Open houses are a debatable topic with real estate agents. Some say they aren’t necessary in the age of the internet when options can be narrowed online. Others argue that closing yourself off will limit the number of possible buyers.
What everybody agrees on is that hosting a successful open house is an art that requires some tricks to pull off. Here are five to try out.
Choose Wise Hours
Find out the most popular hours for open houses in the neighborhood and coordinate around those times. If most open houses end at 4 p.m. then consider ending an hour later at 5 p.m.
This extra hour will bring in house hunters who went the entire day without finding something they wanted as well as people who rushed through every other open house so they could see them all. If there are no other open houses then there’s no reason to rush.
Embrace Technology
Most buyers, especially young ones, are starting their home search online. New apps and websites are launching every day and staying up to date on the newest real estate tech hangouts will allow a seller to hit the popular sites as well as advertise to tech-savvy buyers who are embracing new hotspots.
Change Up The Signs
Not only should there be a lot of signage, but the signs should be tailored towards different demographics. Wealthier areas should be signed with tasteful and professional signs while some cute, handwritten signs will bring in the bargain hunters who are looking for something affordable.
De-Personalize Everything
Every buyer needs to be able to see him or herself living in the home. Anything controversial or personal will remind them of the people living there now and get in the way of their imagination running wild. Clean out anything political, controversial or family related before opening the doors.
Learn From The Criticism
An unsuccessful open house is an opportunity to remain open minded and discover exactly what pushed away a day’s worth of potential buyers. Any criticism or feedback should be used to make changes before the next open house so that the same mistakes aren’t repeated on a new group.
What works for one region may not work for another and only a real estate professional with experience in the area will know what tips have proven successful in your neighborhood.  Give me a call for tips that will work for you – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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5324 E Hillery Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,179,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,308
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6733483
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Newly renovated with high end contemporary design finishes located in the highly desirable 85254 zip code. Split floor plan with over-sized Owner's Suite. Large kitchen and bar area with custom cabinetry and quartz counters and backsplashes. Custom built glass wine cellar and racking. Fully covered patio. Viking appliances. Large back yard. Dual pane energy saving windows / doors, smart thermostat with a North/South exposure. Beautiful marble bathroom featuring a double vanity, large soaking tub, and double walk-in shower. Automatic irrigation for grass and plants in back yard. The home is move-in ready and has been well taken care of by Owners. Please contact with any questions.
3730 E Cat Balue Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85050
$1,179,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,552
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768541
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream family home! The courtyard entry adds a touch of elegance, while the custom pool and spa create a resort-like atmosphere. The en suite bedroom on the main floor offers convenience, and the spiral staircase leading to the den and additional bedrooms adds character.The gourmet kitchen with double gas ovens is a chef's delight, and the gas fireplace adds warmth and charm. Plus, being close to excellent schools and shopping makes it even more appealing. This beautiful home is the ideal space for creating lasting memories with loved ones!
32875 N 73rd Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,175,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,109
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757401
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your chance to own a gem with views of Boulder Mntn is finally here! Over 300k in upgrades to this 3 bedroom 3 bath split plan. Soaring 12' ceilings, Custom kitchen w/ Thermador refrigerator/ Freezer columns, built in Thermador coffee maker, Double oven, 220 Conv/Micro oven, Dual dishwashers, 15' waterfall island with added storage, custom upper lighted display cabinets, beautiful upgraded lighting, linear F/P. Laundry with additional cabinets, Expansive patio slider wall to take in the gorgeous mountain view! Custom closets throughout, designer paint, built in Vacuum, custom made draperies w/ shades, all grout color sealed, R/O system, spectacular epoxied garage floor. Close to all amenities yet quiet and private. Next to Summit at Scottsdale Shopping Center & walking trail
1101 E Dolores Road
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$1,175,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,038
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6720678
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Presenting this Full Spec Luxury home by NEXTGEN Builders, to be built with 4 bedrooms, plus an office/den, and 3.5 baths. This home features an RV Garage and sits on a spacious lot without HOA constraints. Single entry doors open into a stunning great room with 12-foot soaring ceilings, a large island kitchen featuring quartz countertops, GE Profile appliances, Napa fawn cabinets in the island, Napa onyx cabinets elsewhere, and a 16x8 foot sliding glass door. Each bedroom boasts a walk-in closet, while the owner's suite features a lg. walk-in shower, standalone tub, and dual vanities. 8-foot doors throughout. Constructed for durability and energy efficiency, it includes 2x6 exterior framing, spray foam insulation, and a post-tension slab foundation. Paved Road. Photos are of a model.
14103 S 44th Avenue
Laveen, AZ 85339
$1,175,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,975
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6710653
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This is desert living with amazing mountain views, privacy, seclusion, peace and quiet! This includes additional 1+ acre lot south (APN: 300-04-036) and north (APN: 300-04-034) of the house. Basement home with guest house/shop offers flexibility for various living/working arrangements! Perfect for horses, hobby enthusiast, multi gen living, basement offers a separate living level along with the detached building for extended family or vacation rental. Ideal for small business 1200sf unit located across wash with bridge, keeps home private and work separate! Think of the savings not having to pay for an additional work space or more than one home! NO HOA and centrally located close to freeway and access to the entire valley! Set at the base of the mountain/preserve, perfect quiet, peaceful setting to enjoy sunsets and natural desert life! This multifunctional property is for those nature lovers and those not wanting cookie cutter living. Chef Kitchen. Modernized interior. Located in the county with lower property taxes.
20132 W Medlock Drive
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$1,175,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,560
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742933
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover beauty and comfort in this stunning equine estate, perfectly situated on 2.5 serene acres in the heart of Beautiful AZ Estates. This amazing residence boasts 5 spacious bedrooms and 3 well-appointed bathrooms, designed for both relaxation and functionality. Step into an expansive open floor plan where the large living spaces are highlighted by vaulted ceilings and beautiful tile floors. The oversized kitchen features gorgeous granite countertops, a walk-in pantry, and seamlessly flows into the family room, ideal for entertaining and family gatherings. The master suite offers a private seating area and an impressive walk-in closet, while each additional bedroom ensures ample space and comfort. The oversized laundry room, cleverly designed to double as a bathroom, adds to the home's versatility and convenience. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and sunsets from virtually every room, with large windows that frame the picturesque landscape. Outside, the property is a true retreat. The well landscaped grounds showcase a sparkling swimming pool, patios, lawn and relaxing spa, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor enjoyment. For equine enthusiasts, the horse facility is a standout feature, complete with, covered corrals, a turnout area, and a round pen. A 4-car garage provides abundant storage and space, rounding out this exceptional home. Whether you're relaxing by the fireplace, soaking in the views, or enjoying the numerous outdoor amenities, this estate offers an unparalleled living experience.
905 N Sinagua Heights Drive
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
$1,175,000
6
Beds
4
Baths
4,253
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747569
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to 905 N Sinagua Heights Dr, Flagstaff, AZ—a stunning blend of modern elegance and serene mountain living. This 6-bed, 3.75-bath property spans 4,253 sq. ft., featuring a sunlit great room, a modern kitchen with new appliances, and multi-level decks perfect for soaking in panoramic views. The primary suite offers its own private deck, while the game room and theater provide ideal spaces for entertainment. Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac with no HOA, this property is perfect for those seeking both comfort and freedom. Experience this exceptional Flagstaff retreat!
9378 W Via Montoya Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,175,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,729
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757502
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
INCREDIBLE floorplan in The Meadows - 3 separate bedroom wings w/bathrooms. Two living areas, 2 flex spaces - dens, offices, workout/game rooms? Resort-style backyard with travertine hardscape surrounding a bridged pool to gazebo-encircled hot tub. Freshly painted inside and out. New carpet throughout. Gourmet kitchen with massive island and SS appliances. Soft water system, owned solar system, 3-car garage, RV gate. There's MORE! Come take a look!
13527 E Summit Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$1,175,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,014
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761195
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled within the prestigious enclave of the Villas at Scottsdale Mountain, this stunning single-level home is a well designed open floorplan featuring an elegant great room with a floor to ceiling marble & stone fireplace & countless windows which allow natural light to flood the living space. You are greeted by custom Iron Doors, wood & marble flooring, and a designer kitchen with custom cabinets & brand new state of the art Dacor & Viking appliances. From the back patio enjoy gorgeous sunrise & sunset views, twinkling city lights & surrounding Mountain Views. The perfect ''Lock & Leave'' or enjoy ''Full Time''. Very private & very quiet. Double Gated w/Guard. Lifestyle w/Community pool, spa, tennis, pickleball & nearby hiking, golf, shopping & Dining. Meticulously Maintained!
5542 E Anderson Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,175,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,302
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771922
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautifully designed freshly painted Oct 2024 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers an expansive 9,210 sqft lot, providing both luxurious indoor living and a fantastic outdoor retreat. Inside, you'll find a spacious great room that seamlessly flows into the breakfast room, eat-in kitchen, and formal dining area—perfect for both intimate meals and larger gatherings. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring sleek granite countertops, a large working island, stainless steel appliances, and abundant cabinetry, all with stunning views of the private backyard pool through large, bright windows. The family room, complete with a cozy fireplace, provides a warm and inviting space for relaxing. Flooring throughout the home is a mix of plush carpet, elegant tile, and rich wood, adding to the home's overall charm and comfort. The spacious primary suite is your private sanctuary, featuring an ensuite bathroom with a separate shower and soaking tub, a private toilet room, and two large walk-in closets. Home has been freshly painted 10/1/2024 Outdoors, you'll find a covered patio that opens up to a beautifully landscaped private yard, complete with a sparkling poolideal for Arizona's warm climate. The backyard is an ideal space for entertaining, unwinding, or spending quality time with loved ones. The 3-car garage is equipped with built-in cabinets, an electric door opener, and direct entry to the home, offering plenty of space for storage and convenience. Whether you're hosting gatherings, enjoying the pool, or simply soaking in the tranquil surroundings, this home combines comfort, elegance, and functionality in a highly sought-after setting.
2541 E Carob Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$1,175,000
6
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,648
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784788
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful home in Freeman Farms on a large 11,050 sq. foot lot. This 6 bedroom 4.5 bathroom also features a main floor bonus/game room and second floor oversized loft. Custom kitchen touches include granite countertops, island, upgraded appliances including Thermador ovens and gas range, 42'' stainless steel fridge and a butler pantry with built in wine cooler. Numerous window shutters and ceiling fans throughout most of the home. The resort style backyard features an amazing heated pool with a waterfall, hot tub, built in BBQ and a large covered patio for ultimate relaxation. For added storage there is a 10'X10' custom built shed and a RV gate. The Freeman Farms community offers many parks/playgrounds and lakes. This is a must see.
14630 S 4th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85045
$1,175,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,976
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6756107
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
VIEWS from every room! Gated Community! Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of South Mountain Preserve, this spacious, well maintained, move-in-ready, newly carpeted two-story residence offers unparalleled mountain views from every room. The home includes 5 large bedrooms upstairs with ample natural light and mountain views. A den/bedroom with a separate closet and bathroom is located on the ground floor and is perfect for a home office or guest room. The primary bedroom has breathtaking views, a large sitting area, and an ensuite bathroom. The dream kitchen has newer stainless steel appliances, expansive countertops, and a walk-in pantry. The open floor plan is perfect for entertaining. In a gated community with access to 100 miles of trails.