Here are some unwritten etiquette rules sellers should follow to show their home – and themselves – in the best possible light.
Leave
Sure, you’re dying to know if prospective buyers will love what you’ve done with the kitchen, but Realtors agree sellers should not be there lurking in the shadows during a showing or open house. Buyers don’t feel as comfortable when the owner is at the home watching their every move. You want them to start picturing themselves living there instead of being spied on.
Take your pets with you
You may think your dog is cute, but not everyone will have the same opinion. In addition to having allergies, some home shoppers may not be in the market for a run-in with an animal they don’t know. Take your dog for a car ride, to the dog park, or for a long walk. It will do you both good!
Move your car
Make it easy for visitors to park and view the home. No one likes parking issues. Having them is a sure way to get a viewing off to a bad start. In fact, if potential buyers have to park a block away and walk, they may just skip taking the tour of your home. Or if they’re willing to make the hike, they may be in a lousy mood by the time they enter your home.
Lay out important documents
If questions arise while buyers are on the premises, it may help them decide to put in an offer that much faster if they can find answers quickly and in writing. Leaving necessary documents in an easy to find spot isn’t just good for selling, it’s also good selling etiquette. Put out the home inspection report, appraisal, home warranty, monthly bill information and proof of any major repairs are all good things to let people look through when they are considering buying your home.
Offer some refreshments
House hunters can get parched and you can help! Putting out a few small bottles of water is always appreciated. You can also put out light and easy, grab to go type of refreshments such as cookies or mints.
Be patient waiting for feedback
Of course, you’re dying to know what buyers thought of your home, but that information may not flow back to you instantaneously. Buyers often want to process what they’ve seen and think it over before making an offer. If one comes through, you’ll hear about it! It is reasonable to ask your Realtor for feedback after a showing, but understand that it may take a day or two for the buyer’s agent to respond.
Don’t be greedy
Who doesn’t want top dollar for their home? But an unwillingness to negotiate can kill a possible deal and keep your home on the market long after you were hoping to be unpacking at your new place. Focusing on your bottom line is always important, but greed can lead to disaster. Remember a little of something is better than nothing. Generosity will lead you to your promise land.
Listen to the professionals
If your Realtor has some suggestions for improvements that may help the home sell faster, take them to heart but don’t take them personally. Keep the emotions out and listen to what a licensed and trained professional has to say about the house, be it a Realtor or inspector.
