There has been a lot of discussion lately about the value of using and open house to promote a property. Proponents point out that you don’t sell a house without getting people inside (good point) and that the more people you can get inside, the more likely you are to find someone who likes it (another good point).
On the opposite side of the coin, opponents say an open house gives thieves an opportunity to case the house in detail to see if there’s anything they want. People pick up little things along the way, and maybe leave a window or back door unlocked so they can return later.
That brings up the subject of virtual tours. The same thing could be said (on both sides of the issue) about virtual tours. What a great way to case a potential victim. On the other hand, what a great way to sell a home.
I guess the bottom line is you and your client need to decide what’s best in a particular case. You could always do a virtual tour with all the furniture and everything, but not put it up until the people move out. Or, you could take any valuables out of the room before doing the virtual tour.
At the end of the day, you have to market the house. You can’t just stick a sign in front and hope for the best. How you’re going to market the home is one of those things that ought to be discussed up front. This is an area where confusion will equal a dissatisfied client.
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