McLean Team swears by open houses

Abstract: Most agents dislike open houses, not this team

To sell a home quickly and for the highest value, its important to get as many people through the door as possible. Though most agents dislike hosting open houses, the father-daughter team of Bill and Shannon McLean swear by this method and say they often sell houses as a result of an open house.

But the team also warns that an open house doesnt mean an open door into your home. Your home and property security is our top priority, says Shannon, who explains that every person who walks through an open house is qualified first.

A sign out front notifies people that their photo identification will be checked, and when they enter the home theyll have to register their visit in the agents log book. We have never had anything stolen or broker during our open houses, Bill boasts, and goes on to say that the team also advises parents about unruly kids in the home.

In addition to the security aspect, this controlled access means that Bill and Shannon can take time to talk to potential buyers about the property, telling them about the features of the home and the area.

When the McLeans advertise your propertys open house they do so via a variety of mediums. Print advertising, online promotion and word of mouth are all great ways to generate the interest of potential buyers.

Often neighbours have friends or relatives wanting into the neighbourhood, Bill says, so the open house gives them a good idea of whats available. When held on the weekend, an open house is convenient for buyers and sellers maximize the number of people viewing the property. Plus, the number of people coming through gives Bill and Shannon an idea of how many buyers are out there for the home.