Friday, September 19, 2014

Please and thank you for open houses

For the most part, holding open houses are one of my favorite real estate things.  It can be like a party and I get to meet new people.  Some people think that houses never sell from an open house showing, but that's completely false and I've done it several times.  However, some open house guests amaze me with unmindful behavior.  If you're visiting an open house, please...

  • Please don't bring your pet in the home with you.  I, like you, love dogs more than people, but that sentiment isn't universally shared.  It's not just that your pet might have an accident; it's that other guests may be afraid, allergic, etc.  I'm sure your dog isn't aggressive but nobody else knows that -- plus, there may be pets in the home that get aggressive at the sight of your dog. Thanks!
  • No matter how awesome your kids are, please keep them with you and maybe even hold their hands. Nobody wants an accident and your little ones are on unfamiliar turf.  Nobody wants anything broken in the house, either. Thanks!
    • This goes double for kids around outside swimming pools.  Your toddler may swim like Diana Nyad, but you probably don't, I don't either, and why cause panic to rise among all guests when you turn your back for one minute? Thanks. 
  • This "please" comes with a story.  The one time one of my open houses was burgled was right at the end of it.  The people posed as open house guests just as we were wrapping up, putting things away, and I was distracted.  They new I was distracted.  My bad.  The guys, who didn't look like potential home buyers, immediately went for the top drawer of the dresser and stole jewelry.  Of course, I make my sellers take all valuables out of the house, but...If you are a couple of guys who come at the end of the open, or a posse of young adults, expect me or my trusty bouncer to escort you through and not leave you alone for a second.  If you're really home buyers, you won't mind that, will you? Thanks!
I hope to see you at Sunday's open house at 11485 Moorpark #17 in Studio City.

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