These numbers suggest that open houses may not be a waste of the agent's time, although they may not benefit the seller. Agent open houses are held when the listing agent invites other agents to view the home when first placed on the market, hoping one or more agents will have a buyer interested in the home. Only 43 percent believe that holding an agent open house is essential to the sale of unusual home styles. Holding open houses is not the only way agents can attract listings. Survey respondents view referral and community involvement as effective tools, which rank first and second in effectiveness and popularity.
Open houses rank third in familiarity but seventh in effectiveness.
One of the keys to selling a listing, especially in highly competitive markets, is for serious buyers to see the home. Although these methods are not new, agents still feel they are the most effective.