Let's Meet Face-to-Face: Story of a Broker Open House, 7 Granite Rd., Townsend MA
I have a wonderful listing located at 7 Granite Rd., Townsend MA and my seller client requested that I hold a Broker Open House. Back when I started my real estate career 23 years ago, our office would attend Broker Open Houses every Tuesday and Thursday. It was a great way to see new listings, chat with area agents and ask the listing agent questions about the property.
How many of you remember when listings came out in a weekly book printed in black and white? With the technology we have available today, detailed property information is available via the internet/MLS, video tours are common and as many photos as you'd like are attached to the home description. It seems broker open houses have become a thing of the past in our area. The few I've done in the recent past were poorly attended and seemed a waste of time. I asked myself, "Why take the time to hold a broker open house if no one is going to come?"
Since the seller specifically wanted a broker open house, I decided to try some new ideas to increase the odds that the area agents would attend. I contacted a number of agents that also had listings in the area and suggested we have a "progressive open house". I also suggested that we offer food (what agent doesn't appreciate lunch?) and make that component "progressive" as well. For example, the first house offered appetizers, the second one offered salad, the third house offered lunch, etc. The last component of the Progressive Broker Open House was to send out a flyer advertising the event to all area agents. I also utilized the reverse prospecting email program to further promote the open house.
In this age of internet/computer technology, I find that sometimes I can complete a whole transaction and never meet the buyer or seller agent face-to-face. Much of our business is conducted via the tools we have available now and our interactions with area agents can very easily become email or phone based. Was having a broker open house old school? Perhaps, but I have to admit, it was very nice to get to know agents that I've spoken to over the phone but have never met face-to-face. It was also a nice way to reconnect with agents I haven't seen in awhile and they got to see my wonderful listing at 7 Granite Rd., Townsend MA!
It's easy to get immersed behind our computers. Find time to connect face-to-face. I'm glad I did!
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Integrity Residential Brokerage, licensed in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire, would be happy to assist you in your home buying or home selling needs. If you, or anyone you know, is considering buying or selling a property, Integrity Residential Brokerage located in Pepperell, MA, would love to hear from you! We strive to offer you the highest level of professional assistance possible making your desires and goals a reality.
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Catherine Condon, Broker MA & NH