Open houses are an excellent way to get started if you're new to Calgary real estate. Just possibilities, no obligations, no pressure.
Additionally, an open house may be the catalyst for your sale.
Go check out the next sandwich board on the corner that points to a sleek, contemporary condo or a quaint cottage. That front door could be the key to your next big move.
On a Sunday afternoon, there's something thrilling about strolling through a stunning house and visualizing yourself living there, coffee in hand, sunlight streaming in through the windows. That's what makes an open home so magical.
In Calgary, open houses are a custom rather than merely a sales strategy. Knowing how open houses operate in our city may be quite helpful, whether you're a serious buyer, an interested neighbor, or a homeowner preparing to sell.
Let's examine what makes Calgary open houses special and how you may take advantage of them.
How Does an Open House Work?
Consider it a house party sans the festivities. When a house is listed, a real estate agent welcomes the public inside without an appointment. There is no pressure on you to move around, ask questions, or simply take in the space.
Open houses provide a useful window (literally) into what's available in a city like Calgary, where real estate moves more slowly in some places and more quickly in others.
The Real Estate Spirit of Calgary
With its dynamic downtown condos, quaint inner-city bungalows, suburban family homes, and everything in between, Calgary is a city of contrasts. This diversity is reflected in open houses.
What makes Calgary's open house scene special is this:
- Seasonal flow: The busiest seasons are spring and fall. Busy summers and snowy winters calm things down a little.
- Weekend warriors: Saturdays and Sundays are when most open houses take place, usually from 1 to 4 PM.
- We welcome walk-ins: Although it helps if you're serious, you don't need to have a Realtor with you or be pre-approved.
Tips for Buyers: Don’t Just Browse—Scout Like a Pro
1. Be Strategic: Plan Your Route Like a Realtor
Plan your day to make the most of open houses rather than just showing up at random. Because Calgary is a large city, open houses may be dispersed throughout several neighborhoods. Based on your desired lifestyle, start by selecting a certain neighborhood or region (such as NW Calgary or inner-city neighborhoods like Kensington or Inglewood).
2. Take Photos (With Permission): Your Memory Will Thank You
After the third or fourth open house, they may begin to blend together. Take crisp, well-lit pictures of the kitchen, bathroom, basement, backyard, and any other noteworthy aspects of each house.
Why it matters: It will give you a visual reference for future home comparisons and discussions with your agent or partner.
3. Ask the Agent the Right Questions: Become a Detective
Although the listing sheet may provide you with the number of bedrooms and square footage, the agent is the one with the inside knowledge. Take advantage of open houses to learn more about the house and the seller's attitude.
The following are wise inquiries to make:
- What is the duration of the property's listing?
A longer period could indicate a slower market or problems with pricing.
- Has there been a decrease in price?
Could be an indication of market resistance or seller motivation.
- Are there any recent repairs or known problems?
Keep an eye out for any plumbing, roofing, or structural issues.
- What does the sale include?
Appliances? Coverings for windows? Backyard hot tub?
- The seller is moving, but why?
It could be a motivated seller or hints about possible drawbacks.
4. Look Beyond the Staging: Don’t Be Fooled by Fluff
Anyone can be charmed by a well-staged property. However, your objective is to evaluate the home's layout, structure, and livability, not to adore the throw cushions.
Things to ignore:
- Color of paint (easy to modify)
- Arrangement of furniture (typically selected to create the illusion of larger spaces)
- Fragrance (sometimes used to cover off smells)
Things to pay special attention to:
- Is there enough light and windows? Which way are they facing?
- Open the doors to the closet and storage area and measure the depth.
- Does the layout flow make sense for day-to-day living?
- Wear indicators include warped floors, water stains, cracks, and musty odors.
5. Keep Your Poker Face: Play it Cool
Imagine entering the house of your dreams. It's flawless. Your heart is pounding. The problem is that you don't want that to be seen.
Why?
Considering the listing agent is listening and observing. They might tell the seller how much you adore the place, which could later impact your negotiating position.
Tips for Sellers: Make It Unforgettable
1. Clean Like You’ve Never Cleaned Before: First Impressions Are Everything
Within ten seconds of entering a house, buyers form an opinion about it. if they arrive to find dust, mess, or odd odors? The game is over.
Go beyond the fundamentals:
- Corners and baseboards: These frequently disregarded areas are important.
- Windows: Clear windows increase natural light and give the room an airy feeling.
- Sinks and appliances: Make sure they are clean because buyers will open the refrigerator and look under the sink.
- Bathrooms: Personal belongings, including toothbrushes and razors, should be hidden. Only use clean towels.
- Odors: Eliminate cooking, smoking, and pet odors. Clean them at the source rather than merely covering them up.
2. Set the Mood: Create a Sensory Experience
You are selling a way of life, not simply a house. Make guests feel welcome and encourage them to remain longer by using subliminal clues.
Make use of all five senses:
- Sight: Switch on every light. Use bulbs with warm tones. To let in natural light, open the blinds.
- Sound: Calm background music creates a tranquil atmosphere. Consider soft instrumental or acoustic music.
- Smell: Use essential oil diffusers, burn a vanilla or citrus-scented candle, or bake cookies. Steer clear of strong smells.
- Touch: Use velvet cushions, fluffy pillows, or soft throw blankets; textures make things more comfortable.
- Taste: Serve tiny snacks, such as individually wrapped treats, bottled water, or cookies.
3. Tell a Story: Let the Home Speak Emotionally
A well decorated house conveys the message that this is the place where your life may unfold.
How to stage with intention:
- Assemble the dining table: Illustrate what family dinners might entail.
- Place a book and mug next to a comfortable chair to promote rest.
- Design the kitchen island: A cookbook spread out or a dish of fresh fruit can give the space a cozy, lived-in vibe.
- Decorate the entrance: A plant, a bench, and a mirror can create a mood as soon as people enter.
4. Step Out: Give Buyers Space to Explore
It's tempting to stay as the seller and list all the wonderful aspects about your house. The fact is, though, that your presence unnerves purchasers. They require room to freely criticize, imagine, and express themselves.
Why you should go:
- When you're around, buyers feel uncomfortable voicing their opinions.
- If you're still living in the house, they can't imagine living there.
- Agents are taught to handle challenging inquiries and draw attention to the best aspects without showing emotion.