Toronto’s Open House Tradition

It’s no secret that open houses are a Toronto real estate tradition. Are they effective? Well, the first sale I made in real estate was due to hosting an open house for another agent’s listing. Oh, and did I mention that I didn’t sell that house to my buyer? We went out, found another similar property and he bought that one.

Toronto Open
House Risks

But the purpose of this article isn’t to discuss the efficiencies of open houses. Look for that article sooner than later. Rather, it’s to bring to your attention a couple of articles in today’s papers that highlight one of the unpleasant aspects of open houses. No, not the nosy neighbours or open house groupies, although I hear you on that.

Check out:

Woman used young sons in open-house thefts: Peel Police (National Post)

and …

Open-house thefts like a tale out of Dickens (Toronto Star)

Sad, but true. Despite coaching sellers on how to prepare their homes for open houses, and the on-site diligence shown by agents during those open houses, Stuff Happens.

Is an open house in your future? If so please be mindful that open houses are being targeted, and that these people are pros in the thieving game. And Toronto real estate agents aren’t trained security experts. Lock up your valuables.

Toronto sellers! Interested in a marketing strategy that sells? Call Lauren at 416–550–6991 to discuss, or send me an email.

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