STAYING FOR YOUR SHOWHOUSE
While it is
not ideal, agents do understand that sometimes circumstances do not permit you to
be absent. This is not a major problem if you just take note of the following recommendations.
1. Children should be Seen and not Heard
This is a
new experience for the kids. Naturally, they are excited, but they will disturb
the professional flow of the showing. Ask them to remain away from the agent
and buyers, to go outside or watch TV. Whatever it is they are allocated to do,
make sure that they remain in one place throughout, with minimal up and down
movement. If they are staying in their room the door MUST be open - do not make visitors feel that are intruding.
2. Ding Dong
If you answer
the door, do so as you would for any welcome guest. The agent will take care of
the introductions. If there is a situation that needs mentioning, perhaps a
sick child in the second bedroom, do so now. You may invite the agent to begin
showing the home and then you may excuse yourself.
3. Low Profile
Discreetly
remain away from the buyers. As helpful as you wish to be, your presence will
be intimidating. They need to be able to discuss the home freely with one
another. And the agent needs to learn from the buyers how they are responding
to your home. Your presence can limit that free communication.
4. What should You Do?
Read a
magazine; sit outside in a comfortable chair; continue with a minor chore or
browse the internet. Pick a room and settle down. When they stop to preview
that room, you may leave, but it's not really necessary. After all, they don't
want to feel that they are chasing you around the house. DO NOT however just
hang around looking like you are waiting for them to leave. Always appear
active and comfortable. If there's a room that you should try not to be in, it
would be the kitchen since buyers - generally - spend more time there as they
evaluate appliances, counter space, cabinets etc.
5. Conversing with the Buyers
If you are
asked a question about a neighbourhood, schools etc., by all means answer
pleasantly. However, avoid being engaged in a conversation. Questions regarding
terms of sale should be referred to the agent. If the agent is a cooperating
broker and does not have the answers, advise him that your agent will contact
him. If you are asked why you are selling, make sure you have a pre-prepared
response put together with your agent. “Our neighbours are too noisy” will not
help your cause.
6. Inclusions
The
listing sheet should clearly identify items that are included and excluded in
the offered property. Don't initiate conversations about other personal
property that you may be interested in negotiating. It rarely is a deal
clincher, may be distracting, and besides, there will be a time to discuss this
when the offer is presented.
7. Let the "Pro" Work
As much as
you love your home, don't be tempted into doing the agent's job. They have been
working with the buyers and should know what is important to them. Whether the
agent mentions your new counter top oven now, or after they leave, is in his hands.
You have done all that you can. Now, relax as we do our job. Soon, we will be calling you to say: "Congratulations! We have an offer to present to you."
Back to Sellers Guide Section 9 - Having a Showhouse
1. Children should be Seen and not Heard
2. Ding Dong
3. Low Profile
4. What should You Do?
5. Conversing with the Buyers
6. Inclusions
7. Let the "Pro" Work
You have done all that you can. Now, relax as we do our job. Soon, we will be calling you to say: "Congratulations! We have an offer to present to you."
Back to Sellers Guide Section 9 - Having a Showhouse
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