Open House Checklist

Open House Checklist

2 Weeks Before: ____ 5-10 Directional Signs—2 weekends, back to back ____ 1500 flyers—2 weekends, back to back. Post everywhere permitted by local laws. ____ 1500 Postcards—3 weeks, back to back (Optional) ____ Post Open House dates on your Craig’s List Posting. ____ Multiple Exit Strategy Postings ____ 2 Back to Back Open Houses ____ Reserve a trusted cleaning service for the day before your open house. ____ Fix chipped paint inside and out. ____ Repaint bold walls with neutral colors. ____ Un-clutter closets. ____ Have rugs cleaned and floors polished. ____ Plant flowers and add any additional landscaping items. ____ Secure a storage facility for any clutter. ____ Make plans for pets to be away starting 24 hours before open house.
1 Week Before: ____ Trim hedges and cleanup all landscaping items. ____ Clean out gutters. ____ Move excessive furniture, appliances, clothes to storage facility. ____ Scrub all doors and decks/patio’s. ____ Prepare all handouts and gift bags. ____ Plan out Emotional Strings.
2 Days Before: ____ Hide all electronic cords. ____ Hide traces of pet odor. ____ Lock up valuables. ____ Verify cleaning service appointment. ____ Verify all signs are posted. ____ Clean out garage. Remove any floor stains.
1 Day Before: ____ Check in on cleaning service before they leave. ____ Place handouts and gift bags by front door. ____ Place a sign in sheet in kitchen. Should contain name and contact info. ____ Verify outside is cleaned up and ready for showing. ____ Air out the entire house. ____ Clean all windows.
Morning-Of: ____ Open drapes and curtains. ____ Turn lights on in dark rooms. ____ Ensure the temperature is comfortable. ____ Straighten up all rooms. ____ Create a nice scent. Air fresheners may overwhelm the room. Grind coffee in the kitchen! ____ Turn on soothing music. ____ Smile and have fun!