This week, I received a message from a reader who is preparing to sell their home asking a question that comes up often: Do open houses actually help sell a home, or are they mostly just for curious neighbors and unqualified buyers?
It is a great question and one that does not have a simple yes or no answer. The truth is that open houses are not the magic solution they once seemed to be. However, when done correctly, they can still play a role in an overall strategy to attract attention and activity. I have helped hundreds of sellers host open houses over the past 25 years. And here is the honest truth. I have only sold one home directly at an open house.
What Sellers Need to Know About Open Houses
That is not to say open houses have no value. They can generate traffic, create momentum, and increase visibility. In many markets, buyers are busy and like the ability to walk through a home without scheduling a private showing. If your home is not open on the weekend, it may be missed by potential buyers who are out touring.
An open house can offer early exposure to your listing and send a signal to the market that your home is ready to be sold. When buyers see other people walking through the home, it can add a sense of urgency. Even if the open house does not result in an immediate offer, it can lead to future showings and increased online interest.
Open Houses Are Not a Quick Fix: Realistic Expectations for Sellers
Still, many sellers assume an open house will bring in serious buyers who will write an offer on the spot. That is rarely the case. As I mentioned above, in my entire career, only one sale has come directly from an open house. The majority of serious buyers schedule private showings, often through their buyer’s agent, after researching listings online.
Open houses are not without their risks. One of the biggest concerns I share with clients is the lack of control over who walks through the door. While many visitors are genuine buyers, others may simply be curious or have bad intentions. Unfortunately, theft does happen. Items like small electronics, prescription medications, jewelry, and personal information can be easy targets if left out. This is why I always advise sellers to secure valuables, remove anything irreplaceable, and consider limiting access to certain rooms. The open format means your home is exposed to a broader audience, and that exposure comes with tradeoffs.
Understanding Who Attends Open Houses: Who’s Really Interested?
Yes, some open house visitors are neighbors. Some are just curious. And some are buyers who are still early in their decision-making process. But that does not mean they are not worth reaching. Buyers move at their own pace. I have seen visitors who seemed hesitant during the open house return days later with serious interest.
Some buyers also prefer open houses because they feel more comfortable browsing without the pressure of a one-on-one tour. In recent buyer feedback, several people shared that open houses helped them understand what they liked and disliked. That kind of exposure is valuable, even if it does not lead to a same-day offer.
What Makes an Open House Effective? Key Tips for Sellers
A successful open house is never just about unlocking the front door. It starts with high-quality photos, compelling marketing, and strong promotion in the days leading up to the event. Your agent should have a plan to share the event on social media, real estate platforms, and through agent networks. The home should be clean, well-staged, and ready to show at its best.
If your agent discourages open houses without a clear explanation, ask why. Depending on your location and the state of the market, an open house may be one of several tools that bring attention to your listing. It should not be the only strategy, but it does not need to be ignored either.
Final Thoughts: Open Houses as Part of a Broader Strategy
Open houses are not the magic answer to selling a home, but they can be a helpful part of a broader plan. They give your home exposure, allow buyers to explore freely, and create market activity. However, do not expect a sale to happen at the open house itself. Use it as a way to add energy to your launch or re-engage interest after a price change.
Want to Know if Open Houses Work in Your Area?
The impact of open houses can vary widely depending on your local market. If you are thinking about selling and want to know whether an open house makes sense for your specific situation, I can connect you with a trusted, experienced real estate agent in your area. They can walk you through the current market dynamics and help you decide if an open house is the right move.
Reach out today and I will personally introduce you to someone who understands your market and can help you sell with confidence.
