Open House Success: 5 Tips Every Seller Should Know
Preparing for an open house can be a little overwhelming, but it’s also a powerful opportunity to showcase your home at its best! Creating a welcoming, well-curated environment will help prospective buyers imagine living in the space. Here are five essential tips to make your open house a hit, with some insider advice from Alexandra, Bluethumb’s Head of Art Advisory and in-house Interior Designer.
1. Mitigate Smells
Nothing can deter potential buyers quite like an unpleasant smell. A fresh, airy ambience is crucial, so open the windows and blinds to let in natural light and fresh air. This simple step can make all the difference in creating an inviting atmosphere.
“Buyers are not just purchasing a house—they’re envisioning a lifestyle,” Alexandra shares. When a home feels light and fresh, it instantly becomes more welcoming and helps them to see it as a place they want to live in.”
Need an excuse to buy beautiful flowers? Permission granted!
Your goal is to create a gentle, fresh aroma. Alexandra says a vase of fresh flowers is an ideal, low-effort way to add a subtle fragrance to your home. “Avoid heavy room fragrances or strong-scented candles—not everyone appreciates an overwhelming hit of frangipani,” she laughs. “These can actually have the opposite effect and turn people off.”
2. Declutter and De-Personalise
While your home may be full of personal memories, an open house requires a neutral canvas. Minimise signs of pets and personal items, including family photos and knickknacks. This allows potential buyers to imagine themselves—and their belongings—in the space.
Alexandra suggests, “A clean, decluttered space instantly feels larger and more inviting. When you keep things simple, visitors can appreciate the room without distractions.”
Less is definitely more, says Alexandra. It’s always better to underdo than overdo!
3. Make a Statement
First impressions matter. Don’t overcrowd the entryway. But do set the tone right from the start by adding a statement piece of art. “A single, striking piece can do wonders,” says Alexandra. “Carefully chosen art is the perfect way to welcome visitors and spark their imagination from the get-go.”
A warm, welcoming entry helps buyers get excited to see the rest of the home. So, choose a piece that complements your space without overpowering it. If you need help finding the perfect Bluethumb Art for your open house, contact Alexandra and her team for complimentary art advice.
Take some inspiration from Alexandra’s entryway, where a large-scale Indigenous artwork welcomes guests and sets the tone for the house!
4. Perfect the Bedroom
Much like dressing for an interview, your bed needs to look its best. Freshly laundered linens, fluffed pillows, and a polished bed arrangement can transform a simple room into a sellable sanctuary.
The secret to hotel-chi bedding is layers–the more pillows, the better!
“A bedroom should feel like a retreat,” Alexandra says. She suggests anchoring the bed with matching bedside tables and elegant reading lamps. “When it comes to dressing the bed, layer different textures and prints to create that luxurious hotel-style look.”
“Creating a sense of calmness with balanced decor, soft lighting, and cozy textures will make it a space buyers want to relax and unwind in.”
5. Focus on Lighting
Lighting can truly make or break a space’s appeal. Natural light is always ideal, but consider adding table lamps in dimmer areas if your home needs a boost. Creating a warm, welcoming glow throughout your home is an easy way to elevate the space. “Good lighting can change everything,” Alexandra explains. “Opt for warm, soft lighting, as harsh, bright lights can feel clinical and overly intense.”
Cordless lamps are perfect for those tricky spaces that lack power points.
Keep the lights on during the open house to create a soft, welcoming glow. This small step highlights the room and brings a cozy, homey feel to the space. Following these five tips will help potential buyers envision their future in the space, making your property one step closer to being their perfect match!
Discover Budget-Friendly Statement Art and make your first impression count!
