You Don’t Have to Go Far…but Just Go: Why Sellers Shouldn’t Be Home for Showings
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. You’ve prepped, decluttered, staged (maybe even with a little radiant flair ✨)—and now it’s time to let the buyers walk through. But there’s one tiny thing you might be tempted to overlook:
You really, truly, shouldn’t be home for showings.
Let’s break down why leaving your house—just temporarily—can make a big difference in your final sale.
👀 Buyers Need to Envision
Their
Life, Not Yours
It’s hard for buyers to imagine their new life in your home when the current one is literally sitting on the couch.
Even if you’re tucked away quietly in a bedroom or answering emails in the office, your presence changes the dynamic. Buyers will feel like guests—when what they really need is to mentally move in. They might rush, whisper instead of dream out loud, and skip asking key questions.
Your goal? Let them explore freely, envision openly, and fall in love without distractions.
😬 Awkwardness = Missed Opportunity
Home showings can get awkward if the seller is present—period.
Even if you’re friendly and just want to be helpful, it often makes buyers uncomfortable. They may feel like they can’t give honest feedback, linger too long, or inspect closets, cabinets, or storage the way they normally would. That’s a missed opportunity to highlight what your home really offers.
Trust me—your agent has it covered. This is what we do!
🧘♀️ Energy Matters (Yes, Really)
A home’s energy can shift based on who’s in it.
If you’re nervous, rushed, or emotionally attached to the house, buyers can pick up on it—even if you don’t say a word. Removing yourself from the space lets the home speak for itself… and the energy stays light, neutral, and welcoming.
Remember: a calm and open vibe encourages serious offers.
📈 Bonus: You Might Sell Faster
Statistically, homes where the seller vacates for showings spend less time on the market. Why? Because buyers get the full experience. They stay longer, imagine more, and are more likely to emotionally connect with the space.
Even better? They’ll often offer closer to asking—or above—when they’ve had time to fully picture their future there.
🧡 Pro Tip from the Radiant REALTOR®
Pop out for a coffee. Take a walk around the block. Run a quick errand. You don’t have to go far… but you do need to go. Your future buyer might be pulling into the driveway!
Let your home shine without you in it—just for a bit—and you’ll be surprised how quickly the right buyer sees the light. ☀️
Thinking of listing your home?
Let’s talk staging, strategy, and how to make every showing a radiant success.
📲 708-852-4550
Katie O’Brien, Licensed REALTOR® & Stager in IL & IN
Radiant REALTOR® | VRS Realty
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