Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

Occupied Home Open House Mastery: Expert Tips for Showcasing Your Home While Living In It

Home Selling Arielle Dixon December 10, 2024

Welcome to the world of open houses! If you're gearing up to sell your home but are still living in it, you might find yourself faced with the challenge of preparing for open houses while maintaining your day-to-day life. But fear not! With a bit of planning and organization, you can ensure that your occupied home is ready to impress potential buyers from the moment they walk through the door. Here are some expert tips to help you prepare your home for open houses while still living in it:

  1. Declutter and Depersonalize: Start by decluttering and depersonalizing your space to create a clean and neutral canvas that allows buyers to envision themselves living in your home. Pack away personal items, family photos, and excessive decor to help buyers focus on the features of your home rather than your personal belongings.

  2. Enhance Curb Appeal: First impressions matter, so don't neglect the exterior of your home. Boost curb appeal by tidying up the front yard, mowing the lawn, planting flowers, and adding a fresh coat of paint to the front door. A well-maintained exterior sets the stage for a positive showing experience.

  3. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: Make your home feel warm and inviting by adding touches like fresh flowers, soft lighting, and pleasant scents. Consider baking cookies or brewing coffee before the open house to fill your home with enticing aromas. Creating a welcoming atmosphere can help potential buyers feel at ease and emotionally connected to your home.

  4. Maximize Natural Light: Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light, which can make your home feel brighter, larger, and more inviting. Clean windows and light-colored curtains can further enhance the effect, creating an airy and spacious ambiance that appeals to buyers.

  5. Minimize Disruptions: During the open house, try to minimize disruptions to potential buyers by keeping noise levels down and temporarily relocating pets if possible. Consider scheduling open houses during times when you can be away from home to allow buyers to explore your space without feeling rushed or uncomfortable.

  6. Highlight Key Features: Showcase the best features of your home by strategically staging rooms and highlighting unique selling points. Whether it's a cozy fireplace, a newly renovated kitchen, or a spacious backyard, draw attention to these features to capture buyers' interest and imagination.

By following these tips and strategies, you can prepare your occupied home for open houses that leave a lasting impression on potential buyers. Remember to stay organized, flexible, and patient throughout the selling process, and trust that the right buyer will appreciate all that your home has to offer. Happy selling!

Recent Blog Posts

Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.

Corporate Relocation

When You Think of Real Estate, Think of Me—Anywhere in the World

Real estate is personal, emotional, and global. Wherever you are, I’m here to help you move forward—strategically and supported.

Landlords

The Real Estate Empire Behind the Golden Arches

How McDonald’s quietly became a $42 billion real estate powerhouse—and what investors can learn from it

Corporate Relocation

Luxury Relocation: Why Bay Area Executives Are Moving Smarter in 2025

How to Navigate a Cross-Country or International Move to California—Without Sacrificing Lifestyle, Timing, or Sanity

Home Buying

How Tariffs Are Reshaping the Housing Market

What Buyers and Sellers in California Need to Know Now

Housing Solutions

Is Spring the Best Time to Sell? A 2025 Market Snapshot

What 2025 Sellers Need to Know About Timing, Trends, and Getting Top Dollar in Today’s Market

Tips and Advice

The Real Value of Home Staging — And the Powerhouse Partners I Trust to Deliver It

Everything sellers need to know about home staging — from pricing and virtual options to the top-tier professionals I trust with my listings.

Home Buying

Homeownership With Student Loan Debt? I’m Living Proof It’s Possible.

Yes, you can buy a home while paying off student loans—and I’ll show you how to do it with strategy, support, and zero shame.

Tips and Advice

How to Buy a Distressed Property Without Losing Your Mind—or Your Money

Your step-by-step guide to navigating foreclosures, short sales, and REOs with confidence.

Distressed Sellers

California Mortgage Relief & Assistance Programs in 2025

How Struggling Homeowners Can Find Support and Avoid Foreclosure

WORK WITH ARIELLE

Arielle understands that buying or selling a home is an important decision that's about so much more than just the price tag, and she is fully committed to helping you achieve your real estate dreams, whatever they may be.