Viewing and show day etiquette is an important element of the selling process
Category Property Tips
Regardless of how digitally advanced the world of property becomes, the need for physical viewings and show houses will remain an essential element of the selling process.
It is often only once the buyer sees the property that they fall in love. It is this emotional connection which buyers make that then leads them to a serious commitment to buy. It will often also influence the price that they are prepared to pay for the property.
For sellers, the important take-out from this is that they need to stage the property and make it easy for buyers to almost immediately fall in love with what they see.
Some preparation and etiquette for sellers include:
Be accommodating when there is a need to view or to arrange a show day. It is often during these times that the right buyer comes along!
Ensure the property is neat and tidy and in a show house condition. Remove all personal and intimate items (especially from the bathroom and master bedroom). Put away all valuables when there is a showing.
Temporarily remove any animals (along with their bedding and feeding/water bowls ) or put them in an enclosed area. While pet friendly properties are a draw-card for some, not all people are pet lovers, and some may even have allergies.
Remember to hide any laundry and to put out fresh towels. You could also add some greenery or flowers to make the property feel welcoming. A little vanilla essence in a slighly warmed oven leaves the property with a lovely, homely smell.
It is best that sellers are not present during the viewings, as this makes buyers uncomfortable and the buyer then does not always give the agent truthful, transparent feedback on their thoughts on the property. Rather trust your agent to do all the liaison and lead the buyer to an offer.
Following the show day or viewing your property professional should usually provide the relevant feedback to the seller and will also follow up with all buyers.
Buyers in turn generally also ask questions during the viewing such as:
What is excluded from the sale? With modern décor, it is often easy to assume an item is a fixture and it is therefore best that the agent can verify this during the viewing.
What are the average utility costs and monthly rates?
Buyers also often ask about schools or other amenities if they are not familiar with the area, or if there are specific facilities that they may need access to.
Buyers may also ask about the area and neighbours so as to get a sense of the type of community in order to assess how their lifestyle and habits may fit into the surroundings. Your agent should be able to furnish this information.
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Author: Gina Meintjes
