The property adage goes that “first impressions matter” but when it comes to holding an open home, the mantra is “every impression matters.”

That’s because how a property is presented for an open home can be the difference between astounding or alarming a prospective buyer.

We explain what buyers, with the help of their agent, need to focus on before opening the doors to would-be buyers.

The overall feel

The simplest piece of advice to follow is to present the property in its best possible light,

“Make sure everything is neat, tidy, cool and fresh; all the things we know buyers look for when they inspect a property,” he says. Open doors, ensure lights are turned on and even light a few good-quality candles to cater to all the senses.

While many experts suggest stripping out any personal touches of a home, it’s a fine line. “You actually don’t need to depersonalise, as you don’t want it to feel too sterile. You want your market to see that it’s a loved home.”

Home staging is an important part of the selling process. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy

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Hire furniture

We often recommend vendors hire furniture for the duration of a sales campaign.

“Hire furniture sells the dream of how a buyer would live in a property. A living room is just an open room, but when you add hire furniture, it becomes a place where people can imagine themselves living there,”

Styling

While adding a few pieces of stylish furniture or fancy art can work wonders, we advise vendors to never “over-style” a property. “When it comes to styling for an open, less is more. You want it to feel loved and cozy and not overdone.”

Don’t forget outside

It’s a trap to focus solely on the interior of a property, “Outdoors is important, especially if it’s an entertaining zone. Carry the same level of beauty you apply inside to the outside. Set up tables and chairs and neaten all the gardens,”

Outdoor areas should be neat and inviting for open homes. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy

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