Want to sell your home without undue issues, quickly and efficiently? After your home is on the market, when we get showings for you, here are some good manners for sellers during showings:
1. Please leave. Don’t stay for showings or open houses. Buyers can’t peruse your home and speak freely about what they like or don’t like in a home and all they can see is you peering around the corner at them, not visualize themselves in the home.
2. Allow access. Clear the driveway so they can park, move furniture so the lanai/patio can be accessed. Make it easy for them to get to and through the home so your belongings don’t create an obstacle.
3. Man’s best friend. We love dogs but not everyone does. If you have a dog, cat or other animal that could interact with the buyers or in any way create a bad impression, allergic reaction, or distraction, take them with you or board them at a neighbor’s temporarily during showings.
4. Have a drink. If you have a chance, put out some bottled water, candies or small nibbles for buyers who come through. Especially when it’s hot, they’ll think you’re really considerate and appreciate your thoughtfulness.
5. Bills, bills, bills. An interested buyer will want to know about your monthly bills so display those in an open area along with any other important information about the house like a new roof, new a/c, home warranty, appraisal or home inspection report.
Your home is your castle but when you’re selling, you’re trying to get someone else to make it their castle. Make it easy on them to visualize themselves there and to have a good impression of the sellers they will be working with.
