One of the most talked about tactics in selling real estate is the open house. In years gone by the open house was a staple tactic of selling real estate. However in recent years the "just looking" trend has brought some unfortunate attention on what has traditionally been a great marketing tool. Many people have asked if the open house still holds any value in today's real estate market. The simple truth is that it does.

When a home goes on the market there is a complex series of events that goes into motion. This is of course, referring to the marketing plan that the agent has devised for the home or property in question. Truly, in years past open houses were responsible for a lot of home sales. Then again, at that time you did not get a lot of unqualified lookers taking up valuable time. Now, a note should be made that there are typically two different open houses that take place. The one that happens before the home is openly listed is for other agents. This viewing is for other agents who service the same area as the listing agent. As one could imagine this is an important showing as these other agents represent numerous buyers who are currently looking in your area.

The more traditional open house typically happens on a weekend when the majority of people are available to view homes. It is the realtor's job to ensure that viewers are of the qualified variety. There will be a number of "looky loos" but that is really unavoidable. An open house can be a definitive mind changer for someone who is interested in the home. Perhaps they have seen it online already and seeing it in person will be the experience that changes their minds for the better. Many buyers would rather come to an open house before setting an appointment to see the home as there is little pressure during an open house, and a level of anonymity that is not really possible with an appointment. Open houses are an important part of the selling process, do not underestimate their worth.