When Your Home Is Shown

Make sure the house looks cheerful and bright. Open draperies and blinds. Turn on lights.

Keep a low profile. If you must be home during a showing try to be in a room that is out of the way.

Make arrangements for your pets. Many buyers are afraid or allergic to animals. If possible, take them for a walk when your home is being shown, or put them in one room with a note on the door.

Remember the buyer agent works for the buyer. Do not disclose anything to another agent you would not want disclosed to a buyer.

Be sensitive to pet and cooking odors. Do not fry fish or make corned beef and cabbage just before a showing.

Keep your home in ready-to-show condition at all times. Agents are always supposed to make appointments prior to showing – but sometimes a short-notice showing is with a well motivated and qualified buyer. It is always best to be ready for short-notice showings.

Handling Questions from Buyers and Agents

These should be OK to answer: Refer these to your listing agent:

What school will our kids attend? Where are you moving to?

Where does the bus run from here? Why are you moving?

Are there any babysitters around here? How long has the house been on the market?

What are the neighbors like? Have you had any other offers?