POINTS TO REMEMBER WHEN SHOWING YOUR HOME
- Whenever possible, leave the house during all showings. It is difficult for buyers to be objective about your home when you are there, and they often rush through, feeling as if they are interrupting your daily life.
- Even though it’s not always convenient to show your home during certain hours, the more people who see your home increases the chances one of them will buy it. As long as the time is within reason, isn’t it worth 10 minutes??
- Always remember to keep the house clean and uncluttered. Beds made, dishes out away or in the dishwasher, clothes off the floor, and toys put away.
- Open windows to let fresh air in whenever the weather permits, especially if there are smokers or pets in the house, or keep the heat/air conditioning at a comfortable level.
- Turn on the lights before every showing.
- Turn off the television if you can, and put the stereo on with soft background music.
- If you are home, scented candles create a wonderful inviting aroma. Use air fresheners and carpet refreshing sprays to keep the home smelling pleasant.
- Lock away pets and keep small children occupied so they don’t distract the buyer.
- DO NOT try to sell your house yourself. Let the Realtor and the buyer look around without intrusion so they can take their time and not worry about their conversations being overheard.
- If asked, you can discuss things you know, such as what and where schools and shopping are, age of appliances or major equipment, but keep conversation to a minimum.
WHAT NOT TO DO
NEVER DISCUSS THE FOLLOWING WITH BUYERS OR THEIR AGENTS
- The reason you are a selling.
- Your motivation to sell, timing of your move.
- The price your would be willing to accept or the terms under which you would sell.
- Personal items, or other items you “might” be willing to include in the sale.
- Anything that would undermine your negotiating ability or strategy.
REMEMBER BUYERS AND THEIR AGENTS WANT TO OBTAIN THE LOWEST PRICE AND BEST DEAL FOR THEMSELVES