Blog by Betsy Carstairs

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OPEN HOUSE MIND SET

Of interest to me what is the public's perception of OPEN HOUSES. 2 weeks ago I held an OPEN HOUSE of one of my Burnaby listings. I had Gary Thomas help me as we correctly assumed there would be lots of visitors. We had just under 50 groups through, so YES there was LOTS OF INTEREST in this property. At the end of the weekend we were left empty handed with narry an offer. My client was most disappointed.

I was not surprised as my experience has shown me that people like to visit and revisit homes of interest. This generation of 30-40 year olds lead extremely busy lives AND schedules are planned well in advance. It can take time for them to fit home tours into their schedule. SO, it was with this home. The interest from the OPEN HOUSE had people coming back for a 2nd look over the next 2 weeks AND at the end of the 2 weeks we had an acceptable offer.

Unlike the media that hypes instant offers and bidding wars leaving the public to accept this as the norm - however, such is NOT the case for people purchasing homes that will consume up to half of their disposable income AND I am glad that people can take their time to make sure they are getting a home that fits their life style and pocketbook.