In this episode of Real Estate First Friday, hosts Matthew Hodge and Luis Fermin of LPT Realty sit down with Mike Bernier—top-tier real estate coach, brokerage owner, and open house expert—to unpack the systems that turn open houses into serious lead-generation machines. Mike shares how he built one of the most effective open house frameworks in the industry, blending signage, social strategy, pattern interrupts, and unique consumer-facing programs to attract, engage, and convert buyers in any market. Learn how to convert more buyers through pattern interrupts and genuine conversations that drive connection and conversion. Discover the signage and balloon strategy that actually boosts traffic, and how to leverage neighborhood engagement to win new listings. Mike shares how to use assumable FHA rates and creative finance options to stand out, turn open houses into a consistent, predictable lead source, and even host for other agents when you don’t have your own listings.  This episode breaks down the mindset, frequency, and systems behind high-performing agents—and how to create lasting buzz, credibility, and visibility in your community. KEY POINTS  Open houses still work; most agents just do them wrong The two keys to success: Get traffic + convert traffic Use pattern interrupts to break predictable buyer behavior A feedback form creates instant engagement and follow-up Display consumer-facing programs (like Knox Home Swap or renovation credits) Highlight assumable FHA/VA loans to attract serious buyers Post tent cards and feature signs in each room to guide attention Use massive signage + balloons to increase traffic visibility Treat open houses as a system, not a one-off event Consistency over intensity (3–4 every month) for compounding results QUOTES  “Open houses don’t fail… agents just fail to systemize them.” “You can’t have conversion without conversation.” “Break the buyer’s pattern. That’s where the connection starts.” “Consistency beats intensity every single time.” “If you’re just a little better than the last ten agents, your conversion rate skyrockets.” “Treat open houses like a part-time job, and they’ll pay like one.” RESOURCES:  GUEST RESOURCES Mike Bernier Website | realtygroupmn.com/about-mike  Learn from the Best Brokerage Now! @lpt realty