic beverages at their open houses, and some homeowners are tempted to follow suit. Yet, is it a wise practice for either group? Consider the liability, should someone leaving your open house get into a car accident. Will you feel comfortable asking for identification when a visitor to your open house looks legally old enough to drink, yet maybe not? You are creating a potentially uncomfortable situation.

Food choices served at an open house can also be a later regret. When planning the menu, ask yourself if you will be troubled if the food or beverage you are serving will end up on your furniture or carpet.

In an attempt to attract more visitors to their open house, some people offer a raffle or prizes to those who visit the property, and include the information with their open house advertisement placed in the local newspaper or shopping guide. This will bring in lots of people, yet not necessarily potential home buyers. Do you really want a large number of people tromping through your house, who are only interested in a raffle?

Instead of a raffle, you might have better results mailing personal invitations to your neighbors. Often neighbors have friends or family who are considering moving into the neighborhood.

When you hold your open house, the most important thing is to play it safe!