Open House vs Private Showings in Ottawa, ON: What Works Best for Sellers
An open house lets many buyers see your Ottawa home at one set time, which builds energy and exposure. Private showings let qualified buyers visit by appointment, which gives more control and privacy. Most sellers get the best results by combining both, with a first-weekend open house followed by private showings. Ask an Ottawa listing broker to build the plan.
Once your home is listed, the next question is how buyers will see it. Open houses and private showings each have a place. The right mix depends on your home, your timing and your comfort level.
How Open Houses Work
An open house is a set time, usually a weekend afternoon, when anyone can walk through your home. Your broker hosts it, welcomes visitors and collects contact details.
Pros
- Many buyers see the home in a short time
- Creates buzz and a sense of competition
- Helps neighbours and casual browsers spread the word
- Reduces the number of separate appointments
Cons
- Draws some visitors who are not serious buyers
- Less privacy and more traffic through your home
- Needs extra attention to safety and valuables
How Private Showings Work
A private showing is an appointment for one buyer or family, usually with their broker. It is a more focused visit.
Pros
- Visitors are more likely to be serious
- Buyers can take their time and ask questions
- You control who comes and when
Cons
- Appointments can disrupt your day
- Fewer buyers see the home in the first days
- Feedback comes one visit at a time
Which Is Better in Ottawa?
Neither is always better. A first-weekend open house works well for homes in busy areas, such as Kanata and Barrhaven, where families are actively looking. Private showings suit unique homes, luxury properties and situations where privacy matters. Many sellers use both: a launch open house, then private showings through the rest of the listing.
Getting Your Home Ready for Either
- Clean and declutter before photos and again before every visit
- Store valuables, medication and personal papers
- Set a comfortable temperature and turn on all the lights
- Plan for pets, by keeping them out of the home during visits
- In winter, clear the walkway and give visitors a place for their boots
An Open House Checklist for Sellers
- Clean every room and clear counters
- Turn on all the lights and open blinds
- Set a comfortable temperature
- Remove valuables, medication and personal papers
- Place a sign-in sheet and feature sheets at the entry
- Remove pets and any strong smells
- Leave the home for the duration
Virtual Tours and Online Viewing
Many buyers start online. A strong set of photos, a floor plan and a video or virtual tour help buyers decide which homes to visit. Better online presentation often means fewer, more serious visits and quicker feedback.
Offer Dates and Showings
Some sellers set a date to review offers, which gives buyers time to see the home before submitting. A well-planned showing schedule leading up to that date, including an open house, can build interest. Your broker can explain whether this approach suits your home and your market.
Showing Feedback
Ask your broker to share feedback from each visit. Repeated comments about price, condition or layout can guide small changes, such as a price adjustment, extra staging or a quick repair.
Ask for the Plan in Writing
Murtaza Siddiqui is a top-rated RE/MAX real estate broker with Ottawa experience since 2015, the 2026 Top 1% RE/MAX REALTOR® Canada-wide designation, the 2025 RE/MAX Hall of Fame, the 2025 RE/MAX Chairman’s Award and the RE/MAX Platinum Award every year from 2021 to 2025. He can build a showing plan around your home, including timing, safety and how feedback is shared, so you always know how buyers are responding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are open houses still worth it in Ottawa?
Yes, in many cases. They create exposure and urgency in the first days of a listing, especially in family-friendly areas. Your broker can advise whether one suits your home and timing.
What is the difference between an open house and a private showing?
An open house is a set time when anyone can visit. A private showing is an appointment for a specific buyer, usually with their broker.
Is it safe to hold an open house?
With planning, yes. Your broker hosts, signs visitors in and keeps an eye on the home. You should still store valuables, medication and personal papers before every visit.
Do I have to leave during showings?
It is best to leave so buyers feel comfortable exploring. Make a plan for pets and let your broker know about any access needs.
How many showings should I expect?
It varies by price, condition, location and season. Your broker can share how similar homes in your area are performing and adjust your plan if interest is slow.
Can I limit when buyers can visit?
Yes. You can set showing windows that suit your schedule. Wider availability usually means more showings, so find a balance with your broker.
How do I prepare my house for an open house?
Clean and declutter, turn on all lights, set a comfortable temperature, remove valuables and personal papers and arrange for pets to be away. Your broker will handle the sign-in and visitors.
Do virtual tours replace showings?
No, but they help buyers decide which homes to visit. Good photos, floor plans and video bring more serious buyers through the door.
Next Step
Ready to list? Contact Murtaza at 613-805-1111 to plan your showings.
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