When you’re upsizing your home, every step in the journey counts – especially the open house. It’s your home’s big moment to shine, and for families juggling work, school runs, and soccer practices, pulling off a successful open house can feel like one more thing on an already packed plate.
But don’t worry – we’ve helped dozens of growing families in the Greater Toronto Area do exactly this with minimal stress. Here’s how to prep your home like a pro (without losing your mind in the process).
Step 1: Think Like a Buyer (Who Also Has Kids)
Most people walking into your open house are imagining their future in your space. If your home appeals to family life, that’s a huge win.
Pro Tip: Highlight what makes your home family-friendly – whether it’s a finished basement play area, a fenced-in backyard, or the quiet cul-de-sac.
Do This:
- Set out a printed list of nearby schools and parks.
- Create a mini “feature sheet” with kid-friendly highlights (walkable schools, splash pads, rec centres).
Step 2: Declutter… But Keep It Warm
You’ve probably heard it before: “declutter and depersonalize.” That’s true – but don’t strip your home of all personality. Buyers should be able to imagine their life in it, not just see blank walls.
What works well:
- Neutral tones with cozy textures
- A few family-friendly decorative touches (a kids’ book on the coffee table, a blanket draped over a rocking chair)
- Clear counters, tidy closets, and no laundry piles in sight!
Planning to Move This Year?
Step 3: Create a Flow That Tells a Story
Every room should have a purpose, and the layout should feel easy to walk through. Ask yourself: Does my home invite people to imagine their own routines here?
Quick wins:
- Stage your entryway to feel welcoming
- Set the dining table with simple place settings
- Add soft lighting in bedrooms to create a calm vibe
Step 4: Time It Right for Family Buyers
If your ideal buyer is another growing family (like yours), consider when they’re most likely to come. Weekends after morning activities tend to be best – think Saturday or Sunday between 1-4 PM.
📆 Avoid: Weeknight evenings packed with hockey practices or school events.
Step 5: Give Them Room to Dream
You don’t need to be present during the open house (in fact, we recommend stepping out). Buyers often feel more comfortable exploring freely and picturing themselves there.
Leave behind:
- A one-page home feature sheet
- A “neighbourhood love letter” (what your family has loved most about living here)
- Optional: snacks or water bottles (a small but thoughtful touch!)
Bonus: Let Us Handle the Stress
The truth is, you don’t need to do this alone. At The Halyard Group, we specialize in helping upsizing families sell and buy without the chaos. We’ll manage everything from staging and timing to marketing your open house with family-friendly messaging.
📞 Ready to talk strategy? Book a free Upsizing Discovery Call today and let’s map out the move that works best for your whole crew.
