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$4.5 million Los Angeles home in Crestwood Hills struggled to attract buyers after two quick delistings. The property finally closed in escrow after the listing agents, Claire and Sam O’Connor of O’Connor Estates, staged a “baby rave” open house that turned the house into a living, breathing family environment.

    Delistings have jumped nearly 50 % this summer, with 21 homes pulled for every 100 that hit the market in June—up from just six in 2022—reflecting a shift from a hot seller’s market to a more balanced one. Realtor.com senior economist Jake Krimmel notes that sellers are losing leverage and using delistings to regain control.

    The Crestwood Hills home, priced at $4,495,000, had all the right selling points: a top school district, a pool, and a rare flat, grassy yard. Yet its location just north of Sunset Boulevard made it harder to sell in the new market dynamics. Claire O’Connor knew the listing required a fresh approach.

    Instead of standard photography, the O’Connors highlighted the family‑friendly layout and outdoor space. They turned the first open house into a playful event: a baby rave featuring DJ and children’s entertainer Jason Mesches, who mixed contemporary beats with bubbles and toy instruments. The session combined a playdate, music class, and high‑energy showcase, letting parents watch toddlers explore the home while they experienced the space as a potential family haven.

    The event was designed to make the house feel lived‑in rather than empty. Parents, too, enjoyed the lively atmosphere, and the sight of children playing in the existing rooms helped dispel the notion that kids need oversized bedrooms or dedicated playrooms. The buzz spread quickly on social media, with photos and reels of the rave boosting the listing’s visibility and generating new inquiries—one of which led to the current escrow.

    In a market where attention is scarce, the O’Connors’ strategy of experiential showings proves effective. “In this market, you have to actively sell,” Claire says. Every listing is styled like an ad, with fresh florals, mood‑driven staging, and high‑quality photography, and sometimes that means hosting a baby rave.

    Looking ahead, the agents plan to push the experiential angle further. For an upcoming Hills listing, they’ll host a cacao ceremony and sound bath, tailoring the event to couples seeking quiet luxury and hillside views. “It’s about bringing the soul of a home to life,” Claire explains, noting that in today’s market, that connection can seal the deal.