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A little help from a Realtor...
Written by Julie McCormick
REALTOR MK Partners Inc.
7.18.22
So your house is clean, staged and ready for showings. Now what?
Let's talk about security. You should never let a potential client just show up at your door. Every client that comes into your home should have an appointment with a Realtor (except during an Open House where a Realtor is present). The buyer's Realtor should have required the buyer to provide a "pre-approval letter' for a loan, or a 'proof of funds' letter for a cash offer, before scheduling a showing. This is for your physical safety, and to not waste your time with an unqualified buyer.
Cash, jewelry, prescriptions, weapons, sensitive information & expensive breakable items should be stored in a safety deposit box, with you temporarily in your car, or at a relative's house during your Showing period. Clients often have young children that might tale an item, or accidentally break something.
One thing that has personally helped me when I had small children, was to keep a couple of extra laundry baskets around. For a last minute showing you can scoop up toys, shoes, etc. quickly, and toss them into the basket that you can throw into your car. You will need a couple of hampers with lids, to quickly throw in towels and clothes to tidy up.
It is also a good idea to make sure your house smells fresh. Lysol wipes help with this, and it is a quick way to freshen up the countertops and sinks in the house! Just make sure the smell isn't totally overwhelming.
Last but not least, please don't leave your pets at the house for showings. So many things can go wrong, A pet attacks someone in your house, or the pet gets out the door and now your pet is missing. Please do not leave pets in the backyard! Buyers want to see your backyard it is often a big selling point. Please arrange for your pet to go with you in your car, go to a neighbor or family member's backyard, or board them for the weekend for all those showings you are going to have!
Julie McCormick, Oklahoma REALTOR, MK Partners Inc, 179404,