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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1402 E Briarwood Terrace
Phoenix, AZ 85048
$589,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,061
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6726149
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the Augusta gated community, this recently renovated, charming home features newer kitchen with quartz counters and shaker cabinets, master bathroom, tile flooring in the common areas, new interior paint as well as vaulted ceilings creating an open and airy feeling. And not only does it look inviting but renovations also include recent roof underlayment and one AC unit replacement. For those with an electric car, the newly epoxied, three car garage is wired for a car charger. With neighbors on only one side, the private backyard and pool provide an ideal spot for relaxing and entertaining. All this and easy access to the Foothills Golf course and South Mountain hiking trails make this a must see for those looking for a cozy, convenient, and move-in ready home.
36095 N Desert Tea Drive
Queen Creek, AZ 85140
$589,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,186
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6585436
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Welcome to this tastefully decorated and designed property located in the highly desired gated community of Encanterra! Downstairs, this home offers the primary room, a guest bedroom, bathroom and laundry. Upstairs, you're greeted with a cosy loft, two bedrooms and third bath. The kitchen is complete with quartz countertops, modern cabinetry, glass tile backsplash and GE Monogram stainless steel appliances with built in refrigerator, dual ovens and warming drawer. You want it furnished, 'lock & leave' status... Sure! Relax and enjoy yourself under the covered back patio with a built-in BBQ looking out to a large grassy area. Welcome home!
513 E Angela Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85022
$589,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,308
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6747667
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Pride of ownership is shown in this beautiful 3-bed, 2-bath home with custom-like charm! Great curb appeal highlighted by a 2-car garage & a mature landscape w/lush lawns. Fabulous interior showcases tons of natural light, a neutral palette, recessed lighting, & shiny tile floors w/wood-look in bedrooms. You'll love the spacious living room & the open-concept family room! The gourmet kitchen boasts SS appliances, granite counters & backsplash, oversized island, and a plethora of cabinetry. Cozy dining area w/bay window Double-door main bedroom has a walk-in closet and French doors that open to the ensuite w/dual sinks, jetted tub, & a tiled shower. Enjoy the entertainer's backyard offering a grassy area, covered patio w/extended pergola, & a fenced pool for year-round enjoyment! Just WOW!
1620 N San Marcos Drive
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$589,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,820
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766124
Property Type
Manufactured Home
Price Type
--
WOW! Look at this home, 1820 sq ft and 1758 sq ft garage/workshop. This property is over an acre and has a beautiful view of the Superstition Mountains . Home is a 4 bedroom, 2 bath with a½ bath in the shop. All appliances convey with the purchase, including washer/dryer. The granite countertops are beautiful and the wood look flooring was added in 2023 . The low-e windows were installed in 2023 as well. Home boasts a spacious kitchen, large pantry, pull-out shelves and an island. The master bedroom has an on suite with an oversized shower . The garage is a car buff's and/or handy-person's dream . Large door is 8' and has ample storage above . In the large part of the garage you will find a vehicle lift that can hold up to 9000lbs . Two 50 amp, one 30 amp plugs and a compressor for your toys or whatever you may have. You will see a low maintenance property the desert landscape and gardening shed. Heating and cooling were updated in 2018 in both the home and garage. Solar panels are 1/2 paid for, loan is assumable for the remainder. Keys are ready for a new adventure for you!
915 E Cobble Stone Drive
Queen Creek, AZ 85140
$589,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,186
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6716595
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Start enjoying Encanterra today! This spacious resort home is situated on a premium homesite overlooking a walking trail and stunning mountain views. This home offers a bright and open floorplan with 3 bedrooms, 3 bath, den and spacious loft. Step inside and you'll find upgraded tile plank flooring. The kitchen has beautiful maple cabinets and gorgeous quartz countertops and custom backsplash. All the bathrooms are upgraded with tile surrounds and upgraded fixtures. The garage is spotless with an epoxy finish, R/O and soft water system. The home is situated on a premium homesite and steps away from La Casa as well as the new Algarve, adult pool and restaurant. The Resort collection at Encanterra is perfect for the seasonal resident or year-round homeowner!
2930 E Leland Street
Mesa, AZ 85213
$589,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,796
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749119
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This newly painted home w/garages & parking galore!! NO HOA!! 3 car garage, a 12 ft RV gate, & a 60 ft long by 15 ft wide concrete pad behind the gate. A 46 ft long by 5 ft wide concrete walk leads from the garage walk door to back yard. Front door is under a covered pergola seating space & opens to a large front living room & then into the spacious kitchen, great room & breakfast nook. 42'' wood cabinets glow, accented by the beautiful granite and tile work. Master and 3 bedrooms complete the package. Lg master w/walk door to back patio, walk-in closet & beautiful bath w/custom tiled shower. Newer appliances. Interior just painted/freshened up, as well as exterior and trim painted. Large back yard is an open canvas & sale includes the 10 ft x 8 ft shed. Convenient NE Mesa location
1178 E Sabino Drive
Chandler, AZ 85286
$589,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,239
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6687681
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Just steps from the beautiful community pool and Tumbleweed Park and Rec Center. Bright, airy and open is the best description for this home. An island , breakfast bar and large pantry highlight the entertainer's kitchen with Stainless Steel Appliances. A sizable walk in closet, large private bath and dual sinks show off the primary bedroom. Located very close to shopping, schools and the freeway access. Lease expired and tenants left.
3677 E Park Avenue
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$588,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,450
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757367
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning home in the highly desirable Gilbert neighborhood of Higley Groves! Nestled on a lush tree-lined street across from the local school, this home offers both charm and convenience. Inside, you'll find a beautifully upgraded kitchen with quartz countertops, new stainless steel appliances, a stylish farm sink, abalone backsplash, and refinished cabinets with new hardware. The master suite features double sinks and a walk-in shower, while upgraded tile flooring throughout, 5-inch baseboards, and fresh paint enhance the modern feel throughout the home. New ceiling fans with remotes are hung in every room. Garage floors have beautiful epoxy finish. Wood shelving in garage will convey, however, wood workstation will not convey. Step outside to your backyard oasis with new pavers, a sparkling pool, and a heated Jacuzzi perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Both the pool pump and spa heater were replaced within the last year for worry-free enjoyment. The front courtyard, also with new pavers, offers an inviting space to unwind. Additional newly poured concrete slab in the driveway offers extended parking to the future homeowner. Blackout sunscreens on the windows provide relief from the beautiful Arizona sun when enjoying the calm interior of your new home. This low-maintenance home is ready for you to move in and enjoy! TVs and TV mounts do not convey.
624 E Laguna Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$588,500
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,803
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759953
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Solar Powered Energy Efficient Mid Century Modern 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Home located in a quiet cul-de-sac. 2 Car Attached garage with a brand new EV Charger. Extra Large Old Fashioned Pool with a 9' depth, a new filter and pump, with new decking. Remodeling: new master bath, new flooring throughout house with baseboard, new light fixtures, new HVAC duct work and vent system. Plumbing, electrical landscaping, and painting upgraded. It is a work in progress. You can finish to your tastes. Profitable rental and you can have an ADU. No HOA for your friends who have motor homes. Near schools and parks in an up and coming area of Tempe, 2 miles from the ASU campus. The lot is huge with alley access. Extra tall block wall in backyard for maximum privacy.
1114 N Velma Court
Gilbert, AZ 85233
$588,500
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,942
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769960
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this exceptional ADA-accessible 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Cooper Ranch, Gilbert, perfectly designed for comfortable living and entertaining. Enjoy the inviting atmosphere with fresh interior and exterior paint, solid wood doors, and brand new tile flooring throughout. The spacious, brand new extended porch is ideal for relaxing by the pool, while two charming barn doors add a unique touch to the open layout. The home boasts a well-maintained AC system (only 4 years old) and a brand new roof and fascia boards (2021). Outdoor spaces feature stunning travertine pavers, pet-friendly artificial turf, and a professional putting and chipping area designed by Celebrity Greens. With recent upgrades including a new power panel box (2022), water heater for the hot tub (2021)... and a modern kitchen remodel (2020) with new appliances (2022), this home blends style and functionality. Amazing solar powered pool lift for easy access to enjoy the sparkling pool. A 220 outlet in the garage is perfect for EV charging, while an accent wall installed in 2021 adds a stylish flair. This beautifully updated home is ready for you to make lasting memories!
932 W Macaw Court
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$588,005
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,303
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782320
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Ready End of December! Located Near all the amenities and park area.4 Bedrooms 3.5 baths, plus Study, beautiful White cabinets with Quartz Counter tops, Gas range, wood look tile, Herringbone tile backsplash and two-tone paint throughout!! View fenced backyard with covered patio to enjoy. Just steps away from all the amazing Amenities North Creek has to offer.
683 W Princeton Avenue
Gilbert, AZ 85233
$588,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,416
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779854
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Prepare to be amazed by this magnificent two-story gem in the desirable Community of Silverhawke! This beauty displays lush greenery, a mature shade tree, a 3-car garage, & an inviting courtyard. You'll love the immaculate interior, boasting spacious living areas perfect for welcoming & entertaining. The home exudes charm with its vaulted ceilings, chic light fixtures, & tile flooring. The impeccable kitchen is fully equipped with granite counters, a mosaic tile backsplash, recessed lighting, a pantry, & white cabinetry w/crown molding. Main suite is located upstairs & adorned with soft carpeting, a full ensuite w/a sliding barn door, & a generous walk-in closet. The home's elegance extends outdoors to the private backyard with a covered patio, fragrant citrus trees, & pavers. Act now! Vacant and easy to show. Appliances included. Additional incentives available.