There's no question local home sales are picking up. The trick is getting the fence sitters off the sidelines.

So realtors came up with a plan: an infusion of open houses this weekend, June 27 and 28, in 75 cities across the state. House hunters who show up will see a lot of price reductions.

We toured a spacious three-bedroom, 1,660-square foot condo in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood that started on the market at $589,000 on the first of May. The price was recently dropped by $30,000.

The asking price on a fully-remodeled four-bedroom, 1,580-square foot home in Seattle's Lakeridge neighborhood was just reduced from $340,000 to $324,000. That's less than the sellers paid for the home three years ago.

A six year old 2,180 square foot, 4 bedroom craftsman in Seattle's Seward Park neighborhood is currently listed at $489,950. In April, it was priced at $508,000. In February, the asking price was $589,900.

A statewide open house push means more exposure for sellers and more contacts for realtors, but most importantly a potential wind fall for consumers who want to see as many homes as possible.

As many as 20 to 30 percent of the homes taking parting in the weekend event are reportedly new to the open house circuit. They've been on the market, but you may have never found out about them.

It's hoped that the added exposure will increase your chance of finding something you like.

Some homes may even have lenders on hand to assist with financing option. But don't feel obligated. Do your homework and find the lender that works best for you.

Try to get pre-approved for a loan, not just pre-qualified, because lenders change the rules in mid-stream and that can stop a transaction in its tracks.

Start looking now for an experienced, independent home inspector. Get recommendations from friends and neighbors and look for a certified inspector who'll be very thorough, and work in your best interest instead of feeling pressured not to find things that might kill the deal.

And take the time to read every document carefully before you sign, no matter how much you may love the home you think you want.

The some of the homes will be open both weekend days. Some will only be open on one day. The expanded open house locations will be published both the Saturday and Sunday in local newspapers across the state this weekend.