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Open For Inspection
Open for inspection days are a great way of generating interest in residential property. The best time to have your open house is on a Saturday afternoon when most buyers are out and about inspecting houses. As a DIY seller, you will need to make yourself available for appointments at other times as well. That is the reason why inspections work so well in that they cut down the number of appointments you will have to make at other times.
To make sure people attend, you will need to run advertisements in the real estate section of the local newspapers, post "Open for Inspection" signs in the front yard and at the closest intersection or main road you will need to place directional signage.
Open house tips
Be certain to have plenty of flyers ready and hand them out as people come to the door.
- Let people know that you are available to answer any questions, but don't hassle them. Leave them alone to look at the house.
- Don't haggle. Tell people you will only accept written offers from qualified buyers.
- Make a fresh pot of coffee before anyone arrives to create a warm homely atmosphere. Be friendly to your guests and offer them coffee, tea, biscuits or snacks.
Safety
Open houses are not for everyone. If you do decide to have an open house there are a few safety issues you should consider. Letting a group of strangers into your house at any time is a risk. While most visitors will be honest people, there is a chance that your open house will attract thieves or vandals.
- Make sure that you are never alone. Alert a friend or family member to the times you plan to have your open house. Arrange a time to call so that they know everything went smoothly.
- Remove all your valuables. Place them in a safety deposit box, or give them to a friend or relative for safekeeping. Watch your visitors at all times and keep an eye out for any suspicious behaviour.
- Take down names and contact details. It may be a little awkward, but it is also a good idea to ask for ID.
- Make specific times for your open house. Don't let anyone into your house before or after these times. If you have drop-ins outside of these times, ask them to come back later and make an appointment.
- Set a limit to the number of people you will allow inside the house at any one time.
- Never tell strangers when you will be out, and never give out your home phone number. Use your mobile number when dealing with buyers and writing advertisements
- Keep all your blinds and windows open so that neighbours and people from the street can see into the house.
- Put safety first. If you feel uncomfortable about someone, don't let them in. If you feel you are in danger, leave the house and call the police.
Remember to be prepared, and your open house should run smoothly. It may seem like a lot of hassle, but running an open house can significantly increase your chances of selling. Many sales are made as a direct result of running an open house.
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T E S T I M O N I A L S
"Thank you for making the sale of father's estate properties so easy at such a difficult time."
"What can we say - an absolutely fantastic result. You handled all situations professionally, with good humour and a totally positive attitude."
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