Tips for a Successful Mega Open House

As a Realtor, you’re familiar with open houses. Typically, an open house probably looks like this: you set out a sign at the front of a subdivision, maybe send a few emails or post on social media, and then you wait for some Sunday afternoon stragglers to wander through the property. At the end of the day, you’ve had very few prospects, and you feel like it’s been a waste of your time.

If you’re tired of spending hours at open houses that produce neither clients nor sales, perhaps it’s time to consider a mega open house.

What is a Mega Open House?

A mega open house is exactly as it sounds: an open house on steroids. It’s a way to connect not only with potential buyers but also with other neighbors who might need a Realtor.

Hosting a mega open house isn’t just a way to sell one property. It’s also an effective marketing strategy for your real estate business. Visitors to the open house might not purchase the property you’re selling that day, but they will remember your name. When it comes time for them to sell their home, those neighbors will know you go above and beyond for your clients.

Of course, as with any open house, safety should be your number one concern. Check out these tips to keep yourself and your guests protected.

Steps to Host a Successful Mega Open House

It’s all about spreading the word, being prepared, and making it a memorable experience for the attendees.

• Choose the ideal location
  

  You’ll want to host the open house at an exceptional property. Think of the properties for which you’re the selling agent. Is there one that stands out from the others? You’ll need ample room for guests, and you want it to wow attendees.

• Spread the word
  

  A party isn’t a party if no one shows up. Plan the event well in advance, and market it via social media, on your website, and by emailing your contacts list. Encourage your past clients to stop by and say hello. Tell friends and family to invite others. You might even consider creating mailers for the local neighborhood.

• Feed them, and they will come
  

  Few people will pass up free food, especially if it’s good. Consider catering a luncheon from a well-known restaurant and promote the meal in your marketing campaign.

• Provide entertainment – especially for the kids!
  

  Let’s face it: parents are more likely to attend an event if they know they’ll get a break from the kids. Provide some free entertainment – maybe a balloon artist, face painting, or a bouncy house in the back yard. That way, the kids will have fun, the parents will be relaxed, and you’ll have more time to chat with every guest.

• Promotions and giveaways to generate leads
  

  Yes, you’re trying to sell this house. But you’re also trying to generate business. Make sure you have a method to get new contact information from every visitor. Giveaways are one method to get wary visitors to write down their phone numbers and email addresses. Perhaps it’s a restaurant gift card, a home cleaning certificate, or something as grand as a tablet or phone.

• Have your information readily available
  

  There’s no shame in self-promotion, especially at an open house. Have tablets or laptops available for visitors to search their home’s value and view your website. Have business cards and brochures handy for attendees to take home.

• Follow up
  

  After the open house is done and everything is back in its place, it’s time to follow up on those leads. Email or call every person who wrote down their information to thank them for coming. Follow up by asking them about plans to buy or sell a home. Offer a free home value analysis, and add them to your email drip campaign. Maybe they’re not ready to sell right now, but when the time comes, your name will be at the forefront of their minds.

If you’re looking for a fun way to get some name recognition, try hosting a mega open house. It’s a great way to meet new clients and get people together.

Have YOU hosted a mega open house? What are your tips for other real estate agents? Leave them in the comments below!