Do I have to leave my house during showings?

Question 1

Kathleen Militello · Accepted Answer

Yes, it helps enormously to be out of the house during showings, because buyers talk freely and imagine their own lives when you are not there. Open houses are optional and I will be honest about whether one helps in your neighborhood. I know it feels strange to hand your keys to a stranger and leave, but the showing goes better without you: buyers linger, agents give honest feedback, and offers follow curiosity. I will handle the schedules, the access, and the security. On open houses, here is what I really think: they are a visibility tool, not a magic bullet. In some North Shore markets they bring in the right local buyers; in others, private showings do the work. I will recommend the mix that fits your home. Either way, you keep control. Showings happen at times you approve, and I keep the calendar organized so your life is not disrupted more than it needs to be. Coastal buyers often come from Boston or out of state on weekend house-hunting trips, so weekend availability matters on the North Shore. Previewing a coastal home in good weather can make the difference in how seriously it is considered.

Question 2

Should I have an open house?

Kathleen Militello · Accepted Answer

Yes, it helps enormously to be out of the house during showings, because buyers talk freely and imagine their own lives when you are not there. Open houses are optional and I will be honest about whether one helps in your neighborhood. I know it feels strange to hand your keys to a stranger and leave, but the showing goes better without you: buyers linger, agents give honest feedback, and offers follow curiosity. I will handle the schedules, the access, and the security. On open houses, here is what I really think: they are a visibility tool, not a magic bullet. In some North Shore markets they bring in the right local buyers; in others, private showings do the work. I will recommend the mix that fits your home. Either way, you keep control. Showings happen at times you approve, and I keep the calendar organized so your life is not disrupted more than it needs to be. Coastal buyers often come from Boston or out of state on weekend house-hunting trips, so weekend availability matters on the North Shore. Previewing a coastal home in good weather can make the difference in how seriously it is considered.

Do I have to leave my house during showings?

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