The Seller’s Guide to Open House Etiquette

9 September 2025

Selling your home is an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience. One of the most critical steps in the process? Hosting an open house. This event allows potential buyers to walk through your property, envision their future in your space, and (hopefully) fall in love with it.

However, just opening your doors isn’t enough—you need to present your home in the best possible light and make visitors feel comfortable. Knowing the proper etiquette for an open house can make all the difference in impressing buyers and securing the right offer.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about open house etiquette, from preparation to post-event follow-ups.

Why Open House Etiquette Matters

First impressions are everything in real estate. Buyers make judgments within seconds of walking into a home, so how you present your space—and yourself—can significantly impact their decision.

A well-executed open house creates an inviting atmosphere, puts potential buyers at ease, and showcases your home’s best features. On the flip side, poor etiquette can turn buyers off, reducing your chances of receiving top-dollar offers.

Preparing for Your Open House

1. Clean and Declutter Like a Pro

Your home should be spotless before buyers walk through the door. Think of it as preparing for a VIP guest—you wouldn’t want dirty dishes in the sink or clutter on the counters, right?

- Deep clean everything: Floors, windows, bathrooms, and kitchen surfaces should sparkle.
- Declutter rooms: Remove excess furniture, personal items, and anything that makes the space feel cramped.
- Depersonalize: Take down family photos, religious symbols, or anything overly personal to help buyers envision themselves living in the space.

2. Make Necessary Repairs

That leaky faucet, the squeaky door, or the chipped paint on the wall—buyers notice these little things. Tackling minor repairs before the open house signals that your home is well-maintained and move-in ready.

3. Boost Curb Appeal

The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see, so make sure it’s welcoming.

- Mow the lawn and trim any overgrown bushes
- Add fresh flowers or potted plants near the entryway
- Repaint or clean the front door for a polished look

A well-maintained exterior sets the tone for what buyers can expect inside.

4. Create a Warm Atmosphere

You want buyers to feel at home the moment they step in.

- Adjust the lighting for a warm and inviting ambiance
- Open curtains to let in natural light
- Play soft, neutral background music
- Use subtle scents like vanilla or citrus to create a pleasant aroma (avoid overpowering air fresheners)

These small touches help create a welcoming environment that makes buyers want to stay longer—and ultimately make an offer.

During the Open House

5. Step Out (Yes, You Read That Right!)

As the seller, your best move during an open house is to leave. Buyers need to feel free to explore, ask questions, and discuss their thoughts honestly—something they may not do if you’re hovering around.

Instead, let your real estate agent handle the event. They’re trained to highlight the home’s features, answer any questions, and gauge buyer interest professionally.

6. Provide a Welcoming Experience

Even though you won’t be there, you can still ensure visitors feel comfortable.

- Offer refreshments (bottled water, coffee, or light snacks)
- Have a property brochure or sheet with key information (square footage, recent upgrades, neighborhood highlights)
- Make sure there’s a clear path through the home so buyers can move freely

A thoughtful touch like a freshly baked cookie station can leave a lasting impression on visitors.

7. Secure Valuables

While most buyers are genuinely interested in purchasing a home, it’s always best to take precautionary measures:

- Lock away jewelry, cash, and other valuables
- Store important documents out of sight
- Remove prescription medications from medicine cabinets

Your safety and privacy should always come first.

8. Keep Pets Away

Your furry friend may be adorable, but not everyone is a pet lover. Some buyers may have allergies or simply prefer a pet-free home.

- Arrange for your pets to stay with a friend or family member
- If that’s not possible, confine them to a specific area away from visitors
- Remove pet odors by thoroughly cleaning carpets and using air purifiers

A pet-free home ensures all buyers feel comfortable during the showing.

9. Avoid Strong Scents

While it might be tempting to light scented candles or use air fresheners to mask odors, strong smells can be overwhelming and off-putting. Instead, opt for natural, mild scents like baking cookies or fresh flowers.

After the Open House

10. Follow Up Without Being Pushy

Once the open house is over, your agent will likely gather feedback from visitors. Pay attention to any recurring comments—these can provide valuable insights into what buyers liked or disliked.

Your agent should follow up with interested parties, answer additional questions, and gauge potential offers. If buyers show interest but hesitate, consider small incentives like covering closing costs or offering a home warranty to sweeten the deal.

11. Be Open to Feedback

Not every buyer will be head over heels for your home—some may even point out things they didn’t like. Instead of taking it personally, use their feedback to improve your home’s presentation or pricing strategy. Constructive criticism can help you make adjustments and attract the right buyers moving forward.

Final Thoughts

Open house etiquette isn’t just about having a clean home—it’s about creating an experience that makes buyers feel welcome, comfortable, and excited about the possibility of living there.

By preparing your home thoroughly, stepping out during the showing, and following up with potential buyers, you’ll increase your chances of securing the best possible offer.

Selling a home may feel overwhelming at times, but with the right approach, you’ll be handing over the keys to the perfect buyer in no time!