The Hidden Value of Open Houses in a Digital World
Digital marketing is powerful, but in-person open houses deliver something unique: emotional connection, spontaneous walk-ins, neighborhood buzz, and an opportunity to tell your home’s story in real life.
Why open houses still work
• Instant feedback: see how people move, where they hesitate, what they love.
• Exposure beyond the MLS: some local buyers stumble in unexpectedly.
• Emotional connection: seeing a home in person helps seal decisions.
• Builds urgency: seeing others tour can accelerate offers.
Tips to make open houses count
• Stage with intention — bring the outside in and lead with curb & entry.
• Create flow: send paths from living rooms to outdoor spaces, especially in warmer months.
• Use signage and local marketing — weekend foot traffic matters.
• Pre-register, get emails, follow-up fast.
• Time windows matter — Sunday afternoon tends to attract serious buyers.
Common mistakes to avoid
• Expecting open houses to replace good marketing — they’re supplements.
• Not tracking leads or following up immediately.
• Neglecting first impressions: weeds, cracked driveway, clutter kill leads fast.
Want to structure an open house that converts — not just shows? I’ve got a playbook. Let’s discuss your property. Contact me
Q: Do open houses still work in Orlando?
A: “Absolutely. Many of my closed deals started with open house walk-ins. They create an emotional spark you just can’t replicate online,” shares Mike Derenthal.
Q: Why bother with open houses in a digital world?
A: “The virtual world can inform, but the open house converts. It gives people context, scale, and a visceral connection,” Mike adds.