During a showing it can be nerve wracking, exciting, and maybe a bit overwhelming. There is nothing to worry about. This little post will give some guidelines on what to do with yourself during a showing of your home.
Relax. There is nothing more to do. Pick up a Magazine while waiting and try to be understanding. The agent might be showing more than one home and may be a few moments early or late. It is difficult to be precise on time.
If you own a dog, keep it out of the scene. Pet lovers will be wanting to pay attention to the dog and might miss some key features of your home being pointed out, or if they do not like pets they will find it a bit bothersome- which in the long run might affect their feelings about the home. 
Children can be seen, but try to keep them out of the way. It is a new experience for the kids, and they might be excited. However, this might interrupt the professional flow of the showing. Ask them to stay away from the agent and the buyers and to go outside or watch television.
When the doorbell rings or you hear that knock on the door, answer as you would any welcome guest. The agent will take care of the introductions. If there is a situation that needs mentioning (such as a sick child in the third bedroom) do so now. You can invite the agent to start showing your home and then you can excuse yourself.
Keep a low profile. It is best if you discreetly remain away from the buyers. As helpful as you wish to be, you might intimidate the buyers. They need to be able to discuss the home freely with one another. Being there might make them uncomfortable to say what they think so they can figure out if this is the home of their dreams. The agent needs to learn from the buyers how they are responding to your home. Your presence can limit that free communication.
Then what should you do? Read a magazine, watch television, or take a walk outside. Pick a room and settle down. When they stop to preview that room, you may leave- but that isn’t necessary.After all, they don’t want to feel that they are chasing you around the house. If there was one room that you should probably avoid being in while they are there, it is the kitchen. Buyers generally spend most of their time in the kitchen evaluating appliances, counter space and cabinets.
If you are asked questions from the buyers, you are welcome to answer pleasantly. Do avoid, however, becoming engaged in a conversation. Questions regarding terms of sale should really be directed towards the agent, however.
The listing sheet should clearly identify items that are included and excluded in the offered property. Don’t initiate conversations about other personal property you might be interested in including with the sale. It is more distracting than a deal clincher. Besides, there is time to discuss this at the offer presentation time.
Just let the “pro” work. As much as you love your home, don’t be tempted into doing the agent’s job. It will be distracting to the buyers, and the agent has gotten to know the buyers and know what to mention in the showing. Whether the agent mentions your new refrigerator now, or after they leave, is in his hands.
Just know that I am here to help. I will be there to guide all buyers through your home and there is no need to worry. I will make sure that it will go as smoothly and successfully as possible.
