A Charleston Open House - Your Property’s Moment in the Limelight

Your first open house in Charleston, SC can be compared to a movie’s world premiere. We may not have strobes flashing and paparazzi jostling each other, but all eyes are definitely on the above-the-title headline star: your house.

It’s a star that has to look its glamorous best, too, or the fans will be disappointed. The purpose of any Charleston open house is to sell buyers on the largely emotional dream of potentially owning your home. Doing so means banishing everyday imperfections—the debris created by daily living—from the stage (at least to the extent it’s practical). Absolutely essential is insuring that the whole property, inside and out, is clean and tidy.

Your first open house is one premiere that can use some set decoration and makeup wizardry, as well. They call it ‘staging’ when a professional sets the scene, but you don’t necessarily need a pro stager to make some magic happen. Clear away every bit of clutter, then open the rooms to as much flattering light as you can to create a setting that will appeal to buyers.

To insure the opening is as grand as possible, your Charleston, SC open house should be literally as “open” as possible. Restricting a room or two does not play well with the critics, so unless there is a real risk in allowing visitors access, understand that any serious buyer will need to see everything. Covering things up will look suspicious—even if you know you’re just doing so because one room is a little messy. Having a room or two blocked off has been known to deter otherwise interested prospects.

Part of movie’s success depends on good word-of-mouth, so consider inviting the neighbors to stop by. They’ll be happy to receive an invitation, and their presence can also work in your favor. When neighbors are there, mingling in the lobby with potential buyers, their first-hand information about the neighborhood, schools, etc. will carry ultimate believability. 

First rate Hollywood premieres provide press kits by the score; your Realtor^® should do the same. A front table should have your agent’s color fliers with all the necessary information about the house…and you can consider taking it one step farther with a sheet of your own detailing what you love about the home, the neighborhood, the local schools, shops and restaurants. It’s the kind of souvenir that can keep your house in the running when buyers decide which properties rate a second visit.

Helping create Charleston open house hits is just part of my job! If you are looking to sell your home this winter, contact me today to discuss the details of a marketing plan that will bring the results you want.

Interested in selling your Charleston area home? Visit: www.jeffcookrealestate.com

Interested in buying a Charleston area home? Visit: www.discovercharlestonareahomes.com

-Jeff Cook

Jeff Cook Real Estate

Charleston, SC