Holding an open house can be a great way to bring attention to your property.  Almost half of all buyers use open houses as an information source in their home search (NAR 2007 Profile of Buyers and Sellers).

You will have a wide variety of people stopping by to learn more about your property, including your neighbors (remember, they may have friends and family who are in the market to buy a home too!)
 
Here are some tips to a successful open house:

• Have the house neat and tidy - free of clutter.  When selling your house, less is more and will help buyer's visualize their own belongings here.
• Have ample parking available for visitors.  Either place cars in garage or carport or move for the afternoon.
• Turn on the lights and open the window coverings, this will give your home a warm welcome to those who visit.
• Remember that some people may have allergies.  Avoid using air fresheners and try simmering some spices on the stove for a fresh welcoming scent.
• Refreshments are always a nice touch - especially in the heat of summer!  Talk to your agent about some ideas to help cool visitors off and help them enjoy their tour.
• Keep your home at a comfortable temperature.  Visitors of your open house may have been driving for a while in the heat and could be turned off to an overly warm house.
• Price your property right for your neighborhood and the market.  Your Equity Partners agent can help determine the right list price of your home through the knowledge of the real estate market in your area.
• Plan a good time to get maximum traffic - Talk to your Equity Partners agent to find the best time of week and day.