The 7th Level Open House Strategy For Agents & Teams

What is a 7th Level Open House?

Origins: Gary Keller’s 7 Levels of a Real Estate Business

Note: You don’t need to be a big team to implement 7th Level Open Houses. Even solo agents can adopt this approach by using virtual assistants (VAs), lender partners, or automated tools as their “leverage.” We’ll discuss examples for both solo agents and teams later in this guide.

Traditional Open House vs. 7th Level Open House

• Marketing & Promotion: A traditional open house might get minimal marketing – perhaps a quick MLS entry and a Facebook post – and a few directional signs put out on the day. In contrast, a 7th Level Open House involves an all-out marketing blitz.
  
  Days in advance, you’re calling at least 100 neighbors, door-knocking the neighborhood, mailing or flyering invites, blasting the event on social media (maybe even boosting posts or running ads), and putting out lots of signs.
  
  One agent described their 7th Level Open House prep: “I call 100 people around the open house, door knock 100 homes, boost on social media, make videos, and put out extensive signage, plus advertise on hundreds of websites”. In short, the 7th Level approach means far more eyes on your event than a typical open house would ever get.
• Team Involvement: Traditionally, an open house is a solo endeavor – one agent sitting in the house, maybe with some flyers, doing it all. A 7th Level Open House is a team sport. You leverage others to help. This could mean bringing a lender or colleague to co-host, having an assistant manage the sign-in table, or enlisting newer agents to help greet and tour guests.
  
  If you’re a team leader, you might assign multiple team members specific roles (greeter, sign-in admin, floater to answer questions, etc.). Even if you’re solo, you can involve people: perhaps a virtual assistant to handle certain tasks remotely, or a showing partner to help on-site. The idea is that each person has a role so the agent isn’t juggling everything at once. And as a bonus, having more than one person present also improves safety and lets you comfortably handle a crowd.
• Visitor Experience: A basic open house might be quiet and straightforward – no special frills, maybe some bottled water and a sign-in sheet (if that). A 7th Level Open House, on the other hand, aims to create an experience. Think of it like hosting an event: You might have fresh baked cookies or refreshments, music playing, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages visitors to linger. You’ll use lots of directional signs (10, 20, even 40 signs, with balloons or flags) to generate buzz and make it look impossible to miss. (Source)
  
  You might even designate an early “neighbors-only” preview period or add a fun element (like a door prize raffle for those who sign in) to entice attendance. The goal is to make your open house feel like the place to be on a weekend afternoon – a lively, well-attended showcase, rather than a lonely sit-and-wait session.
• Lead Capture: In a traditional open house, capturing visitor information can be hit-or-miss. Some agents just leave a paper sign-in sheet (which many people skip or scribble illegibly), and if it’s a slow day, you might only get one or two contacts – or none at all. A 7th Level Open House treats lead capture as mission-critical.
  
  Every single visitor is kindly required to sign in before they tour the home. To make this smooth, agents use digital tools like Showable, or at least a QR code check-in system, instead of relying on pen and paper. For example, Showable can capture not just names and numbers but also automatically send follow-up emails for you.
  
  If technology isn’t your thing, even a well-managed iPad sign-in or a stationed assistant can ensure you don’t miss anyone. The difference is huge: a well-executed mega open house might yield dozens of contacts in your database, whereas a traditional open house might net only a couple. Every visitor = a future lead, so in the 7th Level model you’ll have systems to capture and tag them properly on the spot.
• Follow-Up: Perhaps the biggest difference comes after the open house. In the traditional scenario, follow-up is often an afterthought – an agent might make a few calls the next day (if they have time) or send a generic “thanks for coming” email, but many leads fall through the cracks.
  
  In a 7th Level Open House, the follow-up process is planned in advance and largely automated so no lead gets left behind. All those new contacts go straight into your CRM (Customer Relationship Management system) with appropriate labels, and they immediately get hit with value-add follow-ups.
  
  For instance, you might have an action plan that sends a thank-you email that same evening, a text message with a link to the listing or a survey, and then schedules a phone call task for the next day. Modern CRMs like Follow Up Boss or kvCORE allow you to trigger these kinds of smart campaigns automatically.
  
  The idea is to respond while the interest is hot and then continue to nurture each lead over time. In short, a traditional open house might end when the door closes, but a 7th Level Open House is just beginning – the attendees are now part of your pipeline, and you’ll cultivate those relationships into appointments and clients through systematic follow-up.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Run a 7th Level Open House

1. Planning Ahead: Select the Right House and Date

2. Leverage Your Entire Real Estate Team

• Invite a lender partner to co-host. Lenders are often happy to join you – they can pre-qualify interested buyers on the spot and they benefit from meeting leads too. They might bring snacks or sponsor some marketing in exchange for the exposure.
• Ask a colleague or new agent to help out. Maybe there’s an agent in your office who’d love to observe and help in exchange for learning your system. They can act as a greeter or help with tours.
• Use a Virtual Assistant (VA) for behind-the-scenes tasks. A VA can’t physically greet people, but they could help by handling the digital side – monitoring an online sign-in form, rapidly emailing out info to attendees, or updating your CRM in real-time. They could also be sending you any urgent info via text (for example, if someone signs in with a comment that they have no agent and need one ASAP, your VA flags it so you give that person extra attention).

3. Marketing Prep: How To Promote Your Open House

• MLS and Online Listings: Make sure the open house is posted everywhere online. If it’s your listing, update the MLS with the open house details (date/time) right away so sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, etc., pick it up. If it’s not your listing, coordinate with the listing agent to get that done.
  
  Beyond MLS, consider posting on open house directories or your brokerage’s website if applicable. Some agents even create a dedicated landing page or use a tool like Showable to create a microsite for the event.
• Signage Blitz: Plan for many more signs than a typical open house. The general rule for a mega open house is the more signs, the merrier. Aim for at least 10 directional signs, or even 20+ if you can, placed at strategic intersections leading to the property.
  
  Put them out early – some agents place signs the evening before or the morning of the open house to start catching attention. Include balloons, flags, or feather banners to draw the eye. You want drivers and neighbors to think, “Whoa, something big is happening over there!”
  
  Pro tip: Check local sign ordinances and always get permission when placing signs on someone’s lawn or a common area. After the event, promptly remove all signs (and send a thank-you note to any neighbor who let you borrow their corner.
• Neighbor Invitations (Circle Prospecting): One hallmark of a 7th Level Open House is actively engaging the local community beforehand. Beginning a few days out (or the week prior), start calling and/or door-knocking the immediate neighborhood to personally invite residents to the open house. Focus on the closest 50-100 homes.
  
  You might say something like: “Hi, this is [Your Name] with [Your Brokerage]. I just wanted to let you know I’m hosting an Open House at [Address] this Sunday from 1–4 PM, and I’d love for you to stop by. Please feel welcome to come take a look – and feel free to invite any friends or family who might be interested in the neighborhood!”
  
  Keep it friendly and no-pressure; you’re offering the neighbor a VIP invite. Some agents even host a special “Neighbors Only” preview for the first 30 minutes of the open house, sometimes with coffee and pastries, to make the neighbors feel appreciated and curious.
  
  The benefit is two-fold: neighbors might know potential buyers and some of them could be thinking of selling in the future (hello, listing leads!). 
  
  One agent suggests inviting neighbors “as if it was a social event” and encouraging them to invite others – make it sound fun!
• Flyers & Direct Mail: If time and budget permit, print up a simple open house flyer and distribute it. This could mean mailing postcards to the neighborhood or just dropping printed flyers at doors when you do your door-knocking. Your flyer should highlight the property but also clearly state the open house date/time and that all are welcome.
  
  Pro tip: On your flyer or postcard, consider adding something like “Join us for refreshments and a chance to win a gift card!” – a small incentive can boost attendance.
  
  Also, include a note like “Thinking of selling? Come chat with us about your home’s value” – signaling that you’re available to talk to potential seller leads too.
  
  Remember to follow any MLS or brokerage rules about advertising another agent’s listing, if applicable – usually adding “courtesy of [Listing Brokerage]” or similar small print if you’re advertising someone else’s listing. But generally, hosting permission covers basic promotion.
• Email Blast to Your Database: Don’t forget your existing contacts. Send a targeted email to your sphere and past clients announcing the open house – even if they’re not looking to buy that specific home, it’s a touchpoint that shows you’re actively working the market. They might forward it to someone who is looking. 
  
  Also, email any leads in your CRM who have searched for similar homes (if you have that data). The email should have attractive photos, the key details, and an invitation to come “meet me at the open house.” This highlights your hustle and could even re-spark an old lead who isn’t interested in that house but realizes you’re an agent worth talking to.
• Social Media & Online Ads: Leverage Facebook, Instagram, and even Nextdoor for all they’re worth. Create an event on Facebook and invite your friends/followers, post on your business page, and share in local community groups (if allowed). On Instagram, put photos or a video tour in your Story leading up to the event, and use local hashtags (e.g., #YourTownOpenHouse).
  
  Go deeper: 25 Open House Social Media Post Ideas To Skyrocket Attendance
  
  If you’re comfortable on video, do a quick teaser walking through the house or pointing out a great feature, then promote that video. Some agents will do a short Facebook Live or Instagram Live the morning of the open house as a final promo push.
  
  Additionally, consider boosting a Facebook post or running a targeted ad for a few days – you can target people living within a radius of the property, or likely movers in your area. Even a $20–$30 ad budget can significantly increase the visibility of your open house.
• Other Outreach: Think creatively. Share the open house info with other local agents (they might have buyers; plus it’s good agent-to-agent marketing for you). If your area has broker caravans or office meetings, announce it there.
  
  You could also partner with a local business for cross-promotion – for example, a nearby coffee shop might let you put a flyer by the register, or you could invite a bakery to provide cookies at your open house in exchange for promoting their business to the attendees.
  
  The key is saturation: by the time your open house arrives, the neighborhood and your target audience should have heard about it multiple times in multiple ways.

4. Logistics: Prepare Your Open House Materials and Systems

• Open House Sign-In System: Decide how you will capture visitor info. As mentioned, a digital sign-in is recommended. Showable's digital open house sign in tool allow visitors to sign in on a tablet or their phone. It offers a QR code sign-in – you display a QR code at the door, visitors scan it with their phone and fill in their details.
  
  This eliminates hard-to-read handwriting and feels modern. If you use a digital method, test it beforehand! Make sure your iPad or tablet is charged and the app is working (and have a paper sign-in sheet as backup in case tech fails or if some older visitors prefer paper).
  
  If you do use paper, print several sign-in sheets on a clipboard and have pens ready at the entry. Stand by to politely insist everyone signs in (“for the seller’s security,” you can say, or “to ensure we have an accurate visitor count”).
  
  Pro tip: If using an app, connect it to your CRM in advance. For instance, Spacio and Showable both integrate with popular CRMs. That way, new contacts flow straight into your database without manual entry.
• Flyers & Info Packets: Prepare a flyer or info sheet about the property to hand out. This is standard, but a 7th Level Open House might also include some extra handouts. Consider a “Home Buyer’s Guide” or “Neighborhood Market Report” booklet that you can give to buyers who come through – it showcases your expertise and gives them something of value to take home (with your branding on it, of course).
  
  Also have any required disclosure forms ready (agency disclosures, property disclosures) if your state mandates handing those to buyers at open houses. If you expect a lot of visitors, print plenty of copies (better to have leftovers than to run out mid-event).
  
  One KW script suggests bringing at least 20 copies of consumer notices, a few agency contracts, seller disclosures, etc., in an “open house kit” – essentially being prepared with all paperwork that might be needed.
• Signs and Accessories: Gather all the directional signs, plus things like balloons or flags. Bring tape or string for balloons, stakes for signs, etc. Also grab your open house yard sign (the one that goes on the property’s lawn) if the listing doesn’t already have one. 
  
  Pro tip: A day or two before, scout the area for sign placement – note where you’ll put each sign to lead drivers from main roads to the house. On the day, as you place each sign, double-check it’s secure and visible, and not violating any rules (avoid blocking sidewalks, etc.).
• Personal Essentials: Treat it like a mini event – bring a small folding table or stand for the sign-in if the house doesn’t have an obvious entry table. Have a guest register (physical or digital) ready. Pack your car with necessities: extra pens, notepad (to jot down specific feedback or questions), a flashlight (if any dark corners or in case you have to check an attic or breaker), a phone charger, and maybe a Bluetooth speaker for soft background music.
  
  Also consider safety items: if you’re alone, have a personal alarm or at least ensure someone knows where you are. Many agents also carry a small first aid kit, tissues, hand sanitizer, etc.
  
  And of course, don’t forget your business cards – lots of them. You might set a stack by the sign-in or hand them out personally to each visitor along with the flyer.
• Home Prep & Staging: If it’s your listing, ensure the home is clean, staged nicely, and all lights work. If it’s not your listing, coordinate with the listing agent or seller about any special instructions (Do you need to remove shoes? Are there pets to worry about? etc.). 
  
  On the day of, bring some basic staging supplies: a few tasteful props or decor items can help if the house is empty (even a vase of flowers on the kitchen counter). At minimum, bring a trash bag in case you need to discretely toss any clutter or garbage you find when you arrive. 
  
  Little touches: open curtains/blinds to let light in, turn on all lamps, maybe set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. If allowed, lighting a gently scented candle or having a fresh-baked cookie smell (the classic trick) can create a nice ambiance – just be sure to ask the homeowner first and avoid allergens.

5. Execution: The Day of the Open House

• Signs First: If you weren’t able to place all your directional signs earlier, do it now. Ideally, have a partner handle this while you prep the house, or vice versa. Double-check any signs placed earlier are still in position (wind or neighbors could have displaced them).
• Home Walk-Through: Unlock the house (if you’re borrowing a listing, make sure you have the lockbox info or e-key ready. As you enter, announce yourself loudly (“Realtor entering!”) – this is courteous in case the owner or another agent is around. 
  
  Go through each room quickly: turn on lights, open interior doors, make sure everything looks presentable. If something’s off (a burned-out light, a pet odor, etc.), handle it if you can (maybe open a window briefly). Ensure any valuables or personal items are out of sight – remove things like mail or prescription bottles from countertops (also a security step). 
  
  If the house is vacant, set up anything you brought (e.g., your flowers or snacks). Safety check: verify all exits are accessible and that you can easily lock/unlock the front door as needed. If weather is nice, you might open a few windows for fresh air (just remember to close/lock them after).
• Staging & Atmosphere: Place your flyers and handouts neatly on the dining table or kitchen counter. If you have a sign-in table, set that up right at the entry or front door area. Some agents put an extra “Please Sign In” sign or even a small rope/stand to funnel people to the entry table first.
  
  Start any background music (keep it low volume, instrumental is safest). Put out refreshments if you have them (pro tip: individually wrapped cookies or bottles of water are cleaner and easier than a communal dish).
  
  Finally, do a quick curb appeal scan – maybe sweep the front step or wipe the door if needed (you’d be surprised what cobwebs show up). You want that first impression to be excellent.
• Team Huddle: If you have helpers, gather them for a quick briefing before doors open. Recap roles (“You’ll be at the door greeting, I’ll float and answer questions…”), confirm what info to collect (e.g., if someone is a neighbor vs a buyer, note that in their sign-in), and go over any scripts or key points. 
  
  For instance, remind the team how to answer common questions or how to deflect if someone tries to corner them about the price (“Great question – let me grab [the host] who has all the details for you”). Make sure everyone’s phone is on silent and that they know where important things are (bathroom location, where you put the extra flyers, etc.). This pre-game pep talk ensures everyone’s on the same page and feels confident.

During the Open House (Engage & Lead Capture):

• Warm Welcome & Sign-In: As visitors start arriving, greet each person at the door with a smile. Introduce yourself and any co-host (“Hi, welcome! I’m Alex, the listing agent – and this is Jamie from XYZ Mortgage who’s joining me today.”). Immediately direct them to sign in: for example, “Before we begin, please sign in here – the owners have asked that everyone registers.”
  
  Having a subtle reason like that often helps compliance. If using an app or tablet, hand it to them or point to the QR code sign. If you have a greeter assigned, they can handle ensuring every group signs in. Don’t be shy about this step – it’s standard practice in 7th Level Open Houses that 100% of visitors sign in.
  
  Remember, no sign-in, no entry (politely enforced). Most people will understand since it’s for “security and feedback purposes.”
• Brief Property Intro: After sign-in, give each group a 15-30 second “highlight reel” about the home to set the stage. For example: “Feel free to explore! Just so you know, this home has 4 beds, 2.5 baths, and was remodeled in 2022 – check out that kitchen, it’s gorgeous. The backyard also has a new deck. Let me know if you have questions on anything!” 
  
  This orienting statement gives them some context and something to look for. It also establishes you as knowledgeable and attentive. Keep it very short – you don’t want to hover too much yet.
• Let Them Browse (But Stay Attentive): Allow visitors to walk around at their own pace. It’s usually best not to follow people closely (that can be off-putting). Instead, position yourself or your team strategically so you can keep an eye on the flow. If you have multiple staff, one can stay near the entrance, another can float between main rooms.
  
  The goal is to be available for questions and also to subtly gather intel. For instance, you or your co-host might strike up light conversation: “So, are you house-hunting in the area or just stopping by?” Their answer (e.g., “We live nearby” vs “We’re looking for a 4-bedroom”) will tell you if they are neighbors, serious buyers, just browsing, etc. Jot down notes on your notepad or directly into the sign-in app if it allows (some apps let you add notes per visitor).
  
  Related: How Long Should An Open House Be?
  
  

  

• Use Scripts to Engage & Capture Leads: This is where your preparation in scripts pays off. As you talk to visitors, have a few go-to questions or offers that naturally lead to getting their contact info and permission to follow up. For example:
  • “Are you working with an agent?” – If no, that’s a green light to offer your help. If yes, note it (and out of courtesy, if they have an agent, you may follow up differently or not at all beyond a thank-you, depending on your market norms).
  • “What do you think of the price/condition?” – This invites opinions and gets them talking. If they start discussing what they’re looking for, you’ve got an opening to suggest other homes.
  • “Would you like me to keep you updated on this home? I can let you know what it ends up selling for.” – This is an excellent script from KW training. Many visitors love to know the final sale price. If they say yes, you have a perfect reason to follow up (and you’ve essentially gotten their consent). “Great, I’ll shoot you a quick text or email when it sells.” If they say no, follow with the next one…
  • “No worries. If another home comes up in this neighborhood, would you like me to let you know?” – Often people will say yes to this even if they were lukewarm on the current house. That means you can contact them about future listings – a huge lead for your pipeline.
  • “We actually have a couple other listings in the area. After this, I’m going to preview another open house down the street at 3 PM – you’re welcome to join me there if you’d like to see a different style home.” – This is a bold, advanced tactic, but it can work magic. 
    
    It positions you as the knowledgeable agent who can show them more options, and if they bite, you basically set an appointment on the spot to see another home (which might not even be your listing, but you can certainly show it if it’s open to the public). 
    
    Even if they decline, you can then ask, “May I have your cell number in case anything changes or I find another similar home? I’d hate for you to miss out” – another way to ensure you have good contact info.
  • “What’s your timeline for moving? Any deadlines or are you just looking casually?” – Their answer will tell you how hot a prospect they are. If someone says “Our lease is up next month” or “We’ve sold our house and need to buy ASAP,” you know to prioritize them in follow-up. If it’s “Oh, maybe next year,” you’ll put them on a longer-term nurture plan.
• Remember to be conversational, not like an interrogator. You might not ask every question to every person – feel out the situation. The key is offering something of value in return for their info (updates, a list of other homes, a chance to see something, market knowledge).
  
  That makes the follow-up feel helpful, not pushy. As Keller Williams coaches often say, come from contribution. For instance, providing a “list of available homes in the area” is a great value-add – one agent noted they always have ready “a list of other available homes in the area to give out” to open house visitors. This naturally leads to, “I can email this list to you as well so you have the links – what’s the best email for you?” Boom, lead captured.
• Manage Crowds Gracefully: If you did your marketing job, you might have periods where multiple groups arrive at once. Don’t panic – this is a good problem! If you’re solo and overwhelmed, prioritize greeting and sign-in for everyone first.
  
  You can say, “Hi folks, come on in! Please each of you sign in here and grab a flyer. I’ll be with you in just a moment.” If you’re tied up answering one person’s question and see others coming, politely excuse yourself: “I’m sorry, let me greet these new guests and I’ll answer that in a sec.” Most people understand.
  
  If you have a team, coordinate signals or eye contact to trade off visitors. The main thing is no one should leave without signing in and getting at least a hello. If the house becomes genuinely packed, you might station one person upstairs and one downstairs to direct traffic and be available. 
  
  Keep an eye on safety and the property too – with big crowds, occasionally an unscrupulous person might try to slip into a bedroom alone (uninvited) or take something. Stay alert and periodically walk through all rooms.
• Handle Neighbors vs. Buyers Differently: If someone identifies as a neighbor (not looking to buy, just curious), treat them warmly – they could be a seller lead. Often neighbors want to know the price and how the turnout is. Give them a positive update: “We’ve had a great response so far!” and maybe ask, “How long have you lived in the area?” 
  
  This can segue into them talking about their own situation (you might discover they’re considering upsizing or downsizing). Be sure to capture their info too – say you’ll send them the final sale price or invite them to future neighborhood events. Neighbors can become some of your best leads for listings if nurtured. On your sign-in, you might even have a checkbox for “I’m a neighbor just visiting” – so you can tag them appropriately in your CRM later.
• Provide Value, Not Pressure: A 7th Level Open House isn’t about hard-selling the house to every visitor; it’s about building relationships. You want guests to leave with a good impression of you, whether or not the house was a fit. Answer questions honestly, if you don’t know something say you’ll find out (and then make that a follow-up point).
  
  If someone shows interest in the house, of course, give them full attention – they might want to submit an offer, which is great. But recognize many attendees won’t buy this house; your success is measured in new connections. So focus on being helpful and friendly.
  
  One agent put it nicely: “Most customers may not purchase the home you are showing, but they might choose YOU because of the way you treated them”. That’s the mentality – you’re auditioning to be their agent, not pushing this product.
• Keep Notes: Throughout the open house, scribble quick notes about promising leads. For example, on your sign-in sheet or app notes: “Smith family – relocating from out of state, needs 4br, no agent” or “Jane (neighbor) – thinking of selling in spring, follow up in a month.”
  
  These notes will be gold when you follow up, so you can personalize your approach. If using a digital app that doesn’t allow notes, use a notebook or the Notes app on your phone. Just ensure it’s secure later (don’t leave a notebook of private info behind).
• Stay for the Full Time (and a Little More): Don’t shut down early even if it’s slow. Sometimes the last visitor of the day is the best lead – or an unhurried neighbor who finally wanders over for a chat. If you advertised 1:00–4:00, stay open the whole time. 
  
  In fact, it’s polite to stay a few minutes past, as occasionally people show up right at the end. Those stragglers might apologize for being late – make them feel welcome, not like an inconvenience. And who knows, that 3:59pm walk-in might turn into a sale next month.

• Secure the Property: If it’s not your listing, ensure you leave the house as you found it. Turn off lights, close windows, lock all doors. If the seller is coming home right after, you might leave a note or text them a thank-you and brief report (“15 groups came through, lots of positive comments!”). 
  
  If it’s your listing, you’ll be giving feedback to your seller soon, but still tidy up. Don’t forget to pick up your sign-in sheets or ensure your tablet is with you. Also collect any remaining flyers or trash from refreshments – you don’t want the homeowner to find a mess.
• Gather Your Signs: Very important – go retrieve all your directional signs from around the neighborhood (unless local custom allows leaving them for a later open house). Leaving signs out can annoy neighbors or violate rules, so do a thorough sweep. It’s also just good branding to not litter the area with forgotten signs.
• Debrief with Team: If you had co-hosts or helpers, do a quick recap once you’re out: How many people roughly came? Any hot prospects they noted? Exchange notes or impressions. Thank them for their help, maybe plan to debrief more later or treat them to coffee. This also solidifies the lessons – what went well, what to improve next time.

6. Post-Open House: Follow-Up and Pipeline Building

• Organize the Data: As soon as you can (that evening or first thing next morning), consolidate all the sign-in data. If you used a digital app that’s integrated to your CRM, check that all contacts properly synced over. If you have to import from a CSV or enter manually (like from paper sheets), do it promptly while the info is fresh. Include any notes you jotted down about each lead’s situation. 
  
  Tag or categorize the contacts in your CRM (e.g., “Open House – 123 Main St – 7/12/2025” and tags like “buyer” or “neighbor” or “hot lead”). This will help you segment follow-ups and track the effectiveness of this event.
• Send a Thank-You Message: It’s a classy touch to send a quick thank-you to everyone who came. This can be automated or manual. Many agents prepare a template email and a template text to send out in bulk (personalized with first names via CRM).
  
  For example: “Hi [Name], thanks for visiting 123 Main St today! I enjoyed meeting you. Please let me know if you have any questions about the home or the neighborhood. Happy to help anytime.”
  
  Keep it short and genuine. If you promised to send them something (like “I’ll email you the HOA info” or “I’ll send you some other listings that fit your needs”), make sure to include that or at least mention it’s coming soon.
  
  Modern CRM systems or open house apps can automate this step – e.g., Showable will automatically handle follow-up emails for you. But even if it’s automated, make sure it doesn’t sound robotic. Personalize where appropriate (especially for those A-level leads you identified).
• Update the Listing Agent/Seller: If you were hosting an open house for someone else’s listing, send them a courteous update. A quick email or text listing the number of groups that came and any notable feedback.
  
  Example: “We had about 20 groups through. A few people loved the backyard; one couple felt the price was a bit high; another neighbor said they might have a friend looking soon. I’ll send you the complete sign-in list. Thanks for the opportunity to host!” 
  
  This not only is professional, but it also sets you up as a diligent agent in the eyes of that listing agent (could lead to more hosting opportunities or referrals).

• Prioritize Hot Leads: Identify the hottest prospects from your sign-ins – these are people who showed strong buying or selling signals (e.g., “no agent, needs to buy soon” or that neighbor who said they’re thinking of selling). Call these people within 24-48 hours personally.
  
  The conversation is straightforward: you thank them for coming, ask if they have any further interest or questions about the property, and then pivot to their needs.
  
  For buyers: “I know this house might not have been a perfect fit for you; I have a good sense of what you’re looking for now – would it be okay if I sent you a couple other listings that match what you described?”
  
  For neighbors/potential sellers: “It was great to meet you. Like I promised, I’ll keep you posted on what 123 Main sells for. By the way, have you had any thoughts about your own real estate plans? I’d be happy to keep you updated on the market or even provide a quick home value report for you.”
  
  Don’t push too hard; just open the door. The goal is to set an appointment (a buyer consultation, a listing appointment, or at least a follow-up call) if they’re ready. If not, schedule them for a later check-in and enter that in your task list.
  
  Related: How Long Do Buyers Wait To Make An Offer
• Activate Smart Drip Campaigns: For all those leads that are not immediate, put them on an appropriate nurture campaign in your CRM. For instance:
  • Buyers go on a “Open House Buyer Follow-up” smart campaign – which could be a series of emails over a few weeks offering home search tips, list of current homes for sale, etc., plus perhaps text check-ins. Your CRM (like Follow Up Boss or others) can trigger these automatically. The key is that they hear from you consistently, so when they’re ready, you are top of mind.
  • Neighbors (potential sellers) go on a long-term homeowner nurture – maybe a monthly neighborhood market update email, and a quarterly personal check-in call. You might tag them as “farm” or “seller lead – from open house”.
  • Anybody who requested a specific thing (e.g., “send me the CMA” or “wife couldn’t come, send the virtual tour”) – handle those within a day, and then keep them on follow-up.
• Automation is your friend here. As one open house tech article noted, “Automation works best when your leads are routed into a good CRM like Follow Up Boss, kvCORE, or Chime – so you can trigger smart campaigns, track engagement, and keep everything organized.” 
  
  In other words, let the system send emails and reminders, while you focus on the personal calls and high-value activities. This is how a solo agent can follow up like a team – the computer does the repetitive stuff, you do the human stuff.
• Set Tasks for Personal Touches: Beyond automated content, schedule yourself to make periodic personal touches. For example, set a task to call every open house lead one week later (“Hi, just checking if you’ve seen any homes you liked since we met at 123 Main? How’s your search going?”). 
  
  And another task a month later, etc., depending on their timeline. Persistence is key. If someone told you “we’re 6 months out,” then maybe a task every month or two to check in or send something useful (like an invite to another open house or a market report) is appropriate. 
  
  Consistency over time will turn a lot of “maybe” leads into deals. You’re building a relationship, not just chasing a one-time sale.
• Add to Listing Alerts (for Buyers): For those who were actively looking and not working with another agent, set them up on your MLS or website’s home search alerts matching their criteria. This keeps them coming back to you as a resource. It can often be automated too – many CRMs can send daily or weekly new listing emails tailored to the client’s needs. 
  
  Imagine them getting an email from you two days after the open house with “New homes for sale in [area] under $500k” – even if it’s automated, it’s providing value and keeps you in the loop.
• Reflection and Tracking: Finally, take a moment to evaluate the event. How many leads did you get? How many were “hot,” “warm,” or “cold”? Note what marketing sources seemed to drive people (did many mention seeing it on Facebook, or was it mostly neighbors from door-knocking?). If you have the ability, enter these metrics in a spreadsheet or your CRM’s deal tracker. 
  
  Over time, as you do more 7th Level Open Houses, you’ll start seeing patterns and improving your system. Some agents find that these mega open houses significantly boost their lead conversion. For example, one team reported increasing open house lead conversion by 45% after standardizing and automating their process.
  
  The proof will be in your results – maybe you set a goal like, “I want 2 new client appointments from each open house.” Track it and see if you hit it, and analyze what you could tweak to do even better next time.

Adapting 7th Level Open Houses for Solo Agents And Teams

• Leverage Virtual Assistants (VAs): You can hire a part-time VA (even overseas for cost efficiency) to handle tasks like designing the open house flyer, posting your social media ads, pulling the list of 100 neighbor phone numbers for you to call, or even doing the follow-up emails afterward. 
  
  For example, you could have a VA use a service like Cole Realty Resource or neighborhood data to get phone numbers and make the initial invitation calls or send texts to neighbors (if legally permissible). 
  
  During the open house, a VA could monitor the sign-ins coming in via your app and immediately input notes or send out the thank-you emails while you’re still talking to guests. Think of a VA as your behind-the-scenes admin that makes you look superhuman.
• Use Showing Partners or Lender Co-Hosts: If you don’t have a team, you can still have a “team” for the day of the event. Invite a newer agent from your brokerage to be your unofficial showing partner for that open house – they gain experience and a portion of any leads, and you gain an extra set of hands.
  
  Or lean on affiliate partners: as mentioned, lenders, title reps, or even a home inspector you trust could come and be an extra resource person. A solo agent in Phoenix cited that by using an automated system for sign-ins and follow-ups, she “doubled her follow-up rate and tripled her client appointments in 60 days” – essentially competing with larger teams because the tech/automation did a lot of heavy lifting. So, a single agent absolutely can pull this off.
• Focus on Systems: Since you can’t be in two places at once, prioritize what needs you physically and systematize the rest. For instance, you personally door-knocking 100 homes may be impractical alone; instead, you might door-knock 20 key ones and then send postcards to the rest or run a targeted Facebook ad to that neighborhood. 
  
  If you can’t call 100 people, maybe call 20 and use an auto-dialer or slide broadcast voicemail for the others. Use your CRM’s automation to send mass invitations and follow-ups so you can focus on the high-quality conversations. Over time, as your pipeline grows, you might actually form a small team – perhaps hiring an assistant or a showing agent – but even before that, the tech can amplify your solo efforts.

• Standardize the System: Create a checklist (you can use the one at the end of this guide) and make it part of your team’s training. Each time one of your agents hosts an open house, they should follow the “7th Level” protocol. 
  
  As a team leader, you could even require that any open house gets a minimum prep (e.g., “at least 20 calls, 10 signs out, 1 email blast, etc.”) so that the team’s time is used effectively. Some brokerages have done this office-wide – providing agents with “ready-to-go” templates and checklists to ensure consistent branding and success at open houses.
• Assign Roles to Team Members: On a larger team, you might have specialization. For example, your inside sales agent (ISA) could be the one making the 100 circle prospecting calls to neighbors a few days before. Your marketing assistant might handle the social media promotion and printing materials. 
  
  On the event day, perhaps two junior agents staff the open house while you, the team lead, drop by to meet high-priority guests or just let the team take the reins. You might rotate which team members host each weekend and encourage them to partner up for safety and efficiency. 
  
  By appointing roles within your team so every important part has someone accountable you ensure nothing falls through the cracks. It also delegates tasks to the appropriate people rather than one person doing it all.
• Leverage Volume: With a team, you might scale up to multiple 7th Level Open Houses on the same day. For instance, if you have 3 listings, you could run 3 open houses simultaneously with different team agents – each following the playbook. Your team’s ISA might then have to do triple the follow-up calls Monday, but that’s a good problem to have. Just make sure each open house’s leads are clearly assigned to the agent who met them or to a round-robin system to avoid confusion. 
  
  Also, as a leader, monitor the results: some agents on your team might need coaching on conversion if they get plenty of leads but no appointments. Debrief in team meetings: “What worked best? How many leads? What could we improve next time?”
• Team Culture and Brand: Mega open houses can also be a branding opportunity for your team. Use team-branded signs and matching shirts or name tags during the event so attendees see a cohesive group. Maybe have two of your agents do a live stream from the open house and introduce the team on social media (“Meet the team at our open house extravaganza!”). This shows that your team is active and dominant in the area. 
  
  If you have the resources, you could even turn a mega open house into a mini block party – e.g., your team brings a taco truck or an ice cream stand for a “free treat for attendees” and invites the whole neighborhood. It sounds extravagant, but teams have done this to great effect in tight-knit communities (just ensure it aligns with your budget and likely ROI).
• Accountability on Follow-Up: Ensure your team has a system so those leads aren’t lost. If you, as the leader, have access to the master CRM, you can see how many leads came in and monitor that follow-ups are being completed.
  
  Some team leaders set up automations where, say, if an agent hasn’t contacted an open house lead within 2 days, the ISA or even the leader gets an alert or the lead is reassigned. That might be overkill depending on your leadership style, but the point is to keep the standard high – a 7th Level Open House followed by 2nd level follow-up is a waste. Hold your team (and yourself) accountable to capitalize on every name on that sign-in sheet.

7th Level Open House Checklist

Before the Open House (Week Prior) 

• ✅ Choose the Property & Date: Select an attractive listing (new or high-appeal) and schedule the open house (coordinate with seller/listing agent).
• ✅ Secure Helpers: Arrange for any co-hosts (team members, lender, etc.) or virtual assistants to assist. Assign roles and tasks to each.
• ✅ Update Listings: Add open house date/time to MLS (so Zillow, etc. show it). Create an event page or single-property site if desired.
• ✅ Marketing Blast:
  • Neighbor Outreach – Call and/or door-knock the surrounding homes (aim for 50-100 contacts) to personally invite them. Consider a “neighbors-only” preview time.
  • Print flyers/postcards – Deliver or mail invites to the neighborhood by mid-week.
  • Email – Send an announcement to your database and any targeted buyer leads.
  • Social Media – Post on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Nextdoor, etc. Boost key posts to target audiences.
  • Ads – Optional: Run a short FB/IG ad or Google ad for the open house (target locally).
  • Sign Rider – If possible, add an “Open House Sun 1-4” rider on the for-sale sign out front to catch drive-by interest.
• ✅ Signage Plan: Map out locations for directional signs (intersections, main roads). Prepare at least 10-15 signs (or more!) plus balloons/flags. Check any HOA or city rules on signs.
• ✅ Lead Capture Setup: Choose your sign-in method (app, Google form QR code, or paper). Test your tech (login, integration with CRM). Print backup sign-in sheets just in case.
• ✅ Follow-Up Prep: Set up an action plan in your CRM for follow-up (emails/texts template, etc.), so it’s ready to trigger after the open house.

Day Before the Open House 

• ✅ Confirm with Seller/Listing Agent: Ensure the home will be available, cleaned, and ready. Get access info (lockbox combo, alarm codes) and any last-minute instructions.
• ✅ Prepare Materials: Print plenty of property flyers and any extra handouts (buyer guides, neighborhood market stats, etc.). Assemble your Open House Kit: sign-in forms/tablet, business cards, notepad, pens, booties for shoes (if needed), snacks/drinks, speaker for music, hand sanitizer, and any decor (balloons, etc.). Don’t forget charging cables and batteries.
• ✅ Remind and Promote: Post a reminder on social media about the open house tomorrow. Send a reminder email or text to any who showed interest. If using a VA or ISA, have them make a final round of calls or texts to neighbors (“Hope to see you tomorrow!”).
• ✅ Place Early Signs (Optional): If allowed and safe, you can put some signs out the night before (especially at hard-to-reach spots) – just ensure they’re secure and won’t disappear overnight.

Open House Day – Before Start 

• ✅ Early Arrival: Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before start (earlier if lots of setup needed).
• ✅ Deploy Signs: Put out all directional signs leading to the home. Attach balloons or flags for visibility. Double-check placement (no illegal spots).
• ✅ Stage the Home: Unlock and walk through the house: turn on lights, open curtains, set thermostat to comfy temp. Tidy any clutter. Place sign-in station at entry. Set up refreshments or music as planned. Ensure each room is presentable (toilet seats down, etc.).
• ✅ Safety Check: Make sure doors you don’t want visitors using are locked (like back door, if you want them to exit front). Identify all exits. If alone, have a safety plan (keep phone on you, maybe text someone that you’re starting the open house).
• ✅ Team Huddle: Brief any co-hosts/helpers on roles and information (property highlights, price, answers to common Qs). Make sure everyone has notepaper to jot lead info and is clear on sign-in procedure for guests. Quick morale boost – this will be great!

Open House – During Event 

• ✅ Warm Welcome: Greet every visitor at the door. Require sign-in (paper or digital) from each group – no exceptions
  alignable.com. Hand out flyers after sign-in.
• ✅ Introduce the Home: Give a brief overview to each group (“This is a 4-bed, 2-bath with updated kitchen, enjoy your tour!”). Point out any special features or guide flow (“The finished basement is worth checking out!”).
• ✅ Engage in Conversation: Use your scripts to talk with visitors. Ask questions like: “What brings you out today – are you house hunting?” Tailor your approach if they are neighbors vs. buyers.
  
  Offer information: “Can I send you the comp list for this neighborhood?”, “Would you like updates on this home’s sale?” and so on – to collect permission to follow up.
• ✅ Note Lead Info: As you identify someone’s needs (e.g., needs an agent, has a home to sell, likes this house, etc.), write it down! Either on their sign-in entry or a separate note, record key points about each serious visitor. This will be invaluable later.
• ✅ Manage Traffic: If multiple groups arrive, ensure everyone signs in and is acknowledged. Do not let anyone slip by without greeting. Use your team if present: one can handle new arrivals while another talks to interested buyers.
• ✅ Maintain Professionalism: Stay positive and helpful with everyone. If someone gives negative feedback, note it but don’t argue. Keep an eye on the property (prevent any inappropriate behavior, gently). Keep the environment clean (tidy up cups, etc.).
• ✅ Encourage Next Steps: For interested buyers, attempt to set a next appointment: “I’d be happy to show you this home again or other homes – are you available tomorrow to talk more?” For neighbors or sellers, “I can pop by sometime to give you a quick home valuation if you’re curious – no obligation.” Even tentative yeses are great; you can firm up later when you follow up.
• ✅ Thank & Farewell: Thank each group as they leave: “Thank you for coming! I’ll be in touch with that info we discussed.” A good last impression makes you memorable.

After the Open House (Same Day/Next Day)

• ✅ Secure House: Lock up, turn off lights, return key to lockbox. Leave the home as you found it (or better).
• ✅ Pick Up Signs: Collect all your signs from the neighborhood (don’t leave your marketing behind).
• ✅ Debrief: While it’s fresh, record the total visitor count and general feedback. If co-hosting, discuss how it went. Celebrate the successes!
• ✅ Enter Leads into CRM: Input all new contacts into your database (if not already synced). Include notes (needs, agent or not, timeframe, etc.). Tag them appropriately (open house source, buyer vs seller).
• ✅ Send Immediate Thank-Yous: Send a thank-you email or handwritten note to attendees within hours of the event. Personalize it if possible (“Great chatting about your relocation to Texas – I’ll email those listings tomorrow.”). This shows responsiveness.
• ✅ Notify Seller/Listing Agent: Provide open house feedback and the number of visitors. (If you are the listing agent, also update your seller and discuss any follow-up showing requests or potential interest.)

Ongoing Follow-Up

• ✅ Hot Lead Calls: Within 1-2 days, personally call the most promising leads (those who indicated urgent needs or high interest). Offer to help with next steps (show other homes, listing consultation, mortgage pre-qual, etc.).
• ✅ Set Up Drips & Searches: Add buyer leads to automated new listing updates or smart drip campaigns in your CRM. Add potential sellers (neighbors) to homeowner nurture campaigns (market updates, home value content).
• ✅ Schedule Future Touches: Create tasks/reminders for follow-up calls or emails in the coming weeks. For example, a task to call every lead one week later, another in one month, etc., adjusting frequency by their urgency level. Consistent touches = higher conversion.
• ✅ Update Pipeline: Move those new leads along your pipeline stages as you make contact. Celebrate conversions like setting a buyer consult or listing appointment from the event – that’s the goal!
• ✅ Learn & Improve: Review what went well and what to adjust next time. Track how many leads and eventual clients this open house generated. Use that data to refine your next 7th Level Open House strategy.

Conclusion: Host Your First 7th Level Open House