Let your home smile at buyers when the agent shows the house. You want to create an atmosphere where they can see themselves in your home, so remove personal items like photographs, and let your home shine!
Think Ahead – When you leave the house in the morning or during the day, leave it as if you know it is going to be shown.
Safety First – Keep stairways and floors clear. Avoid cluttered appearances and possible injury.
Let the Sun Shine In – Open draperies and curtains in order to let the prospects see your cheerful home. Dark rooms do not appeal. This makes the house appealing from the inside and outside!
Can You See the Light? – Illumination is like a welcome sign. The potential buyer will feel glowing warmth when you turn on all the lights for an evening inspection.
Pets Underfoot? – Keep them out of the way – preferably out of the house. Many people are uncomfortable around animals and may even be allergic to them.
A Fresh Smell Can Trigger a Positive Response – Conversely, a bad odor can mean bad news. Strategically place air fresheners throughout your home and also spray any soft surfaces, especially if you have pets or smoke. If you smoke, clean ashtrays daily and smoke outside.
Keep Up With Daily Chores – Keep dirty dishes out of the sinks and keep trash bins empty. Make sure the beds are made and your pets are cleaned up after. Wipe down counters, if needed.
Music is Mellow – But not when showing a house. Turn off the blaring radio or television. Let the salesperson and buyer talk free of disturbances.
Silence is Golden – Be courteous, but don’t force conversation with potential buyers. They want to inspect your house, not pay a social call.
Three’s a Crowd – Avoid having too many people present during inspections. The buyer will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house.
In the Background – The salesperson knows the buyer’s requirements and can better emphasize the features of your house when you don’t tag along. You will be called if needed.
Be It Ever So Humble – Never apologize for the appearance of your home. After all, it has been lived in. Let the trained salesperson answer any objectives. This is their job.
Why Put the Cart Before the Horse? – Trying to dispose of furniture and furnishings to the potential buyer before he has purchased the house often loses the sale.
A Word to the Wise – Let your Real estate agent discuss price, terms, possession, and other factors with the client. They are eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.
Use Your Agent – Show your home to prospective clients only by appointment through your agent. Your cooperation will be appreciated and will help close the sale more quickly.