Are home opens still important in a booming market?

In a fast-paced property market where buyer demand is high, it seems that properties get sold even without home opens in some cases.

How the WA market has changed

Just a couple of years ago when the WA property market was slow, home opens (and often lots of them) were pivotal to the success of selling a property.

Fast forward to 2021 and the WA market is firmly amid a property boom. There is a shortage of houses for sale and those properties that are listed for sale are selling much quicker than they were, and in some extreme cases even ‘sight unseen’. So, what does this mean for home opens?

Home opens help maximise price.

Whilst you may not have to hold as many as you would have a year or two ago, there are still plenty of benefits to ensuring home opens form part of your marketing plan.

Most agents agree the best way to sell a property quickly, for the best price, is to maximise its exposure to the broadest possible market. This can range from informing the agent’s database of potential buyers about your property, outdoor signage, advertising and importantly, holding a home open.

While websites like reiwa.com allow sellers to provide a lot of pictures and details about the property, most buyers still want to see the property in person, which is where a home open is most effective.

Still important to present your property in the best light

Good presentation can make a big difference to the success of your home open. While it is not necessary to undergo a full renovation beforehand, making some cosmetic improvements can go a long way to attracting more interest and achieving a higher sale price.

Make sure your home is clean and tidy. Also, consider things like natural light and fresh air, ensuring your home has a pleasant smell, but nothing overpowering, and that the temperature is comfortable.

It can also be worthwhile incorporating some personal touches, like fresh flowers, to make your home look more welcoming. You would be surprised how often the ‘little’ things can make a big difference to buyers.

The more buyers you attract, the better your sale chances are

Even in a competitive market, it is worth putting in that effort. The more buyers you have genuinely interested in your property the more likely you are to achieve a sale that meets or exceeds your expectations.

More information

If you’re looking to sell, speak with your RE/MAX Extreme real estate agent about how to present your property in the best possible light.