Hosting an open house in 2025 is still one of the best ways to generate interest, attract buyers, and create momentum for your home sale. But with changing buyer expectations and safety concerns, it’s important to plan your open house the right way. Whether you’re working with a flat fee MLS service or listing on your own, here are key tips to help you make it a success—while keeping safety and presentation in mind.

1. Prep Your Home Like a Pro

Before opening your doors, make sure your home is clean, decluttered, and well-staged. Buyers need to imagine themselves living there, so remove personal items, brighten each room, and pay attention to curb appeal.

Quick tips:

• Use natural lighting when possible.
• Add fresh flowers or neutral decor.
• Make minor repairs and touch up paint if needed.

2. Promote It Where Buyers Are Looking

The best open house in the world won’t matter if no one knows about it. List your open house on the MLS, major real estate websites, and social media. Services like List With Freedom can help sellers get their homes listed on the MLS with a flat fee, making it easier to reach serious buyers.

Don’t forget:

• Include the open house date and time in your listing.
• Use signs and local neighborhood groups to spread the word.

3. Schedule Smart and Be Flexible

Weekends, especially Sunday afternoons, tend to attract the most traffic. Plan your open house around buyers’ availability, and offer virtual tour options if possible. This added flexibility can make your listing stand out—especially to out-of-town buyers.

4. Keep It Safe and Secure

It’s important to keep safety top of mind when hosting an open house. Limit entry to one group at a time if needed, ask for visitor sign-ins, and secure valuables in a locked drawer or safe.

Pro tip: If you’re not comfortable hosting the open house yourself, consider bringing a friend or using showing tools available through flat fee MLS platforms like List With Freedom.

5. Be Ready to Answer Questions

Buyers may have questions about the home, neighborhood, or recent upgrades. Keep key information handy, such as utility costs, HOA fees, or nearby schools. You don’t need to be a sales expert—just be honest and helpful.

6. Follow Up After the Event

Collecting feedback from visitors can help you make small improvements—or even spark an offer. Leave a sign-in sheet or offer a digital sign-in with follow-up emails thanking attendees.

Thinking of Hosting Your Own Open House?

You don’t need to be a real estate agent to host a successful open house. With the right preparation, smart marketing, and tools from services like List With Freedom, sellers can take control of the process while saving thousands in commission.

Start strong and stay in control. Learn more about listing your home with a flat fee MLS today.

📍 Ready to save thousands? Contact us now to explore your options.