Real estate agents are often busy with multiple clients and commitments, making it difficult to be present at all open houses for their listed properties. As a result, it is not uncommon for agents to request another agent to help hold an open house for them. This is a common practice that can be beneficial for both parties involved, but it’s important to have a clear understanding of the expectations and responsibilities involved in such an arrangement. We’ll discuss some of the expectations a real estate agent may have when requesting another agent to hold an open house for them.

Professionalism
One of the most important expectations a real estate agent may have when requesting another agent to help hold an open house for them is professionalism. The agent who is holding the open house should represent the listing agent in a professional and courteous manner. This means dressing professionally, arriving on time, being knowledgeable about the property, and providing excellent customer service to potential buyers.
Preparation
Another expectation a real estate agent may have is that the agent holding the open house is well-prepared. This includes making sure that the property is clean, organized, and ready for potential buyers to view. The agent holding the open house should also be prepared with marketing materials, such as brochures and business cards, to provide to potential buyers.
To aid in the preparation for the open house, we recommend the initiating agent work with a sign placement company for their open house signage. This way the agent holding the open house, doesn’t need to go out of their way to pick up the signs from one location and place them around town. Asking for the hosting agent could increase the cost of your open house significantly.
Communication
Clear communication is critical when requesting another agent to help hold an open house. The listing agent should clearly communicate the expectations for the open house, including the date, time, and any specific requirements for the property. The agent holding the open house should communicate any feedback they receive from potential buyers to the listing agent.
Additionally, both parties need to agree on “who” should receive the represented and unrepresented leads that walk through the door. In fact, Showami recommends that this be clearly stated in the public notes section of any on-demand open house hosting requests. This way both parties clearly understand the lead flow prior to the open house responsibilities being transferred.
Trust
When requesting another agent to hold an open house, trust is essential. The listing agent should have confidence in the agent holding the open house to represent them and their clients in a professional and ethical manner. This includes being honest with potential buyers about any issues or concerns with the property and providing accurate information about the property.
Follow-up
Finally, a real estate agent may expect the agent holding the open house to follow up with them on how the open house went. As a requesting agent, they may want to know how many people attended the open house, what their feedback was, and if anyone was ready to buy. Additionally, as part of the follow up the agent hosting the open house needs to provide the requesting agent with any leads they asked for.
In conclusion, requesting another agent to hold an open house is a common practice in the real estate industry. However, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the expectations and responsibilities involved in such an arrangement. By maintaining professionalism, preparation, communication, trust, and follow-up, agents can work together to ensure a successful open house and a positive experience for potential buyers.
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