19 Ways to Host a Fantastic Fall Open House

With all the things happening in the market right now it’s understandable that the fall market can seem a little daunting. Fall isn’t the busiest time in real estate at the best of times, but it can still prove successful for sellers who know how to leverage themselves. The change of seasons is a great opportunity to freshen up those open-house tactics that will set you apart from the competition.

In this post I’m going to share 19 tips and ideas to inspire your fall open house preparations specifically for the autumn season. These go above and beyond the things you should do to get your home ready at any time of the year.

CHOOSE A THEME

Most people like to make their homes cozy for fall, so they’ll be more likely to find a home attractive if it feels like their own. Incorporating festive decor is most successful when you pick one style and keep it consistent throughout the home:

1. Neutral country house
2. Fall harvest
3. Maple leaf

*Pumpkins are optional. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing that says ‘autumn’ more than this commercialized gourd, but it’s just so obvious. Remember, you want to stand out from your competition, not blend in. So if you’re going to use pumpkins use them sparingly as an accent to your theme, rather than the main focal point.

CREATE FESTIVE CURB APPEAL

The exterior is the first thing that prospects will take note of when they pull up to your fall open house. Consider utilizing the best parts of fall to create curb appeal that will entice buyers, and help them envision themselves in the home. 

4. Plant colourful, vibrant fall flowers, like mums and sunflowers
5. Highlight your front door with a simple wreath
6. Add a seasonal welcome mat or sign post
7. Provide weather appropriate props, like a boot brush and umbrella stand
8. Add outdoor lighting to light up pathways as the days get shorter
9. Don’t neglect leaf blowing and clear out your gutters regularly

BRING FALL SCENTS INDOORS

No one is immune to the nostalgic, quintessential smells of fall. Bringing these scents into your home will establish a consistent feeling of warmth and happiness!

10. Pumpkin and sweet vanilla – best for the kitchen
11. Apple orchard is a fantastic transition scent in September
12. Tobacco and patchouli for an earthy “just raked in the leaves” vibe
13. Freesia and pear is a universal winner (not too sweet, not too floral)

SEDUCE THEM WITH TREATS

It doesn’t need to be elaborate, but a spread of autumn-flavoured goodies are sure to entice people into your open house, and make them remember you.

14. Warm apple cider
15. Chocolate chip cookies (under a heat lamp to keep them gooey)
16. Homemade soft pretzel bites
17. Pecan pie bars
18. Colourful pumpkin sugar cookies
19. Local charcuterie served with artisan crackers and chutneys

KEEP IT READY TO SHOW

It may be a little inconvenient, but until you accept an offer, keep your home in tip-top shape at all times. What this means is that each room should have a clear purpose, nice flow and be clean and clutter-free. Buyers need to be able to picture themselves and their things in a room, and taking these steps will help ensure that.