Seller’s Safety First Guide To Showings

Selling your home is a thrilling yet sometimes nerve-wracking experience. It's understandable to feel a bit anxious about showings, as opening your doors to strangers can be unsettling. In today's environment, safety concerns are paramount. However, there is no cause for concern. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a variety of practical steps to ensure that your showings are not only secure but also as smooth as possible. From straightforward mindset modifications to the integration of state-of-the-art high-tech solutions, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Adopt a Sold Mindset

When you are getting ready to sell your home, it's beneficial to shift your mindset and visualize it as already sold. This change in perspective not only helps in reducing the emotional stress that comes with showings but also allows you to focus on presenting your home in the most appealing way to capture the interest of potential buyers. By envisioning your home as already sold, you can approach the selling process with a sense of distance that will help you make objective decisions.

Top Tip: When setting up showing requirements, it's crucial to establish clear guidelines and apply them consistently across all potential buyers. For example, if you decide to ask for a copy of a buyer's driver's license before a showing, make sure that this standard is followed by every interested party. This helps create a fair and transparent process for all involved, fostering a sense of trust and professionalism in your real estate transactions.

Create a Remote Showing Plan

In the era of digital transformation, virtual showings have emerged as a significant game-changer in the real estate industry. With the evolution of technology, remote video tours and online open houses have revolutionized the traditional home viewing experience. These virtual platforms not only mitigate health risks and safety concerns but also provide convenience and accessibility to a wider audience. By crafting a comprehensive virtual showing plan, homeowners can offer potential buyers an immersive exploration of their property without the need for physical visits, thereby streamlining the process and enhancing the buyers overall experience of touring your property.

By Appointment Only

Excelusive scheduling showings by appointment should be scheduled for those that meet your particular requirements. This approach ensures you know who is coming and when to expect them and that they have been prequalified to your standard. It also provides the opportunity for you to leave the home, giving potential buyers the space they need to imagine themselves living there.

If you’re working with a listing agent, they will vet and accompany buyers during showings. If you're selling without an agent, establish a vetting system. Request copies of driver's licenses and pre-approval letters from potential buyers. Remember, for safety reasons, you should stay in the property during the showing if you don’t have a Realtor. Alternatively, for additional security you could consider only showing your home to buyers represented.

Secure Small Valuables and Prescriptions

While instances of valuables going missing during showings are uncommon, it's advisable to err on the side of caution. Safeguard your small valuables, medications, and other cherished possessions by either securely storing them in a lockable case or carrying them along with you when attending showings. This extra precaution can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your belongings during property viewings.

Make Your Doorbell Your Eyes and Ears

Installing a Wi-Fi doorbell can truly revolutionize your home security system. These innovative devices not only enable you to monitor visitors arriving and leaving your property but also offer real-time communication capabilities. With a camera doorbell in place, you can swiftly address emergencies or any issues that require your immediate attention, providing an added layer of safety and convenience for showings where you aren’t present.

Remotely Provide Access and Lock Up

Your listing agent, who is responsible for showcasing your property to potential buyers, will usually provide a lockbox to securely store the key to your door. For enhanced security and convenience, you might want to explore the option of installing a smart lock system. These advanced systems offer the flexibility to lock and unlock your door from anywhere using your smartphone or other connected devices. This added feature not only gives you peace of mind but also ensures that your home remains safe and secure even after each showing.

Keep an Eye on the Inside When You Are Away

Using Wi-Fi security cameras is an economical way to keep an eye on your property. However, remember the golden rules:

• No cameras in the bathroom.
• No sound recording, as it may be illegal in some places without permission.
• Notify all parties by placing a notice of surveillance in an obvious place.

Sanitary Hospitality

Keeping your home clean and sanitized is crucial, especially now. Here are additional steps to maintain a healthy environment:

• Schedule only one showing at a time.
• Leave all doors and light switches open to minimize contact.
• Provide hand sanitizer or hand soap for washing.
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
• Maintain a 6-foot distance and avoid physical contact during showings.

Conclusion:

In most cases showings are necessary but in all cases they should be a productive step toward your ultimate goal of selling your property. Being aware of methods of security, sanitation and hospitality for all parties involved is important. By implementing these tips, you can ensure that your showings are both safe and successful.