Do Open Houses Really Work? How Great Agents Turn Them Into Traffic Magnets

Open houses have been a staple in real estate for decades, conjuring images of freshly baked cookies, tidy living rooms, and neighbors peeking in for a look. But do open houses actually help sell homes? And how do top agents make the most of these events? Let’s pull back the curtain and see what’s really going on.

The Truth About Open Houses

Here’s the honest scoop: while only a small percentage of homes are sold directly as a result of an open house, these events still serve a valuable purpose. According to the National Association of Realtors, just 4-6% of buyers find their new home through an open house. However, the story doesn’t end there.

Why Bother With Open Houses?

Think of an open house as more than just a sales pitch. It’s a marketing tool—a way to create buzz, generate foot traffic, and give your home a moment in the spotlight. For sellers, it’s a chance to show off the property at its best. For agents, it’s an opportunity to connect with potential buyers and even future clients.

How Great Agents Make Open Houses Work

• Strategic Timing: Top agents schedule open houses when buyer activity is highest—typically weekends or just after a home hits the market.
• Staging to Impress: They help sellers declutter, add inviting touches, and highlight a home’s best features, making a memorable first impression.
• Marketing Magic: Great agents don’t just put a sign in the yard. They promote the open house online, on social media, through email blasts, and to their network, ensuring maximum exposure.
• Creating an Experience: From refreshments to music, savvy agents make the event feel welcoming and engaging, encouraging visitors to linger and imagine themselves living there.
• Gathering Feedback: They use open houses to collect honest feedback from attendees, which can be invaluable for making adjustments or understanding buyer hesitations.
• Building Relationships: Open houses are a goldmine for networking. Great agents connect with neighbors, curious visitors, and serious buyers alike, planting seeds for future business.

Are Open Houses Right for Every Home?

Not always. Some properties—like those in remote areas or luxury listings with privacy concerns—may benefit more from private showings. But for many homes, especially in active markets, an open house can be a powerful way to jumpstart interest.

The Bottom Line

Open houses might not always seal the deal on their own, but in the hands of a skilled agent, they become much more than just a weekend tradition. They’re a strategic tool for driving traffic, creating buzz, and building connections that can ultimately lead to a sale.

If you’re thinking about selling, talk to your agent about whether an open house makes sense for your property—and how to make the most of the opportunity.