I was showing houses over the weekend and ran into a situation that just plain bugs me.  If you call me to list your home we will sit down and carefully go over your wants and needs from the sale as well as other issues.  One of those issues is showings.

I can not for the life of me understand why there is any reason for the owner to be present for a showing.  GET OUT!!!  I am not trying to be rude, but no one wants to see a home with its current owner inside.  It almost eliminates the home from consideration immediately.  Look at it from a buyers perspective.  When you go into look at a potential home you want to imagine it as your own.  I have rarely been on a showing where the client has not had a "constructive comment" on what they would do differently.  This is not a process they can go through if the homeowner is present.  The buyers feel the need to keep saying things like "You have a beautiful home." even when that's not the case.

I had the pleasure of being shown a house this weekend, turn of events I know.  Now, my showing style consists of opening the door, stepping back and being available for any questions.  Today, however,  I was in for a real treat.  My clients and I were walked from room to room getting the play by play of every last detail.  We were even informed of where electric outlets were and that a new faucet was being aquired for a sink or two.  Of all the houses I saw that day the only thing I can remember about this home was the owner.  How can I forget. 

No one wants to make a negative comment about anothers taste or style in front of them, and no one wants to be on a guided tour of a house.  If there are concerns of theft, which is understandable, then have your agent accompany each showing, but please don't hurt your chances of selling by staying home or, worse yet, giving tours.  Let us do our job, that's why we are here.

I am a Full Time Pine Island Realtor and Resident.  I specialize in waterfront homes and property, and am anxious to help you in any way that I can. Give me a call today at (239) 313-3632 or shoot me an email to let me know how I can help you.