Once your home is officially listed, the excitement really begins. Buyers start to notice your property, and soon you will receive requests for showings or even want to host an open house.
Both are key opportunities to make a strong impression and move closer to an offer. But handling them well requires a bit of planning and the right mindset. Here is how to make the most of every showing and open house while keeping your sale smooth and stress-free.
Be Ready Before Requests Start Coming In
First impressions matter, and the easiest way to stay prepared is to keep your home in showing condition from the start. This means keeping it clean, clutter-free, and well-lit.
A buyer could request a showing with only a few hours’ notice, so it helps to have a simple routine:
Make beds each morning.
Keep countertops clear.
Store away personal items and paperwork.
Take out the trash regularly.
Open blinds to let in natural light.
When your home is always ready for a quick showing, you will never feel rushed or unprepared.
Respond Quickly to Showing Requests
Buyers who request a showing are already interested, and timing is everything. Responding quickly can make the difference between getting that showing or losing the opportunity altogether.
If your home is listed with List With Freedom, your showing requests will typically come through email or your MLS-connected platform. Confirm times as soon as possible and try to be flexible with scheduling, especially during evenings or weekends when most buyers are available.
The easier you make it for buyers to see your home, the faster you can generate offers.
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
When a buyer walks through your door, you want them to imagine living there. A few small touches can help create the right atmosphere:
Set a comfortable temperature.
Open curtains and turn on lights.
Add a subtle, fresh scent.
Play soft background music if appropriate.
If possible, step out during the showing. Buyers often feel more comfortable asking questions and exploring freely when the seller is not present.
Hosting an Open House
An open house allows multiple buyers to tour your home in a relaxed setting. To make the most of it, plan ahead and focus on presentation and communication.
Here are a few simple tips:
Pick a weekend time when most buyers are available.
Promote your open house on the MLS and social media.
Place clear signage outside to guide visitors.
Prepare flyers with your home’s details and recent updates.
If you are using List With Freedom, your MLS listing automatically promotes your open house to major home search sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin, giving it more visibility to active buyers.
Stay Organized During Showings and Events
Keep a small notebook or digital list to track who visits your property and what feedback they provide. Buyer feedback can reveal valuable insights — such as if your price is too high, if certain rooms feel too small, or if something about the layout could be improved.
Use this feedback to make small adjustments that help attract stronger offers.
Safety and Security Tips
While most showings are perfectly safe, it is always wise to take precautions:
Secure valuables, mail, and personal documents.
Keep medications out of sight.
Do not share too many personal details with visitors.
Lock doors and windows after every showing.
These simple steps help protect your home and maintain peace of mind.
After the Showing or Open House
Follow up quickly with anyone who expressed interest. A simple email or message thanking them for visiting and asking for feedback can make a positive impression.
If you receive multiple inquiries, stay organized and prioritize serious buyers who are pre-approved or ready to move forward.
Make Every Showing Count
Showings and open houses are your chance to bring your listing to life. Each visit is an opportunity to help buyers see themselves living in your home.
By staying organized, keeping your home ready, and being responsive, you can turn casual interest into real offers.
At List With Freedom, we make it easier to reach more buyers and stay in control of the process — all while saving thousands in commission. The more you prepare, the smoother your sale will be, and every showing can bring you one step closer to closing day.
Next Steps:
➝ Explore our pricing plans
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