The appetizers are ready, the house looks perfect, you’re dressed for the occasion, and you’ve found just the right tunes to welcome everyone. It’s time to get this party started!

Only… no one shows up.

If anything like this has ever happened to you, you know what a bummer it can be. There’s nothing worse than planning a party that doesn’t happen. But ifthe “party” you were planning is really an open house, it’s not just a bummer, it’s also a wasted opportunity. If you want to make sure that your next open house goes off without a hitch, follow these 3 tips:

1. Invite all your closest friends.

Start with people you know might be interested in the property, and let them know personally about your upcoming open house. Spread the word to agents you know so they can notify their buyers and potentially even stop by themselves. Reach out to past clients or prospects who are interested in the area. Everyone loves to scope out an open house, and people are often flattered by a personal invitation.

2. Let the world know

Remember all those packed-house ragers in college? They got that way because everyone knew there was a party going on at the Delta house. The updated version of tacking your fliers on the bulletin board in the student center? Advertising your open house online, everywhere you can. Don’t forget to mention it on your own social media pages in addition to the big-name sites – not only is that a great way to get in some bonus local real estate marketing, but it will also target the people who know you best.

3. Give them a sign

You can invite as many people as you want, but if they can’t find your open house, they won’t show up. Make sure the house is marked with a bold, easy-to-read real estate sign. Use directional units shaped like an arrow or a house to pull traffic from surrounding streets, and consider adding an “Open House” rider to your regular yard post and panel sign in order to build interest leading up to the actual open house date.