Wondering if an open house is worth it when selling your home?
The short answer: sometimes yes, sometimes not as much — and in Jacksonville’s current buyer-friendly market, it’s all about how you do it.

What the 2025 Market Means for Open Houses

Jacksonville has been leaning in buyers’ favor for nearly two years. Inventory is up, average days on market are longer, and sellers are competing harder for attention. In this climate, open houses can work — but they’re not magic on their own.

The good news:

  • More buyers are actively touring in person again after a few years of virtual showings dominating.

  • Open houses can create a “buzz” effect if priced right and marketed well.

  • They give buyers a no-pressure way to view your home — especially those just starting their search.

The reality check:

  • Many serious buyers will have already seen your listing online and may prefer private showings.

  • Without strong marketing, an open house might just bring in curious neighbors rather than qualified buyers.

The Benefits of Doing It Right

1. Boosts Exposure

An open house adds an event-based reason for buyers to come by. Paired with targeted online advertising and social media posts, it can put your home in front of a bigger audience in a short period.

2. Creates a Sense of Urgency

When buyers see other people walking through, they may feel the pressure to act faster — especially if they’ve been casually looking.

3. Low-Pressure Buyer Experience

Some buyers are hesitant to commit to a private showing if they’re early in the process. An open house gives them a comfortable way to start imagining themselves in the home.

When an Open House May Not Help

  • Overpriced Listings
    If your home is priced above comparable sales, foot traffic won’t turn into offers — no matter how many people visit.

  • Poor Timing
    Holding it too soon after listing can limit exposure. Too late, and buyer interest may have cooled.

  • No Targeted Marketing
    A simple yard sign and MLS entry won’t cut it. Today’s buyers need to see it in their feeds, emails, and search alerts.

How to Make an Open House Count in Jacksonville

  1. Pick the Right Weekend — Avoid holiday weekends or big local events unless you can tie into them.

  2. Stage for Success — Neutral décor, open blinds, fresh scent — every detail counts.

  3. Price Competitively Beforehand — Get buyers excited, not skeptical.

  4. Promote It Everywhere — Social media, local groups, targeted ads, email blasts.

  5. Follow Up Immediately — Capture attendee info and connect within 24 hours.

Final Takeaway

In today’s Jacksonville market, an open house can be a useful tool — but it works best as part of a bigger selling strategy. If your home is priced right, marketed well, and staged beautifully, an open house can spark interest and even multiple offers. But if the basics aren’t right, no open house will “save” a listing.

Thinking of Selling?

Contact CrossView Realty at 904-503-0672 or email info@crossviewrealty.com. We’ll help you decide if an open house makes sense for your home — and create a plan to market it to the right buyers, at the right time, for the right price.