Last minute open house cancellations

I feel so awful - I had to cancel my last open house because we were in a car accident the night before, and we were left with no car, no kids’ car seats, and no way to get out for the open house. It was freezing rain, so I couldn’t take the kids to play outside for 3 hours. Now, I’m all ready for this weekend’s open house, and 2 out of 3 of my kids start throwing up! I’m going to text my agent to apologize profusely and offer to reimburse his marketing expenses for this weekend. Is there anything else I can do? I feel terrible; these unforeseen circumstances are really getting in the way!

Broker here. Don’t stress at all. Open houses are mostly for agents to find clients and are not the main way homes sell. If a buyer is serious, they’ll set an appointment to view your home.

Bingo. Open houses are a waste of time in this market, especially during the holidays.

I agree with the broker, your house is unlikely to sell based on the open house. It’s mostly free marketing for your agent.

Get a hotel room! Have the kids spend the day in bed with TV while you enjoy some room service. Might not be so bad!

You’re being too hard on yourself! Life happens. Just update your broker and inform them you’ll reschedule in a week or two. Apologize and move on!

Open houses don’t sell houses. They’re mainly for agent marketing. Don’t sweat it.

You need to prioritize this sale. Go to a hotel room.

Life happens, and more seems to happen when your house is on the market. Anyone genuinely interested will schedule a showing.