There were 9 brokers open houses in Hoboken today, obviously a sign that sellers have waited for after August to list their properties in order to hit the market in September (a much busier time in the real estate market).  But 9 brokers open houses is a lot in one day.  When you get a new listing, a good realtor will host an open house to the other offices & agents in town in order to give them the opportunity to preview a property when it first hits the MLS.  To me this is one of the best ways to market your listing by giving it the most exposure possible, not only to the public but specifically to other realtors.  It's a great way to introduce your listing to others and it allows you the ability to explain all the details and specifics of the listing.  Lunch or desert will be served to make it more attractive for agents to take the time to attend.  Today's open houses consisted of anything from an actual barbeque to special homemade deserts.  Some realtors offer a contest (raffle for a prize) instead of serving food.  The more that attend, the better.  And if you really want to get specific feedback, the listing agent will have everyone who attends fill out a survey asking them for their opinions on pricing, how the unit shows and any suggestions on how they would  improve the way the property shows.