When you think of buying or selling a home, one term comes up again and again: Open House. But what exactly is an open house? How does it benefit buyers, sellers, and agents alike? At ERA Brokers, Colonial, and Donahoe, we believe an informed client is an empowered one. So here’s a complete guide to everything you need to know about open houses, and why they still matter in today’s real estate market.
What is an open house?
An open house is a scheduled period when a home is open for viewing by potential buyers—no appointment necessary. Hosted by a real estate professional, open houses offer a relaxed and informal environment where visitors can tour the property at their own pace, ask questions, and get a feel for the space without the pressure of a one-on-one showing.
Open houses typically happen on weekends, especially Sundays, when most people have time to explore. They’re often advertised online, via social media, through real estate platforms like MLS, and with eye-catching yard signs.
Why Open Houses matter for sellers.
1. Exposure
An open house puts your home in front of more eyes, faster. People who might not schedule a private tour still stop by, giving your listing more traction.
2. Creating Buzz
Open houses create a sense of urgency. When buyers see others showing interest in your home, it can spark competition and lead to faster, stronger offers.
3. Immediate Feedback
Your agent can gather valuable input from attendees, helping you understand what potential buyers like, or don’t like, so you can make adjustments if needed.
4. Convenience
Instead of cleaning and vacating your home for multiple one-off showings, an open house condenses the foot traffic into one manageable event.
Why Open Houses are helpful for buyers.
1. Low-Pressure Exploration.
Whether you’re casually browsing or seriously searching, open houses allow you to walk through homes without the commitment of a private showing.
2. Real-Time Comparison.
If you’re visiting multiple open houses in a day, you can quickly compare layouts, finishes, and neighborhoods.
3. Ask Questions on the Spot.
Agents are on-site to answer your questions about the home, the neighborhood, financing, or the market in general—so bring your curiosity!
4. Get a Feel for the Market.
Open houses are a great way to understand what’s available in your price range, how homes are presented, and what features stand out.
Tips for hosting or attending an open house.
For Sellers:
Before hosting an open house, it’s important to declutter and depersonalize your space so potential buyers can envision themselves living there. First impressions matter, so be sure to highlight your home’s curb appeal; it sets the tone before anyone even walks through the door. Secure any valuables to give yourself peace of mind during showings. Most importantly, trust your agent’s advice on timing, presentation, and setup; they know how to position your home for the best results.
For Buyers:
When attending an open house, start by signing in. Agents often have helpful information that isn’t listed online. Be upfront about your level of interest; it helps agents tailor their follow-up and avoids unnecessary pressure. Take notes and photos so you can compare homes later. And don’t hesitate to ask questions. This is your opportunity to get a feel for the property beyond what’s visible.
Ready to open the door to your next chapter?
In an increasingly digital world, open houses still offer something screens can’t: a tangible, personal connection to a home. Whether you’re selling your current place or hunting for the next one, an open house provides a uniquely valuable experience.
When you’re ready to make your move, trust the experts at ERA Brokers, ERA Colonial, and ERA Donahoe to guide you home, starting with the perfect open house.
About Us: At ERA Brokers | Colonial | Donahoe we are a brokerage infused with proprietary real estate technology. As part of Brokers Holdings, our organization operates commercial and residential brokerages in Arizona, California, Texas, Nevada, and Utah. With over 800 agents and staff, we collectively close over 5,500 transactions worth more than $2 billion in value annually. In addition, we manage nearly 2,500 property management units worth nearly $1 Billion in value for our clients. Founded in 1982, the firm has been helping clients for more than 40 years.