You've painted the walls, replaced the appliances, and transformed your real estate investment from a drab, dilapidated property to an attractive, warm, and inviting family home. Once you've listed the house online, it's time to plan your first open house. What can you do to make the open house as successful as possible?

Here are 5 ideas for a great event:

Keep the home clutter-free

This means that anything your contractors have left behind should be out of view. People at the open house will often open cabinets; make sure the cabinets are clean and pristine. There should be no sign of contractor tools such as caulking supplies that have been stashed away in kitchen areas.

Wipe down dusty and dirty areas

Sure, everyone knows that you've renovated the home, and it looks great, but there's nothing less appealing for a home buyer than reaching out to grab a doorknob or curtain and getting their hands dirty with drywall dust. Dust settles everywhere, even if you've vacuumed. Wipe wood fixtures, doorknobs and handles clean with a wet cloth.

Let the sun in

There's nothing drearier than a dark house. You've done a bang-up job improving the property, it's important that you let your potential buyers see it. Open the blinds, pull back the curtains, and let natural light in. Do this hours ahead of time in case you see any dust, smudges, or other imperfections.

Create an inviting kitchen

Many real estate agents swear by the smell of fresh cookies or a popcorn machine that they bring to each open house. Cook something that you can share, but don't go exotic. The smell of something baking helps bring pleasant thoughts and memories to your visitors. It also helps buyers to imagine themselves in the kitchen. Cookies, popcorn, and other snacks are also an invitation for interested buyers to linger and chat. A bit of wine can add sophistication to the opening as well.

Don't forget curb appeal

If the trash canisters are full, tote them behind the house or put them away in the garage, out of view. Make sure the lawn is freshly cut and you have raked away leaves, clutter, and other debris from the front of the home. Hose down the paint or siding a few hours before the open house event.

These are just a few “little things” you can do to make your open house more appealing. Little things can often make a big difference when it comes to selling your properties. Interested in better financing or house flipping? Please contact us. We are happy to help you explore the possibilities when it comes to real estate investing.