Open Houses vs. Virtual Tours
Open Houses vs. Virtual Tours
While open houses benefit real estate agents in terms of advertising, training new agents, and finding buyers for other properties, sellers reap fewer benefits. They have to tidy the house and leave it for the afternoon, and the likelihood of the home actually selling as a result of the open house is small.
Experts say agents should consider the security risks posed by an open house. Thieves could tag team and steal valuables if only one agent is on duty, and children could break or take things. Moreover, someone could slip or fall if snow or ice is present; and agents must acknowledge the risks open houses pose to their personal safety.
Some experts believe virtual tours offer a safer and more efficient alternative, especially since the National Association of REALTORS® says 74 percent of buyers look for homes via the Internet. Virtual tours stay open 24/7 and give buyers a good view of the interior, exterior, and the surrounding neighborhood. They also minimize the risk of theft or injury, and they can be shared with others via e-mail.
Source: "Open Houses: Weighing Risks Versus Rewards," NorthJersey.com (10/02/11)
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