Hosting an open house is a great way to market your property to buyers, but it can also reveal certain risks if you aren’t prepared. Here are eight items to put away to keep yourself protected and to show your listing in the most positive light:
1. Mail, private documents and passwords
That list of passwords taped next to your computer? Tuck it away in a locked drawer, along with any mail, personal documents, and identification so you don’t fall victim to theft in your own home. Also, keep your Wi-Fi network private and don’t display your password for all to see.
2. Medications and prescriptions
If you store prescriptions and medication in your medicine cabinet, on your nightstand or the kitchen counter, store them in a safe place before your open house so they don’t end up in the wrong hands.
3. Electronics, valuables and heirlooms
A good rule of thumb is to store any items of value that might be enticing to others. Either take your valuables with you or hide them out of view. This includes cash, laptops, tablets, jewellery, heirlooms, and other expensive belongings.
4. House keys, car keys and remotes
If you keep extra house keys, car keys or remotes for your vehicles or garage in view, like on a hook in the front foyer, secure these items in a safe place or take them with you.
5. Ashtrays
Most sellers are aware that the smell of tobacco will turn off buyers, but it’s important to remember that ashtrays can deter buyers, even if they are for guests and visitors.
6. Air fresheners
A fresh-smelling home is important for your open house, but you want to be sure that it’s not offensive to buyers with sensitive noses. At the same time, you also don’t want to give the impression that you are hiding a bigger issue, like mould or mildew, by using an overabundance of plug-in air fresheners.
7. Fans and space heaters
Fans and space heaters might raise concerns about a home’s heating or cooling systems, plus they aren’t considered eye-pleasing décor. Always remove and store these items before your open house.
8. Pets and their belongings
Pets are family and very important members at that, but not all people feel this way. While making arrangements for where your cats, dogs and critters will go for the open house, take a few minutes to put away any food dishes, litter boxes, beds, and toys that might not appeal to buyers.
Final Thoughts
While it’s unlikely that you’ll come across any issues during your open house, these common-sense precautions are designed to protect you and your family, while ensuring a positive home-selling experience.
For more tips like these, please follow along on my Facebook page or contact me, Deborah Clerk, Real Estate Sales Representative and ASA at Keller Williams Realty Solutions, Brokerage, in Mississauga, Ontario.
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