See also...Preparing Your Home To Sell

9 Minute Showing Drill

Occasionally you will receive a call to schedule a showing to take place within the next few minutes.  The following is a checklist for this type of panic:

Sound  Turn off the television and tune the radio (low volume) to a soft rock, middle of the road or classic rock station.

Sight  Turn on every light in the house (day or night) and open every drape and blind (day time only).

Odors  Heat some frozen pastry slowly in the oven or heat a pan on the stove and then drop in a few drops of vanilla.

Kitchen  Wipe kitchen counters, place dirty dishes in dishwasher.

Bathrooms  Wipe counters, flush and close toilets.

Living/Family Rooms  Hide magazines, newspapers, and games; remove clutter.

Bedrooms  Straighten beds.  Hide clutter under bed (not in closet).

Exterior  Put away toys and clutter.  Keep walkways clear.

Children & Pets  They are a distraction, please send them outside.

Say Goodbye,  This is the single most important thing you can do in a showing to help sell your home! Even if the showing agent insists that it is okay to stay, you must leave.  Buyers must get emotionally committed to your home to buy it and they cannot become emotional about 'their new home' if you, the current owners, are 'hanging around'.  Please, at the very least, go into the backyard or excuse yourself for a walk around the block.