I held an open house over the weekend, and many of the neighbors came by; several were apologetic - almost embarrassed to stop in.  I love neighbors coming to my open house!  Neighbors are the “eyes and ears” of the neighborhood and may have a friend or relative house hunting in the area. 

Even if they don’t have a potential buyer for the home, a neighbor adds “traffic” to my open house and I appreciate that fact.  Traffic keeps me, the Realtor and the homeowner’s belongings safe.  Neighbors: I only ask that when attending my open house you be polite, talk up the neighborhood, and watch for any peculiar behavior. I welcome your presence.

Realtors, you know the drill. But for those of you, who don’t (or won’t): you present a card, you introduce yourself, “Hi I am Phyllis Harb from Dickson Podley Realtors, and here’s my card'. 

I am at the open house today with the goal of selling the house, and keeping the contents safe. I have a lot of people, and I shouldn’t need to follow a professional around, so please identify yourself.

Home Buyers: If you have been sent by your Realtor, please introduce yourself: “Hi, I am John Smith and my Realtor Phyllis Harb with Dickson Podley sent me today.”

I now know that you are aware of the home’s price and there are aspects of it that meet your criteria or your Realtor wouldn’t have sent you.  Although, you have your own representation, I am still at the home today to answer any of your questions.

Lookiloos: You too are welcome, that’s the point of the open house.  But if you are only interested in “remodeling ideas”, please don’t distract me from my goal of selling this house.

Parents with Children: PLEASE don’t let them touch everything. I am working very hard today and don't have time to add babysitter to my list of duties.

Serious Buyers:  You get lost in the crowd, sorry! You may be reluctant to step forward, if you feel ignored, my apologies; anytime you go to an open house, you are more than welcome to contact the agent (or any Realtor) later with questions.  

Open House Hours: Often we have another commitment after the open house.  So if you arrive ten or fifteen minutes late, please don't be angry that we have left. You are more than welcome to view the home at another mutually convenient time.