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![](\"https:\/\/theclose.com\/wp-content\/themes\/theclose\/assets\/images\/icons\/cost.webp\")
<\/p>\n\t\t
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\n\t\t\tCost:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tFree<\/p>\nUsing a checklist to track open house necessities like home staging, posting on social media, and preparing handout materials keeps you on task so that you\u2019re not scrambling around at the last minute. Preparation also maximizes your lead potential since you\u2019ll feel more relaxed and confident interacting with guests instead of worrying if you forgot something.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\t\t
![](\"https:\/\/theclose.com\/wp-content\/themes\/theclose\/assets\/images\/icons\/task.webp\")
<\/p>\n\t\t
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tCreate an open house checklist of all the tasks you must do before, during, and after your open house. If you\u2019re short on time, check out The Close\u2019s open house checklist<\/a> \u2014 and there\u2019s a free downloadable for you to use.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\nRelated Articles<\/div>\n- \n
- \n <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n15 Open House Invitation Templates & Tips to Attract Buyers<\/div>\n
<\/a>\n <\/li>\n
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\n<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n9 Free Open House Sign-in Sheets to Try This Weekend<\/div>\n<\/a>\n <\/li>\n
- \n <\/p>\n
\n<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n16 Open House Flyer Templates that Get Leads (Free & Paid Examples)<\/div>\n<\/a>\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
2. Knock on doors to invite the neighbors.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tFree<\/p>\nDoor-knocking is a tried-and-true way to become a top agent in your area. The personal connection it offers is hard to beat. In fact, data from PropertyRadar<\/a> predicts that out of 100 doors knocked on, 20 of those typically lead to a meaningful conversation \u2014 and around 10% of those turn into quality leads.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tHaving a script ready can make this effort easier and faster for you. Check out our comprehensive article with door knocking tips and scripts<\/a>.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n3. Reach out to past clients to boost attendance.<\/h3>\n
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\t\t
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\n\t\t\tCost:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tFree<\/p>\nIf you\u2019ve been doing real estate right, you\u2019ll know how important it is to keep close to past clients. Besides potentially offering referrals, some may even be interested in moving into a new home \u2014 and given that they\u2019ve worked with you before, they\u2019ll be more inclined to attend your event.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
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\n\t\t\tTake a more personal approach. If they\u2019re near you, pop by. Otherwise, a simple call would go a long way, allowing you to reconnect, stay at the top of their mind, and possibly increase your open house\u2019s attendance.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n4. Work with other agents in your area.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tFree to $500, depending on what help you need<\/p>\nReal estate agents should see fellow agents as teammates, not competitors. You can team up with nearby agents for a joint open house day, promoting the event together and attracting more visitors, especially if the listings are similar. You can also work with other listing agents and hold their open houses for them or even request help from a junior agent to manage your attendees and make your open house a bit smoother on the event day.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\n\t\t\tUse these tips when working with other agents:
\n\t\t\t<\/span><\/p>\n- \n
- When advertising group open house days, a little creativity can go a long way. Hold a raffle that people can only enter if they visit every home on the list \u2014 or even try a scavenger hunt for the kids.<\/li>\n
- To make hosting an open house for a listing agent a benefit to them, agree to pay them a referral fee<\/a> for any client you pick up from the open house. Note that referral fees can vary by location and are entirely negotiable among the agents involved.<\/li>\n
- Working with junior agents will help you keep things running smoothly and ensure that attendees don\u2019t feel neglected. Find $50 or so to have someone cover the door for an hour or two \u2014 you won\u2019t regret it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
5. Prepare an open house script & practice delivering it.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
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\n\t\t\tFree<\/p>\nEven if you’re a pro at chatting with everyone at an open house, using real estate scripts will still steer your conversations toward getting contact details. So unless you’re hosting open houses just to make new pals and discuss gardening, practicing scripts will help you gather more leads. It’s as simple as that.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\t\t
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tIf you want some persuasive scripts to get you started, check out our best open house scripts<\/a>. Oh, and don\u2019t worry, we won\u2019t tell anyone you rehearsed them!\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nSpruce up your marketing & branding<\/h2>\n
Marketing and branding play a huge role in throwing a killer open house. From setting up a simple yard sign to creating eye-catching promo materials, your marketing game can seriously impact the number of people who show up and the success of your open house.<\/p>\n
6. Use an open house yard sign.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
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\n\t\t\t$50 to $200<\/p>\nIt might be predictable, but very few things can market your event as easily as having huge open house signs<\/a>. Not only does a yard sign clearly show your attendees who may be new to the area exactly which house is the one you\u2019re showing, but it also encourages walk-ins. Ensure that your sign is designed well, with clear typography and personal branding.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
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\n\t\t\tBefore posting your yard signs, check local regulations and HOA rules \u2014 you don\u2019t want to get fined unknowingly and ruin the vibe of your open house.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n7. Invest in high-quality open house marketing materials.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$40 to $150<\/p>\nInvesting in high-quality open house marketing materials is crucial for creating a positive and professional impression on potential buyers. Well-designed materials like flyers, brochures, and signage showcase the property effectively and reflect positively on the hosting agent or agency. High-quality materials convey attention to detail, help build trust, and leave a lasting impression for increased engagement and potential leads.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n![\"Real](\"http:\/\/av-forums.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/real-estate-marketing-company.jpg\")
Real estate marketing companies like Coffee and Contracts can help create branded materials. (Source: Coffee and Contracts)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n - \n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
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\n\t\t\tUse the help of a real estate marketing company with branding elements. Coffee and Contracts, for instance, offers thousands of social media templates designed specifically for agents. These include templates for Instagram Reels, carousels, and Broke Agent memes. As a subscriber, you\u2019ll access fresh content and new options every month. For more information, read our Coffee and Contracts review<\/a>.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n![\"\ud83d\udccc\"](\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/15.0.3\/72x72\/1f4cc.png\")
Pro Tip<\/h3>\nIf you want to keep your personal real estate branding<\/a> low-key, consider placing your real estate marketing materials<\/a> next to some snacks and drinks. Even having a small business card holder near some snacks could catch the eye of potential clients. When you’re meeting with clients, bring a branded folder for them to use. It is a subtle way to show that you’re organized and might help them stay organized, too.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
8. Hire a photographer to take pictures<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tFrom $50 an hour<\/p>\nIf you want your fellow real estate agents to like you, think about hiring a photographer to snap some pictures of them in action at your open house. Agents always love having more pics of themselves for social media, and these images can also come in handy for your next listing presentation<\/a>.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n![\"Professional-captured](\"http:\/\/av-forums.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/instagram-post.jpg\")
Professional-captured pictures of agents and guests (Source: Instagram)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n - \n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
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\n\t\t\tHiring a professional photographer is a good idea, as these pros can deliver great results without you figuring it out yourself. You may also consider hiring a drone photographer; it\u2019s fun and results in great photos you can share. It can also help potential clients see exactly what\u2019s in the area at a glance. However, if a professional is too costly, you can try doing it on your own \u2014 check out our real estate photography tips<\/a> for better results.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n9. Create a branded infographic with neighborhood info.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
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\n\t\t\tFree neighborhood overviews, $30 per detailed report<\/p>\nCreating branded real estate infographics<\/a> with all the neighborhood info gives potential buyers what they need to know about it. You can show off the local amenities, schools, and parks; you can even throw in some fun facts about the neighborhood. Plus, it adds credibility to market trends, property values, and community demographics.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tGrab a neighborhood profile for free, take four or five of the most interesting stats, and whip up an infographic in Canva. It\u2019s easier than you think, and your preparation will impress your clients.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nEnhance your open house with technology<\/h2>\n
Incorporating technology can take your open house to the next level, providing an engaging experience for agents and potential buyers. From virtual tours and interactive floor plans to smart home devices, using tech can really wow visitors and showcase properties in exciting and modern ways.<\/p>\n
10. Livestream an open house tour and share it on social media.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tFree<\/p>\nLivestreaming an open house tour allows potential buyers to see the property in real time, ask questions, and get a sense of the space. Sharing livestreams on social media, particularly Instagram and TikTok, can help reach a younger audience and make the property more visible on different platforms. This multi-platform approach can create more interest in the property and potentially lead to a quicker sale.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\n\t\t\tHere are some livestream open house tips:
\n\t\t\t<\/span><\/p>\n- \n
- Create and boost a social media post to advertise and boost your virtual open house<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- Send out an email or text blast announcing your virtual open house. Don\u2019t forget to contact other agents in your office or farm area. Even if they\u2019re too busy to attend in person, it might be the perfect home for one of their buyers.<\/li>\n
- Use short snippets of the video to market yourself on social media. Record your live stream and cut it into quick-hit videos for Instagram real estate Reels<\/a> or Stories and TikTok. You can use them as \u201cday in the life\u201d videos or show how your property marketing can fill a room with people!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
11. Create a VR experience.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
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\n\t\t\t$25 to $450<\/p>\nVirtual reality<\/a> (VR) is still super cutting-edge but catching on quickly. That\u2019s why adding it to your open house toolkit can show everyone that you\u2019re a tech-savvy agent. Give visitors a virtual tour of the property or a 3D mockup of potential renovations to help them see the space in a new way.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
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\n\t\t\tSnag a decent VR headset and preload it with interactive tours. Play around with it to ensure your visitors don’t run into issues.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n12. Virtually stage a room & allow attendees to play around with it.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
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\n\t\t\t$7 to $50, depending on approach<\/p>\nVirtual staging for open houses helps potential buyers envision the potential of a space by virtually furnishing and decorating it, making it more appealing. It also allows showcasing different design options and layouts to influence buyer decisions and presents the property in its best light, ultimately attracting more potential buyers.<\/p>\n
To make it even more fun and interactive, bring some devices on the day of the open house with the virtual staging applications preloaded. That way, attendees can play with the staging themselves and see how the home can look exactly the way they want it to.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n![\"Virtual](\"http:\/\/av-forums.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/virtual-staging-1.jpg\")
Virtual staging allows attendees to picture a room with their intended furniture, allowing them to see exactly how they can use the space.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n - \n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tOffer to email or, better yet, text them the pictures of the staging they created. Check out our guide to the best virtual staging software<\/a> if you need some options.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n13. Use QR codes creatively.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tFrom $50 an hour<\/p>\nQR codes have become popular, but many agents still don\u2019t know how to use them to get leads at their open houses. Here are easy ways to use QR codes at your next open house to get more leads:<\/p>\n
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- Set up an iPad sign-in station using a QR code creator at the front door \u2014 or, better yet, on your refreshments table.<\/li>\n
- Create a free QR code (using a site like QR Code Generator<\/a>). Print it onto your welcome sign and ensure the QR code links to your open house sign-in sheets<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- Create QR codes that link to slideshows of each room, virtually staged in different themes. Print out the codes on signs and post them in each room with a copy such as, \u201cSee this room staged as a home office!\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/av-forums.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/digital-sign-in.png\")
Curb Hero digital sign-in (Source: Curb Hero)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n - \n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
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\n\t\t\tFor a budget option, you can use Curb Hero \u2014 one of our top-recommended open house apps<\/a>. It is 100% free for agents and lets you create QR codes for touchless sign-in, postcards, signs, or anything else.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n14. Showcase smart and sustainable home features.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$50 to $500<\/p>\nWhile sustainable and smart home<\/a> features aren\u2019t new, potential home buyers are bound to have many questions about how they work and what it would mean to own one. Simple brochures can go the distance here, but a walkthrough of these features and showcasing the cost-effectiveness and environmental impact would really put this into perspective for your attendees.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
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\n\t\t\tIf you have the budget, consider partnering with local green energy experts or companies to co-host the event. They can provide objective insights or even discounts for attendees, further adding value to their attendance at your open house.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nPrioritize engagement & networking<\/h2>\n
Engagement and networking at an open house are crucial for building connections and generating leads. From interacting with visitors to facilitating meaningful conversations, effective engagement and networking strategies can significantly impact the success of your open house event.<\/p>\n
15. Boost your open house on hyperlocal social networks.<\/h3>\n
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\n\t\t\tCost:
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\n\t\t\tFree<\/p>\nAdvertising your open house on Facebook and Instagram can work well. However, at the end of the day, you\u2019re still paying to reach people who could be hundreds of miles away, so it’s great for brand awareness but lousy for actually getting people through the door. By posting on local Facebook Groups and Nextdoor, you will reach fewer people \u2014 but those people almost certainly live in the neighborhood.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n![\"Nextdoor](\"http:\/\/av-forums.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/targeting-options.png\")
Nextdoor powerful targeting options (Source: Nextdoor)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n - \n
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\n\t\t\tUse this tip:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tNextdoor and Facebook Groups have some of the most engaged local audiences online. If you offer trendy food and music or use the other tips above, you might get neighbors talking about your open house for free. For your posts to get more traction, check out our real estate social media marketing tips<\/a>.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n16. Partner with a local brand or shop.<\/h3>\n
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- Create QR codes that link to slideshows of each room, virtually staged in different themes. Print out the codes on signs and post them in each room with a copy such as, \u201cSee this room staged as a home office!\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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- Working with junior agents will help you keep things running smoothly and ensure that attendees don\u2019t feel neglected. Find $50 or so to have someone cover the door for an hour or two \u2014 you won\u2019t regret it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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