Open Home Day-of Checklist
Your complete professional guide to running a successful open home showing in New Zealand.
Set Up for a Successful Open Home
- Finish cleaning, decluttering & repairs
- Open curtains/blinds, turn on all lights
- Fresh flowers, air out home completely
- Hide valuables, secure pets safely
- Set up marketing materials & sign-in sheet
- Light scents (subtle!) or bake for welcoming aroma
Running Your Open Home
- Welcome buyers warmly and give them space to explore
- Highlight best features, answer questions honestly
- Collect contact details for follow-up
- Note buyer feedback and interest levels
- Stay professional—be positive, never oversell
- Keep track of visitor numbers and peak times
Negotiation Tips & Scripts
- Know your bottom line and ideal terms before offers arrive
- Don't rush—buyers expect some back-and-forth negotiation
- Stay calm and professional, even if offers are lower than hoped
- Be prepared to counter-offer, or ask for better terms
- Consider all conditions, not just price (settlement, chattels, finance)
Sample Script:
"Thank you for your offer. We're looking for a little more on price/sooner settlement. Would you consider...?"
"Thank you for your offer. We're looking for a little more on price/sooner settlement. Would you consider...?"
Script (multiple offers):
"We have strong interest and will review all offers by [date]. Please present your best terms."
"We have strong interest and will review all offers by [date]. Please present your best terms."
Handling Offers & Contracts
- Review all offer details: price, conditions, timelines
- Discuss with your agent or legal adviser if unsure
- Don't be afraid to negotiate or seek advice
- Get all agreements in writing—never verbal agreements only
- Consider deposit amounts and unconditional dates