Open House Strategy: What We Can Learn from Australia

Open houses are a core part of the property scene in Australia — and honestly, I think we’re missing a trick in Wandsworth. If you've ever searched for property in Sydney or Melbourne, you'll know it's completely normal for estate agents to hold weekly open homes. Buyers plan their Saturdays around them. It’s a cultural norm — but also a smart strategy.

So, what exactly is an open house? It’s a scheduled time when buyers can turn up and view a property without a private appointment. Usually on a weekend, often styled beautifully, and always hosted by the agent. Think of it as a showcase — not just of the home, but of the interest around it too.

Here’s why I believe in them — and why I offer them as part of my core service to sellers:

• They create buzz. Having several buyers walk through at once adds a natural sense of demand. No one wants to miss out.

• They’re efficient. For sellers, it’s one clean window to prep your home and let serious buyers through — no endless tidying for random viewings.

• They reveal the feel. Buyers get to experience the flow of the space in a more relaxed way. It’s less transactional, more emotional — and property decisions are emotional.

• They’re great for gauging interest. You can tell pretty quickly who’s genuinely keen and who’s just curious.

Could it work in Wandsworth? Yes — and more people should try it. We’ve got beautiful homes here, charming streets, and a smart, savvy buyer base. An open house, done properly, can cut through the noise and get buyers emotionally connected in a single afternoon.

It’s not about crowds or chaos — it’s about creating an experience. And that’s where your estate agent matters.

If you’re thinking of selling your home in Wandsworth — whether you’re just exploring your options or ready to go — choose an estate agent who understands how to use open houses well. For me, they’re not just a tactic — they’re a belief. That’s why I include them as a standard part of how I help local homeowners sell with impact.

Because sometimes, the right few people, seeing the right home at the right moment — that’s what makes the sale.

—Rob Tauscher – The Wandsworth Property Expert