When selling a home, hosting an open house is a great way to attract potential buyers and showcase your property. But as a seller, you may wonder, "How much does a realtor charge for an open house?" The good news is that there’s usually no separate fee for an open house—it’s typically included as part of the real estate agent’s commission. Let’s break it down.

Do You Have to Pay Extra for an Open House?

Usually, no - you don’t pay a separate fee just to have an open house. Most of the time, things like open houses, marketing, and photography are all included in your agent’s commission when your home sells. That commission is typically a percentage of the sale price, often around 5% to 6%.

But there is a new rule to keep in mind. Thanks to recent changes from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), how agents get paid is now more flexible and transparent. Sellers aren’t required to offer payment to a buyer’s agent upfront, and those details need to be worked out ahead of time. That means your agreement with your listing agent should clearly explain what services they’re providing and what you’re paying for.

Let’s say your home sells for $400,000 and you’ve agreed to a 5% commission - that’s $20,000. Your agent might share that with a buyer’s agent or keep it, depending on your agreement. Either way, your agent uses their portion to cover things like open houses, marketing, and other tools to help sell your home.

What Does the Realtor Cover for an Open House?

While you’re not paying a separate fee, it’s worth knowing what your realtor typically handles for an open house. Here’s what’s usually included:

• Advertising: Realtors promote the open house through online platforms, social media, email campaigns, and even traditional signage.

• Staging Assistance: They may suggest staging ideas or work with a professional stager to make your home look its best.

• Professional Materials: Flyers, brochures, and other marketing materials are often created to provide visitors with information about the home.

• Hosting and Follow-Up: Your agent will greet visitors, answer questions, and gather contact information to follow up with interested buyers.

Are There Any Additional Costs to Consider?

While the listing agent typically covers most expenses, there may be a few costs sellers handle themselves, such as:

• Staging Costs: If professional staging is recommended, this might come at an extra cost, depending on the company and the extent of the work.

• Cleaning and Repairs: Ensuring your home is open-house-ready might require some investment in cleaning, decluttering, or minor repairs.

Is Hosting an Open House Worth It?

Open houses can be a powerful tool for generating interest, especially in highly competitive markets. They bring in serious buyers who may not have scheduled a private showing and create buzz about your property. However, their success often depends on your market and how well your home is marketed overall.

If you’re preparing to sell your home and wondering how to make the most of your open house, connect with the experts at Vreeland Real Estate. Our experienced agents will guide you through every step, ensuring your home gets the exposure it deserves.