Tips on Showing Your Property

I firmly believe that homes sell themselves. Think about the first time you walked into your home, you may not have known the exact reason, but you knew it was the one. The average buyer sees about ten homes before deciding, A good showing makes a good first impression and, generally, sets the stage for an easier more-profitable sale. Most of this is common sense, but selling a home is usually just a part of some larger project, it’s easy to overlook the obvious when there’s so much going on.

1. Keep it simple. Make your home available for showings at any reasonable time. Requiring 24-48 hours advance notice or making the viewing process overly complex discourages showings. Be prepared for sudden showings on weekends and early evenings when buyers and agents tend to be touring. You may not get a second chance for that out-of-town buyer who’s here to find a home today.
   
   
2. Company’s coming. Make your home look its best. (See Making a Good Impression)
   
   
3. Let your home speak for itself. Prospective buyers may feel pressured or become uncomfortable touring a home while the sellers present. Run an errand, spend some time with your neighbors, or go to one of our area’s many events or attractions
   
   
4. Take Your Dog for a walk. Nothing scares away buyers like a barking dog or hissing cat. Also, many people have allergies. If possible, send your pets to visit with family or friends, or at the very least keep them in a confined area during scheduled showings.

After you accept an offer, there are still a few things you will need to do before you move on to the final walkthrough and the settlement table.

1. Including the exclusions. The agreement you both signed is likely to include a list of exclusions. Remove only the items you agreed would be removed, replace any items you agreed would be replaced. If you agreed to leave it, leave it.
   
   
2. Keep good records. Be prepared to present any receipts and/or certifications for work or actions required by the agreement of sale. If, for example, an FHA inspection required you to have the electrical service upgraded by a licensed Electrician, make sure you have copies of the invoice and any approvals you received
   
   
3. A Clean Sweep. Leave your home in "Broom Clean" condition. Get rid of all trash. Don’t leave any unpleasant surprises for your buyers.