Can You Be Home During a House Showing?

Selling a home often involves house showings, which are structured opportunities for potential buyers to explore a property. This process allows interested parties to visualize themselves living in the space and assess its suitability for their needs. A common question arises for homeowners during this period: should they be present when their home is being shown?

The Primary Recommendation: Why Absence is Best

Real estate professionals consistently advise homeowners to be absent during showings. The owner’s presence can create an uncomfortable atmosphere for potential buyers, making them feel like they are intruding. Buyers may hesitate to explore freely, open closets, or discuss their thoughts with their agent if the homeowner is nearby. This inhibits their ability to truly envision themselves living in the property.

Furthermore, a homeowner’s presence can hinder the buyer’s agent from effectively performing their role. Agents need to openly discuss the property’s features or potential issues with their clients without feeling observed or concerned about offending the owner. An owner might unintentionally disclose information that could weaken their negotiation position or react defensively to buyer comments, which can jeopardize a potential sale. The goal is to create an uninhibited experience for the buyer, allowing them to form a personal connection with the home.

When Your Presence is Necessary

While absence is generally preferred, some uncommon scenarios make a homeowner’s presence unavoidable or even beneficial. For instance, a property might possess unique or complex features, such as intricate smart home systems or custom-built elements, that only the owner can adequately explain. In such cases, the homeowner’s specialized knowledge can be valuable.

Another situation involves extremely limited showing windows, making it impractical for the homeowner to consistently vacate the premises. These instances are exceptions to the general rule and should be thoroughly discussed and pre-approved with the real estate agent. The agent can then strategize how to best manage the showing to mitigate any potential discomfort for buyers.

Guidance If You Are Present

If circumstances necessitate your presence during a house showing, strategic planning can minimize disruption. It is advisable to remain discreet and in the background, perhaps in a separate area of the home or even outside, to allow buyers the space they need. Avoid direct interaction with potential buyers unless their agent specifically addresses you or asks a question only you can answer.

Refrain from proactively offering information, highlighting features, or answering questions unless prompted. Your real estate agent is trained to present the home and manage buyer inquiries, ensuring information is conveyed effectively and strategically. Allowing the buyer’s agent to lead the showing empowers them to guide buyers through the property and discuss openly with their clients. The focus should be on creating an environment where buyers feel comfortable exploring the home, even with your presence.