You’ve listed your home - now it’s time to prepare for viewings
A little preparation will help ensure every showing goes smoothly.
Notice Required for Showings
While you may stay during a showing, it’s best to leave so buyers can explore comfortably and picture themselves living in your home. Discuss with your Agent how much advance notice you need to vacate—commonly one to two hours. Your agent can also block off times when showings are not possible, such as weekends when you have guests.
Showing Time Length
Showings are typically scheduled for 30 minutes to one hour. When possible, allow one-hour time slots to accommodate buyers or agents running late and to avoid missing potential viewings. Shorter slots may work during the first few days on market if demand is high.
Create a Quick-Exit Checklist
If you are still living in the home, create a simple checklist that helps you prepare quickly while keeping the home inviting for buyers. Consider including:
- Turn on lights throughout the home
- Load or put away dishes
- Store laundry and personal items out of sight
- Make beds and tidy surfaces
- Close toilet lids
- Clear counters and store small appliances
- Play soft background music if available
- Light the fireplace in cooler months
- Leave property brochures or feature sheets visible
- Take pets with you, or safely secure them in a closed room with a notice on the door
- Bring keys, phones, and essentials with you
Returning Home After a Showing
Before returning, check whether buyers are still at the property. If there is a car in the driveway, they may be running behind schedule or spending extra time in the home because they are interested. If possible, wait nearby until they leave.
Proper preparation helps buyers feel at home—and can make all the difference in a successful sale.
