Tips on Showing Your Home

When it’s time for your agent to show your home, all your preparations will be worth the effort. Here are a few final tips that can add that extra touch.

• The television and radio should be turned off. Let the salesperson and buyer talk, free of disturbances.

• Be absent during showings. Many prospects feel like intruders when the owners are present. They tend to hurry away, or fail to ask the questions they’d really like to ask. Your absence will put buyers at ease, and give them a chance to spend more time looking at your home and absorbing its advantages.

• Leave drapes open for light and airiness. If it’s evening, all lights should be turned on to give the rooms a larger appearance and a cheerful effect.

• Be sure the kitchen sink is free of dishes and rooms are uncluttered. Make sure trash baskets are empty.

• Prepare a fire for open houses. Set out a game, a book, or a hobby project. Set out nice towels in kitchen and bathrooms.

• Make sure rugs are clean and straight. Set a comfortable temperature. Do a “once-over” cleaning—vacuum, sweep, and dust. Final check every room.

• Open windows to freshen rooms. Set tables with flowers and linens.

• If buyers just drop by and aren’t accompanied by a real estate agent, it’s best not to show your home. Ask for their names and phone number, and provide it to your agent for follow-up. (Most agents screen calls so you don’t waste time showing to someone who isn’t qualified or, worse yet—a potential burglar.)

• Always keep your home ready to be shown. Your agent will try to give you as much advance warning as possible. Similarly, other agents may call to arrange showings, so always be prepared.

• The salesperson knows the buyer’s requirements and can better emphasize the features of your home when you don’t follow along. You will be called if needed.

• Let your Real Estate Professional discuss price, terms, possession and other factors with the customer. Your Real Estate Professional is better qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.

• Let your agent show your home even when you’re not there. If you don’t, you’re limiting your prospects—and actually keeping your house off the market for potential buyers.