Burnaby Open House Tips: A Practical Guide for Sellers and Buyers

Understanding the Value of Open Houses in Burnaby

Why Open Houses Still Work in 2025

Even in a digital-first real estate market, open houses continue to hold their ground—especially in a competitive, high-demand area like Burnaby. While virtual tours, social media, and online listings can attract attention, open houses create a physical experience that digital tools can’t replicate. They let buyers get a feel for the space, neighborhood, and layout—something that’s especially important in a city where homes can vary significantly even within the same block.

For sellers, open houses offer a low-pressure environment where potential buyers can explore without the commitment of booking a private showing. This casual format often attracts more traffic, including serious buyers who may not have otherwise scheduled a tour.

Agents in Burnaby also report that open houses tend to spark spontaneous interest, leading to follow-up showings or even early offers. Whether you're a buyer looking to assess multiple properties or a seller hoping to generate buzz quickly, an open house remains one of the most effective tools in your real estate toolkit.

Burnaby Real Estate Trends That Favor In-Person Showings

Over the past year, Burnaby has seen steady demand for residential properties, particularly in neighborhoods like Brentwood, Metrotown, and Burnaby Heights. According to local agents and MLS data, homes that hosted in-person open houses received more showings overall—and, on average, more offers—than those relying solely on digital promotion.

A few key trends make open houses particularly effective in Burnaby:

• Diverse Buyer Demographics: From young professionals and families to downsizers and investors, Burnaby draws a wide range of buyers—many of whom still prefer viewing homes in person.
  
  
• Walkable Communities: With parks, SkyTrain stations, and retail hubs nearby, buyers often attend open houses while exploring the neighborhood on foot.
  
  
• Low Inventory in Key Areas: In hot spots like Edmonds or Capitol Hill, open houses often result in multiple offer situations due to pent-up demand.
  
  

The data shows a clear correlation between higher open house attendance and increased number of offers, particularly in detached home and townhome categories.

As the Burnaby market continues to evolve, open houses remain a reliable way to build momentum, generate buzz, and connect buyers with the right property in real time.

Getting Ready to Host: Burnaby Sellers’ Open House Checklist

Preparing your home for an open house is more than just tidying up—it’s about creating an inviting atmosphere that helps buyers picture themselves living there. In Burnaby’s active and diverse real estate market, attention to detail can give your property a serious edge.

Decluttering and Staging to Impress

First impressions happen fast. Clutter—no matter how minor—can distract buyers and make your home feel smaller or less functional.

Decluttering tips:

• Remove excess furniture to create a sense of space.
  
  
• Store away personal items, including family photos, toys, and paperwork.
  
  
• Clear countertops in kitchens and bathrooms.
  
  

Once the space is clear, staging adds visual appeal and helps buyers emotionally connect with the home.

Staging suggestions:

• Add simple décor like fresh flowers or modern throw pillows.
  
  
• Use mirrors to brighten smaller rooms.
  
  
• Set the dining table as if hosting a dinner—this adds a homey, welcoming vibe.
  
  

Deep Cleaning Do’s and Don’ts

Burnaby buyers tend to be detail-oriented, and even small signs of dirt or wear can raise red flags. A spotless home signals that it’s well-maintained and move-in ready.

Do:

• Clean all floors, baseboards, and hard surfaces thoroughly.
  
  
• Wash windows inside and out.
  
  
• Polish appliances and stainless steel fixtures.
  
  

Don’t:

• Mask odors with overpowering air fresheners.
  
  
• Skip areas like closets or under sinks—buyers will look there!
  
  
• Leave dishes in the sink or laundry in the machine.
  
  

Lighting, Temperature, and Scent: Setting the Mood

Creating a sensory-friendly environment can significantly boost your home’s appeal.

Lighting:

• Open all blinds to bring in natural light.
  
  
• Replace any dim or burnt-out bulbs with bright, warm LEDs.
  
  

Temperature:

• Keep the home at a comfortable level—around 21°C (70°F) is ideal, especially in winter or early spring.
  
  

Scent:

• Use neutral scents like vanilla or citrus.
  
  
• Avoid cooking anything with strong odors before the showing.
  
  

Handling Pets, Personal Items, and Valuables

While many Burnaby households are pet-friendly, not all buyers are. To ensure your home appeals to everyone:

Pets:

• Temporarily remove pets from the home during the open house.
  
  
• Hide food bowls, litter boxes, and pet toys.
  
  

Personal items:

• Store away prescription medications, mail, and personal documents.
  
  

Valuables:

• Lock up jewelry, electronics, and any small items of value.
  
  
• Don’t leave spare keys or garage remotes in plain sight.
  
  

Safety and privacy should never be compromised during an open house.

Know Your Bylaws: Noise, Parking, and Community Rules

Burnaby has specific bylaws and community expectations that sellers should be aware of before hosting an open house.

• Noise regulations: Avoid playing loud music or using outdoor speakers, especially in townhome or condo developments.
  
  
• Parking considerations: Encourage visitors to park legally and consider placing signage to guide them to available spots.
  
  
• Strata rules: If you’re selling a condo or townhouse, check if your strata has restrictions around open house hours or signage.
  
  

Contact the City of Burnaby or your strata management for up-to-date regulations.

How to Market Your Burnaby Open House Like a Pro

Marketing your open house effectively can mean the difference between a quiet afternoon and a lineup at your door. In Burnaby's fast-paced real estate market, smart promotion ensures your property gets noticed—by the right buyers at the right time.

Best Days and Times to Maximize Foot Traffic

Timing is everything. Hosting your open house when your target buyers are most likely to attend can dramatically boost turnout.

Top days for open houses in Burnaby:

• Sundays from 1–4 PM: This is the golden window—weekend errands are done, and most people are available.
  
  
• Saturdays late morning (11 AM–1 PM): Great for families and early-bird home shoppers.
  
  
• Weekday evenings (for condo or downtown units): Tuesday or Thursday evenings from 5–7 PM can work for professionals.
  
  

Bonus tip: Align your schedule with nearby open houses to take advantage of neighborhood traffic. Buyers often tour several homes in one trip.

Using Facebook Events, Instagram, and Realtor.ca

Don’t just rely on your real estate agent’s MLS listing—amplify your reach with online platforms where Burnaby buyers are already scrolling.

Facebook Events:

• Create a public event under your or your agent’s page.
  
  
• Include all the key info: date, time, location, features, and a strong cover photo.
  
  
• Share to local Burnaby groups and encourage friends to reshare.
  
  

Instagram:

• Use a mix of feed posts, stories, and reels to promote the home and event.
  
  
• Hashtags like #BurnabyRealEstate, #BurnabyHomesForSale, and #OpenHouseBurnaby can increase discoverability.
  
  

Realtor.ca:

• Ensure your open house is marked and updated in the listing.
  
  
• Include compelling property descriptions and up-to-date photos or virtual tours.
  
  

Consistency across platforms helps build awareness and urgency.

Door Signs, Corner Signs, and Directional Arrows

Old-school signage still works—especially in a residential community like Burnaby, where many buyers discover homes while driving or walking around.

Tips for effective signage:

• Place directional signs at major intersections nearby.
  
  
• Use branded, bold-colored signs that include the date, time, and arrow direction.
  
  
• Add balloons or flags for extra visibility.
  
  

Place signs the morning of the event and remove them immediately after.

Create a One-Page Feature Sheet Buyers Can Take Home

Give visitors something they can refer to later—especially when they’re touring multiple properties.

What to include on your feature sheet:

• High-quality photos (front exterior, kitchen, main living areas)
  
  
• Property details: square footage, number of beds/baths, lot size
  
  
• Key features: recent upgrades, energy-efficient appliances, unique finishes
  
  
• Neighborhood highlights: schools, transit, parks
  
  
• Contact info for you or your agent
  
  

Pro tip: Print it on quality paper and include a QR code linking to a virtual tour or full listing page.

A professional-looking feature sheet keeps your home top-of-mind and makes follow-up easy.

Tips for Buyers Attending Open Houses in Burnaby

Attending open houses is a key part of the homebuying journey—but it’s more than just walking through rooms and admiring staging. With the right approach, you can spot value, avoid costly mistakes, and leave a lasting impression (for the right reasons). Whether you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned mover, these tips will help you navigate Burnaby open houses like a pro.

What to Bring: Notes, Questions, and Pre-Approval Info

Being prepared helps you make the most of your time—and positions you as a serious buyer.

Here’s what you should bring:

• Notebook or digital notes app to track your impressions (especially if touring multiple homes in a day).
  
  
• Pre-approval letter or mortgage pre-qualification (optional but helpful if you're close to making an offer).
  
  
• Smartphone for snapping reference photos—just ask permission first.
  
  
• A list of questions relevant to the home, neighborhood, and condition.
  
  

Bonus tip: Bring a measuring tape if you’re concerned about fitting specific furniture or appliances.

What to Ask the Listing Agent (And What Not To)

The listing agent is there to answer your questions—within reason. Asking the right things can give you a competitive edge or highlight hidden issues.

Smart questions to ask:

• Why is the seller moving?
  
  
• How long has the property been on the market?
  
  
• Have there been any recent price reductions?
  
  
• Are there any offers currently on the table?
  
  
• What’s included in the sale (appliances, fixtures, etc.)?
  
  
• Are there any known issues or past repairs?
  
  

What to avoid asking (in front of other visitors):

• “How low will the seller go?” (This is better discussed privately through your buyer’s agent.)
  
  
• Personal details about the seller (divorce, death, finances).
  
  
• Anything that sounds overly critical of the home—it can backfire and close off further communication.
  
  

Buyer Red Flags: Things to Watch Out For

While open houses are meant to show a home in its best light, there are often clues that tell a deeper story. Keep your eyes open for signs that could mean costly repairs or difficult living conditions.

Top 10 Red Flags in a Home Tour:

1. Strong air fresheners or candles masking odors
   
   
2. Water stains on ceilings or baseboards
   
   
3. Fresh paint only in certain areas (could be hiding damage)
   
   
4. Cracks around door frames or windows (possible foundation issues)
   
   
5. Windows that won’t open or close properly
   
   
6. Musty smell, especially in the basement
   
   
7. Inconsistent flooring transitions or uneven floors
   
   
8. Rusty plumbing fixtures or poor water pressure
   
   
9. Signs of pests (traps, droppings, chewed wood)
   
   
10. Too much noise from nearby roads or neighbors
    
    

If you notice more than a couple of these, it’s worth digging deeper with your agent or a home inspector.

Open House Etiquette: Be Respectful and Observant

Making a good impression—on both the listing agent and seller—is key, especially in competitive markets like Burnaby.

Do:

• Greet the host or agent when you enter.
  
  
• Ask before taking photos or videos.
  
  
• Stay within common areas unless invited to explore further.
  
  
• Keep voices low and respectful—others may be touring.
  
  

Don’t:

• Open drawers or closets without permission.
  
  
• Criticize the home loudly in front of others.
  
  
• Bring food or drink into the property.
  
  
• Arrive late or stay past the scheduled time.
  
  

Even if you’re not 100% sold on the home, being courteous keeps doors open—and your reputation intact.

Choosing the Right Burnaby Neighborhood for Your Needs

Burnaby is one of the most diverse and well-connected cities in the Lower Mainland, offering a variety of neighborhood vibes—from quiet, family-friendly streets to high-rise urban hubs. Whether you're a first-time buyer, upsizing, or downsizing, picking the right area is a big part of making a smart real estate move.

Comparing North, South, and Central Burnaby

Each region of Burnaby has its own unique character, price range, and pace of life. Here's a quick breakdown to help you focus your search:

North Burnaby

• Popular areas: Brentwood, Capitol Hill, Westridge
  
  
• What to expect: Stunning views, quieter residential streets, access to SFU and the Burnaby Mountain trails.
  
  
• Buyer profile: Families, professionals, and outdoor lovers.
  
  
• Market note: Prices can be premium in view or transit-adjacent zones.
  
  

South Burnaby

• Popular areas: Metrotown, Edmonds, Big Bend
  
  
• What to expect: Urban density, major shopping centers (like Metropolis), and a mix of condos and detached homes.
  
  
• Buyer profile: Condo buyers, investors, and commuters.
  
  
• Market note: Fast-paced, highly walkable areas near SkyTrain hubs.
  
  

Central Burnaby

• Popular areas: Deer Lake, Burnaby Lake, Lakeview-Maywood
  
  
• What to expect: Parks, recreational lakes, and larger family homes with more green space.
  
  
• Buyer profile: Growing families, nature seekers, and those wanting a central location with a suburban feel.
  
  
• Market note: Strong demand for detached homes with yard space.
  
  

Choosing the right area depends on more than just budget—it’s about matching your day-to-day lifestyle and long-term goals with your surroundings.

Lifestyle Considerations: Schools, Parks, Transit

Burnaby is known for its thoughtful planning and public amenities. Use these key lifestyle factors to help narrow down your neighborhood search:

Schools:

• Families with children should consider school catchment areas.
  
  
• Notable institutions include Burnaby North Secondary, Moscrop Secondary, and St. Thomas More Collegiate.
  
  
• French immersion and private school options are also widely available.
  
  

Parks & Outdoor Space:

• Burnaby offers plenty of green space: Burnaby Lake, Central Park, Kensington Park, and Deer Lake Park are local favorites.
  
  
• If walkability and outdoor recreation are priorities, neighborhoods near these parks are ideal.
  
  

Transit & Commute:

• The SkyTrain’s Expo and Millennium Lines make commuting to downtown Vancouver fast and reliable.
  
  
• Transit-heavy areas like Metrotown, Brentwood, and Lougheed Town Centre are great for car-free lifestyles.
  
  

By aligning your priorities with what each Burnaby neighborhood offers, you can find a home that fits both your lifestyle and investment goals.

Virtual vs. In-Person Open Houses

As technology continues to shape the way homes are bought and sold, Burnaby sellers and buyers now have options: host or attend open houses virtually or in person. Each format offers unique benefits depending on your needs, goals, and comfort level.

Pros and Cons for Sellers

Choosing between a virtual or in-person open house depends on your property type, your target audience, and your marketing strategy. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Ideal use cases in Burnaby:

• Use in-person open houses to show off detached homes, staged properties, or listings in high-demand areas like Brentwood or Metrotown.
  
  
• Use virtual tours for condos, investor-targeted properties, or homes with travel restrictions or tenants in place.
  
  

Pro tip for sellers: Combine both. Host a traditional open house and use a virtual tour link in all your marketing—this extends your reach and works for all buyer types.

Tips for Buyers Attending Virtual Tours

Virtual tours are convenient—but only if you know how to use them to your advantage. Here’s how to get the most out of an online showing:

1. Prepare like it’s in person.

• Have a list of questions ready (about layout, appliances, fees, etc.).
  
  
• If it’s a live virtual open house, join on time and treat it like a real walkthrough.
  
  

2. Request a copy of the floor plan.

• Virtual tours can distort room sizes and flow. Having the actual layout helps you evaluate space realistically.
  
  

3. Don’t just watch—ask.

• During a live session, don’t be afraid to ask for close-ups or second views of key areas (closets, ceilings, under sinks).
  
  
• If it’s a pre-recorded tour, ask for follow-up photos or videos of anything not shown clearly.
  
  

4. Check the surroundings.

• Use Google Street View to explore the block, look for nearby transit, construction, or commercial zones.
  
  
• Ask about noise levels, sunlight orientation, and traffic patterns.
  
  

5. Use it as a screening tool.

• Virtual tours are a great way to narrow down your top contenders before scheduling in-person showings.
  
  

While virtual tours can’t replace the in-person experience entirely, they’re a powerful tool for informed decision-making—especially in a fast-moving market like Burnaby.

Following Up After the Open House

The work doesn’t end when the open house does. Whether you’re selling or buying in Burnaby, what happens after the open house is just as important as the event itself. Timely and strategic follow-up helps you make smart decisions and move forward with confidence.

Sellers: How to Collect Feedback and Evaluate Interest

Once the last guest leaves, it’s time to assess how your home was received.

Here’s how sellers can gather valuable insights:

• Ask your agent for a visitor log: This should include the number of attendees, names (if collected), and any immediate reactions.
  
  
• Use a simple feedback form: Ask buyers what they liked, what they didn’t, and whether they could see themselves living there.
  
  
• Review agent notes: Your agent likely picked up on buyer cues—comments, questions, time spent in key rooms—that can help guide next steps.
  
  

Look for these signs of serious interest:

• Follow-up questions about the home or offer process
  
  
• Requests to schedule a private showing
  
  
• Discussions about price or closing timelines
  
  

Use this info to make strategic decisions: adjusting the price, improving staging, or preparing for offers.

Buyers: Narrowing Down Options and Taking the Next Step

After visiting multiple open houses, it’s easy for homes to start blending together. Take time to compare and clarify.

Steps for buyers to take after open houses:

• Review your notes and photos from each property while it’s still fresh in your mind.
  
  
• Rank properties based on must-haves, location, condition, and price.
  
  
• Talk to your agent about what stood out and what didn’t.
  
  

If a home ticks most of your boxes:

• Schedule a second private showing to take a closer look.
  
  
• Ask your agent to request the seller’s disclosure statement.
  
  
• If you’re ready, start preparing an offer—especially if the market is competitive.
  
  

Staying proactive ensures you don’t miss out on a home that’s the right fit.

How to Stay Top-of-Mind with Interested Parties

For sellers, following up professionally with open house visitors can turn curiosity into serious offers.

Strategies to stay on buyers’ radar:

• Send a thank-you message or email (your agent can handle this).
  
  
• Include a PDF of the feature sheet, links to the listing, or a short video recap.
  
  
• If you received strong interest, create urgency by letting buyers know about upcoming offers or limited showing windows.
  
  

For buyers who loved a home, don’t hesitate to express interest—polite follow-up can give you a competitive edge, especially in a tight Burnaby market.

Pro tip for both parties: Keep communication warm and timely. In real estate, momentum is everything.

Mistakes to Avoid During Burnaby Open Houses

Open houses are short windows of opportunity—and both sellers and buyers need to make the most of them. Unfortunately, small missteps can leave lasting impressions. Avoid these common mistakes to stay ahead in Burnaby’s competitive real estate market.

Sellers: Don’t Overprice, Oversell, or Under-Prepare

Even the most beautiful home can sit on the market if it’s priced too high or poorly presented.

Avoid these seller missteps:

• Overpricing your home: Burnaby buyers are informed—they compare listings constantly. If your home is overpriced, it could scare off potential interest before they even step inside.
  
  
• Overselling during the tour: Let buyers explore at their own pace. Being too present or pushy can feel uncomfortable and make people rush through.
  
  
• Under-preparing: Skipping cleaning, decluttering, or repairs sends a red flag to buyers that the home hasn’t been maintained.
  
  

Solution: Price realistically, present professionally, and trust your staging and marketing to speak for itself.

Buyers: Avoid Showing Up Late, Being Rude, or Forgetting Questions

Burnaby open houses can get busy, especially in hot neighborhoods—so being prepared and respectful helps you stand out for the right reasons.

Common buyer mistakes to avoid:

• Arriving late: It shortens your experience and may give the wrong impression. Aim to arrive within the first 30 minutes.
  
  
• Being dismissive or loud: Criticizing the home in front of the agent or other buyers comes off as rude. Keep it neutral and polite.
  
  
• Not asking the right questions: Forgetting to ask about strata fees, upcoming assessments, or renovation history could mean missing key info.
  
  

Solution: Be courteous, come prepared, and treat the experience with the same professionalism you’d expect from the seller.

Local Agent Advice: Burnaby Real Estate Tips That Work

Burnaby’s top realtors know what makes an open house successful—because they’ve seen what works, and what doesn’t, over hundreds of listings. Here are some real-world insights from professionals who live and breathe the local market.

More pro tips:

• Stage to match the area: A Brentwood condo buyer is looking for modern, minimalist finishes. A Deer Lake buyer may value cozy charm or traditional style.
  
  
• Know your buyer demographic: Young professionals? Growing families? Downsizers? Tailor your messaging and marketing accordingly.
  
  
• Don’t skip signage: A well-placed open house sign still brings in serious foot traffic—especially in family-oriented neighborhoods like Montecito or South Slope.
  
  

Whether you're hosting or touring, tapping into local expertise helps you make smarter, faster, and more confident real estate decisions in Burnaby.

Conclusion: Make Your Open House Count in Burnaby

Whether you're selling or buying, a well-executed open house can make all the difference. With Burnaby's dynamic market and diverse neighborhoods, preparation and strategy are key to standing out.

Final Thoughts for Sellers: First Impressions Are Everything

Buyers decide within moments whether a home feels right. From curb appeal to scent and lighting, everything should be polished, intentional, and inviting. Clean thoroughly, stage purposefully, and price wisely—because that first impression may also be your first offer.

Remember: It's not just about showing your home—it's about selling a lifestyle.

Final Thoughts for Buyers: Be Prepared, Be Present, Be Picky

Burnaby is full of great options, but finding the right home takes more than just walking through doors. Go in with a clear idea of your needs, stay observant, ask smart questions, and don’t settle too quickly. Take your time—but be ready to act when the right one shows up.

The more focused your search, the more confident your offer.

The Burnaby Advantage: Why the Market Is Worth the Effort

From its walkable communities and SkyTrain-connected hubs to scenic parks and top-tier schools, Burnaby offers long-term value and everyday livability. It’s a city where convenience meets community—and real estate remains a solid investment for buyers and sellers alike.

Whether you're putting a home on the market or searching for your next one, Burnaby's open houses offer a front-row seat to the possibilities.

FAQs About Burnaby Open Houses

1. What’s the average turnout for a Burnaby open house?
   On average, open houses in Burnaby draw between 10 to 30 visitors, depending on the neighborhood, price point, and marketing. Hot markets and well-promoted listings may see even more.
2. Can I host multiple open houses in one weekend?
   Yes, and it can be a smart move—especially in high-demand areas. Hosting one on Saturday and another on Sunday can help reach different buyer groups and build momentum.
3. How far in advance should I prepare for my open house?
   Ideally, begin prepping 2–3 weeks ahead. This gives you enough time to declutter, clean, stage, make minor repairs, and coordinate marketing materials with your agent.
4. What if no one shows up—what should I do next?
   Don’t panic. First, review your pricing, marketing strategy, and timing. Talk to your agent about relisting strategies, adjusting your online presence, or hosting a second open house with better promotion.