We asked author Jennifer Allan to answer questions based on her teaching and experience in the real estate industry. Jennifer is also a regular contributor to Realty Times and RE/MAX Times.
Question: "Everyone knows that open houses aren't likely to sell the house. Do I really have to do one?"
JA: I think so, sorry. For many reasons, not the least of which is that your seller expects you to and any attempt you make to talk him out of it will make you appear, um, lazy. Even if the seller agrees to your face that open houses are a waste of time, inside he's wondering if you're really as committed to getting his house sold as you say you are. Open houses are one of the most visible things we do as real estate agents and a very easy way to keep a seller happy. Conversely, refusing to do one is a very easy way to make a seller UNhappy!
Here are three other reasons to hold your listing open, at least once:
- You can gather feedback from the public to share with your seller,
- You'll become more familiar with your listing and might notice features (or challenges) you didn't see before,
- You might sell the house. You never know - but it's not as if you holding an open house will HURT your chances of getting it sold!
So, yeah, I think you oughta do it. What's the worst thing that could happen?
Jennifer will be presenting "Selling to your Sphere of Influence" next week at the CAR Convention. Click here for information.
Guest Author Jennifer Allan has authored five books and multiple courses designed to teach agents her Sell with Soul philosophy that centers on four interrelated principles: Respect, Competence, Confidence and Enthusiasm. The latest release of her book Sell with Soul is available in the VanEd bookstore. You can also visit her online at www.sellwithsoul.com.