Why You Should Remove Interior Doors Before An Open House

Whether you're an experienced property seller or a newbie to the real estate business, you've probably heard an array of expert home staging advice to attract the greatest number of potential buyers. Today, we will introduce an unconventional yet remarkably effective tip: removing all your interior doors before an open house. Yes, you heard it right — those wooden barriers that close off your rooms can be a hindrance during an open house. Let's delve into why.

Doors segment spaces, creating boundaries that restrict flow and continuity. They break up the visual expanse and can leave some rooms feeling small and cramped. When you remove them, you create an impression of spaciousness and openness. Without barriers, buyers can better visualize the potential of the space, envisioning the placement of their furniture and desired layout without limitations. 

Secondly, doors can subconsciously influence the speed at which people move through a house. They act as stop signs, causing people to pause and open them, which may disrupt the flow of a viewing. Without doors, visitors can move from one room to the next without hindrance, leading to a more enjoyable and less interrupted experience. This seamless transition can even help potential buyers develop a stronger emotional connection with the home, as they can imagine living in the space more freely.

Doors can also hide or obscure the potential and charm of your rooms. For instance, a beautiful view or a cozy fireplace can go unnoticed if the door to that room is closed. By removing it entirely, you put your home's best features on full display, which could make a massive difference for potential buyers. Of course, there are certain exceptions to this rule. Bathroom doors, for instance, should ideally be left intact to maintain privacy. But during an open house, it might be beneficial to keep them open to promote continuity and keep the focus on the bathroom layout and design features.

Removing doors also has another intriguing advantage: It can reveal areas for possible improvements. Door frames that have suffered from wear and tear over the years can easily go unnoticed. With the doors removed, you might spot areas that require a quick touch-up before the open house, preventing minor defects from becoming dealbreakers. While this out-of-the-box strategy might seem odd initially, it could be the key to making your home stand out in a competitive real estate market. It's all about showcasing your home in the best possible light and getting it sold; sometimes, that means removing a few doors!