Do Open Houses Still Work in 2025?

For decades, open houses have been a staple of real estate marketing. Sellers tidy up, buyers wander in, and deals sometimes get started on a casual Sunday afternoon. But in 2025, with technology transforming how people shop for homes, many wonder: are open houses still effective?

1. The Case for Open Houses

• In-Person Connection: Walking through a property gives buyers an emotional connection that photos and videos can’t fully replicate.

• Neighborhood Exposure: Open houses attract foot traffic, including curious neighbors who may know someone looking to buy.

• Sense of Urgency: A busy open house signals demand, motivating buyers to act quickly.

2. The Case Against Open Houses

• Qualified Buyers Prefer Private Tours: Most serious buyers today schedule one-on-one showings with their agents rather than dropping by.

• Online Listings Are Dominant: Virtual tours, professional photography, and 3D walkthroughs allow buyers to “see” the home before ever stepping inside.

• Security Concerns: Open houses can bring in looky-loos or unqualified visitors, and some sellers feel uneasy about having strangers roam their property.

3. The 2025 Shift: Hybrid Approach

Open houses still have value—but they work best when paired with digital marketing. Many successful listings combine:

• Virtual tours & floor plans for out-of-town or busy buyers

• Targeted social media ads promoting the open house

• Follow-up campaigns to convert casual visitors into serious leads

4. When Open Houses Work Best

• In highly desirable neighborhoods with lots of foot traffic

• For newly renovated or staged homes that show well in person

• When combined with strong online buzz that drives turnout

✅ Bottom Line: Open houses aren’t obsolete, but in 2025, they work best as part of a larger marketing strategy—not the sole tool. Sellers should lean on both digital and in-person methods to capture the widest pool of buyers.