In today’s world of real estate, there are seemingly endless ways for agents to market their listings. With technology and social media booming like never before, the options for agents to advertise and, therefore, sell homes seem to be growing exponentially by the day, becoming slightly overwhelming for agents who are less-than-savvy with the Internet, mobile technology and social networking. However, tried-and-true methods still exist, fueling sales nationwide.
- Open houses remain a fruitful option for agents to sell homes, but more importantly, to meet prospective clients face to face who are still seeking representation.
- Open houses have consistently proven their worth in the real estate industry, and the key to success is using the right tools for the job
Real estate agents claim to host 1-6 open houses per month, while almost a quarter (24 percent) abstain from them all together. While reasons vary as to why agents choose to host or disregard open houses, 35 percent indicated that sellers “frequently” expect open houses to be included in overall marketing plans, while 41 percent said sellers “sometimes” expect them, suggesting that the events are still utilized due to their popularity in the eyes of clients. In terms of benefits to the agent, gaining leads and referrals led the pack, followed second by getting invaluable buyer feedback.
To promote open houses, the top method of communication used was hardly a shocker: social media. Email blasts and print advertising were also highly selected by respondents as methods of promotion. Respondents also indicated many other left-of-center methods for drawing in potential buyers, including gift card raffles and other giveaways, a wine tasting, and a “sneak-peek” BBQ held the night before. Other responses were far left-of-center: one agent hired a sign holder and dressed him in a dog costume, and another held a “Where’s Waldo”-style game, with a hidden garden gnome in the house – whoever found him first won a special prize. Creativity seems key when hosting an open house, and the more unique ideas agents bring to the table, the greater the result, according to the responses.
While many indicate that personal phone calls and emails are common follow-up strategies, some stated using the Open Home Pro app as a huge aid to their efforts. While Open Home Pro streamlines the process for agents, automating a follow-up response for them, others responded that hand-written letters were chosen to add a personal touch and help solidify their new leads captured at the event.
Open Home Pro® is a free app that aims to simplify and streamline the process for agents. The most downloaded open house app on iOS and Android handles everything from the planning and marketing stages of the open house to the collecting of data and sending of follow-up emails post-event. Open Home Pro® makes it easy to engage with potential buyers and keep the conversation flowing long after the visitors have left and with minimal effort from the agent. Judging by its 4.5-star rating in the Apple App Store and rave reviews all over the Web, it’s safe to say that this appears to be a mission accomplished.