Your first open house in New Orleans can be compared to a
movie’s world premiere. We may not have strobes flashing and paparazzi jostling
each other, but all eyes are definitely on the above-the-title headline star:
your house.
It’s a star that has to look its glamorous best, too, or the
fans will be disappointed. The purpose of any New Orleans open house is to sell
buyers on the largely emotional dream of potentially owning your home. Doing so
means banishing everyday imperfections—the debris created by daily living—from
the stage (at least to the extent it’s practical). Absolutely essential is insuring
that the whole property, inside and out, is clean and tidy.
Your first open house is one premiere that can use some set
decoration and makeup wizardry, as well. They call it ‘staging’ when a
professional sets the scene, but you don’t necessarily need a pro stager to make
some magic happen. Clear away every bit of clutter, then open the rooms to as
much flattering light as you can to create a setting that will appeal to buyers.
To insure the opening is as grand as possible, your New
Orleans open house should be literally as “open” as possible.
Restricting a room or two does not play well with the critics, so unless there
is a real risk in allowing visitors access, understand that any serious buyer
will need to see everything. Covering things up will look suspicious—even if you know you’re just doing so because
one room is a little messy. Having a room or two blocked off has been known to
deter otherwise interested prospects.
Part of movie’s success depends on good word-of-mouth, so
consider inviting the neighbors to stop by. They’ll be happy to receive an
invitation, and their presence can also work in your favor. When neighbors are there,
mingling in the lobby with potential buyers, their first-hand information about
the neighborhood, schools, etc. will carry ultimate believability.
First rate Hollywood premieres provide press kits by the
score; your Realtor® should
do the same. A front table should have your agent’s color fliers with all the
necessary information about the house…and you can consider taking it one step
farther with a sheet of your own detailing what you love about the home, the
neighborhood, the local schools, shops and restaurants. It’s the kind of souvenir
that can keep your house in the running when buyers decide which properties rate
a second visit.
Helping create New Orleans open
house hits is just part of my job! If you are looking to sell your home this spring, contact me today to discuss the details of
a marketing plan that will bring the results you want.
Terez Harris NOLA Real Estate Group
(504)297-2619
Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers licensed in the state of Louisiana.
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