The key to the Open House is to make sure all the upgrades and repairs are complete. There's no point holding an Open House if the house is not in show case condition. Take the time to make sure it looks its best so viewers will know you are serious about selling. Keep in mind that viewers tend to make a tour of a number of houses so they may only spend 10-20 minutes in your house. Here are some more ideas to create interest in your property and to facilitate an irresistible atmosphere once the potential buyers are in the door.

1) Begin by having the property Staged to make sure it is show case condition. Staging is preparing the house so that it appeals to the broadest buying audience. - clutter is removed, there is an identifiable focal point, the furniture is placed advantageously, and the spaces are neutralized.

2) Use the directional signage (either your Realtor has placed the signage or your private sale company has provided it for you to place in your neighbourhood) to advertise your Open House. Place them on the corners on major thoroughfares and side streets leading up to your house. Indicate the day and time the Open House is in operation. Make sure there is a sign on your front lawn as well.

3) Advertise creatively in every medium that is available to you. Take an ad out in the local papers, advertise on cragslist.com and kijiji.com - these are both free - and any other real estate web site you can find. Consider starting a blog and writing in it on a daily basis while the house is on the market. Activerain.com is a real estate web site where you can sign up for free and promote your listing by location.

4) Ensure that the curb appeal is strongest on the day of the Open House. Pick up scattered items like toys and garbage, clean out the flower beds and pick weeds, cut the grass or shovel the walk and driveway.

5) Clean the windows and open the drapery to allow in as much natural light as possible. Switch on lights and lamps so viewers can see every room clearly, and so they are not fumbling for the switches.

6) Light a few vanilla scented candles and possibly a cinnamon apple candle in the kitchen. Be careful not to over power the house with heavy aromas. The scent should be just enough to create a pleasant sensory experience for your viewers. Avoid incense and potpourri.

7) Have some pleasant, easy listening music playing in the background. Place a medium to large flower arrangement on the dining table or kitchen island. Have a plate of freshly baked cookies on the counter. It all adds to the homey atmosphere.

8) Place a large mat at the door so that at least three people can stand comfortably at the entry; designate a spot for shoes. Viewers seldom remove their coats so don't worry about providing a coat tree or hangers.

9) Clean the house from top to bottom. The kitchen and bathrooms in particular should sparkle. Make sure all the beds are made, personal items are put away, and the floor space in each room and closet is clear of clutter.

10) Greet your viewers, tell them your name and make sure you get their name(s). Let them know that you are comfortable with them opening cupboards, drawers and closets so they can fully appreciate the storage space that is available. Do not follow them as they tour the house.

11) Allow them to wander through the house at their own pace, and let them know that you will be in the kitchen should they have any questions. Have a stack of Feature Sheets available for each viewer to take a copy and read as they tour the house. Let them know that your name and contact information is on the sheets, and ask them for a number where they can be reached should any aspect change while the house is listed (i.e. price, possession date, or inclusions).

12) Ask your viewers for their honest impression of the house and listen attentively to their feedback. Ask them what they liked and what they would change. This will help open a conversation to build a relationship, and the information they provide will give you insight into presenting the house better for the next open house.

13) Remember to take down all the Open House signs right after it's over.

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