Open Houses in Hawaii – Who Are They Good For?

In Hawai’i, open houses can accomplish different goals than you may think. As I mostly list vacation rental properties, there is no better open house in my mind. I get an “office” that generally brings a smile to everyone’s face, including my own. Typically located near the ocean, filled with happy vacationers and fun being had by all, and that makes it a fun event.

But, Who Really Attends An Open House On Vacation?

My goal as your listing agent is focused on getting as many real estate agents through your property. Agents have many clients. And yes, even vacationing real estate agents visit open houses and can make excellent referral partners, not just for your listing, but for me as an agent as well. It’s rare that an individual visiting a property while on vacation walks into “the one.” It happens, but it’s like finding a diamond in the sand…pretty unusual.

More often than finding your buyer at an open house, I have created new renters for my listings. Especially vacation rentals that may not have good curb appeal, but an excellent oceanfront location reveals itself once entered, like Honokeana Cove.

I was on property at Honokeana Cove 200 days in 2015; I typically meet not only other owners at the property, but many guests and avid fans of our HGTV show. Agents are also the stewards of Aloha and sometimes I just talk about how awesome Maui is.

I gain knowledge of the “pulse” of a property and it makes me better prepared to answer questions that an agent or a buyer may have. That’s an experience you can only gain by being there. I know when the garbage men come by, the best times to snorkel, when the pool is and isn’t busiest…you get the idea. I also have to sit with my back to an excellent view to avoid extreme daydreaming…a risk I’m willing to take on.