Like many Sunday afternoons, today I performed what most Realtors consider one of the most unpopular facets of the job – The Sunday Open House. Everyone’s experience is different, but consider it. I leave my wife with three kiddos on a cold rainy Sunday for almost three hours. You may be wondering why I typed “three” hours, given an Open House in Columbia’s market is usually from 2-4. Well, you have to get there, put out a few more signs, go to Starbucks 🙂 , pick up the signs, and then get home. In all, it’s about a three hour commitment. Do I have to go to Starbucks? Of course not, but I usually do so I included it.
For many Realtors it could be a longer commitment as they may have to swing by the office, boot up their laptop to print flyers (assume that goes smoothly), break down and get to the neighborhood to start setting out signs. Like I said, everyone is different.
Why am I typing this? Today we freakin’ smoked it is why. I bet we had 15 to 20 groups come by to check out the two houses we have listed at the corner of Blossom and Holly Street. It looked like we were hosting a progressive tour of homes, serving wine and liquor. From 2-4 I didn’t sit down one time unless it was to discuss the house or real estate market with a visitor.
Can Open Houses be a waste of time? Sure! I’ve spent many afternoons in a vacant house sitting on someone’s hardwood floors or kitchen countertops striking out. Sure I’ve spent a few Sunday afternoons watching the football on someone else’s sofa. Conversely, I’ve acquired many buyer/seller clients from meeting folks who attend, while also exposing the listing to prospective buyers that may not otherwise ask to see the property.
I hear all the time, “Open Houses Don’t Work.” I may have even said it a few times. That said, how the heck do I know? Is an Open House the #1 act I can perform to sell the listing? Probably not. That said, if someone is going to hire me, I know I’m not too good to try for my seller.
If you or anyone you know would like to know more about a property for sale, or discuss the value of your home, please call 803-447-8683 or fjones@cbunited.com .
I had a good time this afternoon meeting everyone, and representing my sellers, too.
Thank you!
Franklin Jones
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