Three’s a Crowd
Avoid having too many people during inspections. The potential buyer will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house. Objections that can be overcome by a professional will not be forthcoming when the seller is present.
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. Background “soft playing” music is okay.
Pets Underfoot?
Keep pets out of the way – preferably out of the house. Many people are acutely uncomfortable around some animals.
Silence is Golden
Be courteous but don’t force conversation with the potential buyer. He wants to inspect your house, not pay a social call.
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 objections. This is their job.
Never Stay in Your House with House Hunters
Let the agent handle it, and remove yourself if you possibly can. Remember, the agent has worked many hours with these people and knows what they’re looking for, and how to work with them. Let him or her do the job without interference. You may feel that an agent isn’t showing the important features of your home to the prospect, but the agent knows people aren’t sold by details until they’ve become emotionally involved with the big picture of your home. The presence of any member of the seller’s family can’t help, but always unnerves possible buyers, and often prevents a sale. Don’t put this obstacle in your path, please leave when buyers are coming.
Why Put the Cart Before the Horse?
Trying to dispose of furniture and furnishings to potential buyers before he/she has purchased the house often loses a sale and shows an over-emphasized motivation to sell.
A Word to the Wise
Let your Realtor® discuss price, terms, possession and other factors with the prospect. She is eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.
April 30, 2015