• Never advertise a property as vacant. This can invite unwanted attention and pose unnecessary risk.
• Use the buddy system when possible. Co-host with another agent or trusted colleague, especially in larger or unfamiliar homes.
• Check phone signal strength ahead of time and keep your phone and keys with you at all times. Program emergency numbers into speed dial.
• Establish and memorize multiple exit routes from each level of the home. Ensure doors and gates aren’t locked in a way that would block a quick exit.
• Avoid entering attics, basements, or enclosed areas where you could be trapped or have limited visibility.
• Position your workspace near the front entrance for maximum visibility of arriving guests and quick access to the exit.
• Have all visitors sign in — collect full names and contact information. This is useful for both safety and follow-up.
• Walk behind guests as you tour the home. Direct them verbally rather than leading — e.g., “The kitchen is on your left.”
• Check in with a designated contact hourly. Let someone know where you are, and ensure they’ll check on you if you miss a check-in.
• Give every visitor a consistent and professional experience. Be mindful of Fair Housing laws and avoid assumptions about who may or may not be a qualified buyer.
HOSTING THE OPEN HOUSE
• Greet visitors with warmth and confidence as they enter.
• Ask them to sign in.
• Allow them to tour freely or give them a guided tour.
The most inviting way to respond to their questions starts with -
“Would it be helpful if…”
• I shared some market stats with you?
• I shared more about the neighborhood?
• I offered you a quick snapshot of activity to stay up to date on what’s happening in the market?
• I set you up to receive alerts of other potential properties?
• If I offered you a real estate review?
“Do you have a Buyer’s Packet?”
• Would it be helpful if I gave you one?
• If they say yes:
• “If you do not mind; it would be helpful if you could please provide your contact information so that I may track open house attendance.” Provide a copy of the Buyer’s packet.
• Are you currently working with a real estate agent?
• How long have you been looking for a home?
• What’s your ideal timeline?
• Are you currently renting or do you own your current residence?
Motivation and Preferences
• If you could wave your magic wand, what would your dream home look like?
• Are there any dealbreakers for you?
• Have you seen any properties that you have liked recently?
Search Process
• Which areas are you most interested in?
• How are you currently searching for homesZillow, agent, online tools?
• Would it be helpful if I sent you updates on new listings that match your criteria?
Financing
• Have you spoken to a lender yet?
• Do you have questions about the financing process?
• Would it be helpful if I had my mortgage consultant reach out to discuss what works for you? They were ranked #1 by JD Power Associates for customer service over all other mortgage providers.
Laying Groundwork for Follow-Up
• If something came up in this area that checked all your boxes, would you want to know about it right away?
• Would you like for me to send you a few options that align with what you’re looking for?
• For interested buyers: “Can you see yourself living here?”
• If they say yes“That’s wonderful. At what price point would this home be worth it to you?” and then let them know you can write an offer up and present it on their behalf.
• If it’s not a match“What are you looking for?”
• Make notes and let them know you’ll send a list of homes that fit those criteria for possible future showings.
ENDING THE OPEN HOUSE
• Turn off the lights and make sure the house is in good condition.
• Make sure all the doors are locked and the home is secure.
• Leave your business card and a thank-you note for the seller.
• Call the property owner, or the listing agent if it is not your listing, and report the results of the Open House. This is crucial in preserving your relationship with the seller or the listing agent.
• Pick up all Open House directional signs and return to the office in a timely manner.
FOLLOWING UP WITH ATTENDEES
• Send all attendees a thank-you email, text, or video by end of day (videos are great because it will differentiate you from other agents in the market). If you have their mailing address, send a personal note in addition to immediate email, text or video message.
• Set them up in BHHS Connect and add to Auto-Flow #newsletter, #marketupdate.
• Create a Search Alert in BHHS CONNECT for property search.
• Periodically send a follow-up about the market, interest rates, or things to do in the area.
• Keep tabs on the neighborhood in which you did the open house for at least one to two months afterward and send email/call prospects any new listings that hit the market.
• Continue to follow up with relevant information, along with personal emails and calls to stay top of mind.
OPEN HOUSE SCRIPTS
Inviting Neighbors to Attend
Hi, I’m [Your Name] with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices [DBA].
I’m hosting an Open House just down the street at [address] this [day] from [time to time]. I’ll have some helpful information about the neighborhood market and would love for you to stop by and take a look.
If they say yes -
Great! I look forward to seeing you. Do you know anyone else who might be looking to move into the neighborhood? Ifyes,offertosharetheopenhouseinformationviatextoremail.
If they say no -
No worries at all. If you think of anyone who might be interested, feel free to pass along my card - and don’t hesitate to reach out if you ever have real estate questions.
Requesting Yard Sign Placement
Hi, I’m [Your Name] with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices [DBA].
I’ll be hosting an Open House nearby today and was hoping to place a directional sign at the corner of your yard. It would only be up for a few hours, and I’ll be sure to remove it afterward. Would that be alright?
If they say yes -
Thank you! And feel free to stop by - we’d love to have you. Do you know of anyone who may be thinking of buying or selling in the area?
If they say no -
I understand, but promise it will only be for about 3 hours in total and I’ll be sure to remove it right away. Iftheystillsayno - I appreciate your time and consideration and hope you have a lovely day.
OPEN HOUSE SCRIPTS
Welcoming Guests
Hi there! I’m [Your Name] with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices [DBA]. Welcome in.
Please sign in. The seller has asked all guests to register, and it also helps me follow up if you have questions afterward.
Make yourself at home as you walk through. Let me know if you have any questions along the way.
If They Don’t Have an Agent
Are you currently working with an agent?
If not - Sometimes having someone guide you through the process can make everything a lot simpler. If you’d like, we could set up a time to chat more about what you’re looking for and how I can help.
Would a quick meeting later this week work for you?
If They’re Not Ready Yet
Totally understand - it’s a big decision.
If you’re open to it, I can set you up to receive listings that match what you’re looking for, and you’ll be the first to know when something new hits the market.
What is your email address?
If They Have an Agent
That’s great! I hope your search is going well.
If I can ever be a resource, please feel free to reach out.
Before They Leave
Thank you again for stopping by today. It was great to meet you.
Here’s my card - please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Strong attendance isn’t just luck — it’s a result of strategic planning and execution.
• The reason you are hosting an open house is to grow your sphere.
• Remember, you are also “interviewing” for potential listings with neighbors.
• Staying in touch is vital. Most business comes after the fifth - twelfth follow up.
