This little extra consideration when preparing a home....A Welcome Letter

Once the seller has prepared the property for market, there is still one very important thing you can do that will make a big difference in the the co-operating agents' and their Buyers experience of the property.

I prepare a Welcome Letter in larger than normal print size that covers some of the important features in or about the home as well as invites the Buyer's ( As Guests) to enjoy their home and provides a few extra things that will be welcome.

This Welcome Letter is put on a cleared table or console at the entry so it is not missed. The letter is mounted on a stand-up card backing next to the property Brochure.

This table is important as the Agent and Guests (as the Buyers will be referred to) are invited to lay keys, notebooks, papers on it while they tour the home. If the home is a " Remove shoes " residence,  shoe covers are also there along with a chair sitting along side the table to assist the Agent and the guests be comfortable.

The Letter is all important because it covers so many really important things. It invites the Guests and Agent to use the Guest Facilities if needed and to find beverages ( iced tee, colas and water) in the refrigerator. On the table is also placed a bowl of candies ( individually wrapped chocolates or mints) for the Sellers guests. Comment cards and a nice pen are also placed there inviting comments on the home. Many of these things when not spoken about can create awkward moments. By giving permission in advance the Guests and Agent always feel more comfortable.

This letter also has special instructions about details in the house that the Seller wants to remind the REALTOR  or Guests about. An example of that is to leave the lights and music on, to be careful on the steps ( up and down ) and lock all exit doors, turn off ceiling fans, etc.

In the Powder Room or Guest Bath , whichever one is to be used, special hand towels and soaps are provided with a note that they are there for the guests. This clears up the mystery of wondering if these items are OK to use.

If there are items that don't convey such as a favorite light fixture or heirloom , they can be pointed out.

Throughout the home, special cards are attached to items that might be conveyed, such as built-in bookcases, vanities , etc.

On the inside of the front Entrance Door. a THANK YOU for visiting the seller's home, signed in the owners handwriting. This personalized way of directing the showing makes the Agent and Guests feel welcome. It also goes a long way to  make the Guests and Agent feel welcome and respected.

The Comment Cards title is " YOUR COMMENTS are WELCOME and APPRECIATED".