7 Steps to Preparing for an Open House

by Rachel Lipszyc

March 23, 2023

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1. Hire a cleaning service. A spotlessly clean home is essential; dirt will turn off a prospect
faster than anything.

2. Mow your lawn, and be sure toys and yard equipment are put away.

3. Serve cookies, coffee, and soft drinks. It creates a welcoming touch. But be sure the
kitchen has been cleaned up; use disposable cups so the sink doesn’t fill up.

4. Lock up your valuables, jewelry, and money. Although the real estate salesperson will
be on site during the open house, it’s impossible to watch everyone all the time.

5. Turn on all the lights. Even in the daytime, incandescent lights add sparkle.

6. Send your pets to a neighbor or take them outside. If that’s not possible, crate them or
confine them to one room (a basement or bath), and let the salesperson know where to
find them.

7. Leave. It’s awkward for prospective buyers to look in your closets and express their
opinions of your home with you there.