Seller Etiquette: Tips for a Thoughtful House Sale

Did you know that your behavior and actions can affect the sale of your home? That's right. No matter how much effort you've put into cleaning, scrutinizing, and staging your home, one wrong move can easily put off potential buyers. Our REALTORS® have laid out seven etiquette rules that every seller needs to know to nail the deal.

• Leave the House
  Of course, you're dying to see how potential buyers will react to your kitchen upgrade, but most REALTORS® agree that sellers should not be at home during a showing or open house. Buyers will feel uncomfortable when the owner is around and watching their every move. Leaving the house during those times gives buyers the space they need to visualize living there instead of being spied on. And don't be tempted to drop in to see how your open house is going or to pose as a buyer.
  
  
• Take Your Pets With You
  Aside from you and your family leaving the house, it's also important to have a plan for pets. A playful kitten or barking dog running around the house during an open house or showing can be quite distracting. Not everyone is a pet person, and potential buyers could be allergic. Plus, your pet might be anxious and hostile with all the foot traffic and new faces. Provide a comfortable, stress-free environment for everyone by putting away any paraphernalia and taking your pet for a long walk, to the park, or for a drive.
  
  
• Provide Parking
  Make it easy for prospective buyers to park and view the home. Parking issues are frustrating and a sure way to get a showing off to a bad start. If a potential buyer has to park far away and then walk to your home, they may just skip the home tour altogether. Or if they just decide to take the hike, they may be a little nervous or in a lousy mood. Leaving your car in the driveway also sends the message that there isn't enough parking space. Vehicles should be parked inside the garage with the door closed or somewhere down the street.
  
  
• Provide Important Documents
  Buyers are more willing to put in an offer if they can find information about the home quickly and in writing. It is good selling etiquette to leave copies of necessary documents in an easy-to-find spot. Put out home warranty, home inspection report, monthly bill information, appraisal, and proof of any major repairs for buyers to peruse. Be sure to put away originals and any sensitive personal documents.
  
  
• Respond Quickly to Offers
  When a buyer makes an offer, do your best to respond to it quickly, preferably within 24-48 hours. Take the time to go through the offer and think about it. While making a quick decision is a good gesture, this isn't a matter to be taken lightly either. If you want more time, inform your listing agent so they can try to negotiate an extension. Also, don't be insulted if you get a low-ball offer. Respond with a counteroffer and be willing to negotiate.
  
  
• Listen to the Professionals
  You've done a great job of hiring a real estate agent you trust, but don't shoot the messenger. If your agent provides feedback or some suggestions for improvements that may help sell your home faster, listen to them, and don't allow your emotions to get in the way. This is a business transaction, and you need professional guidance to reach your goal of selling your property. Take criticism positively and move on.
  
  

Whether you're adding your home to the list of Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, our pros at Coach Realtors can help you show it off to its best advantage. Contact us to get started.