Much has been written about the pros and cons of Open Inspections versus taking individual buyers through properties by way of personal inspection with the agent.
Without opening up a can of worms, the salesperson in me favours personal inspection because it is a better service for both buyer and home seller, and gives me the chance to get to know each purchaser and ascertain who will pay the most for the property.
Most sellers leave the property during an Open Inspection, but what is the etiquette with personal inspections?
Although good agents like it if you can meet prospective purchasers – they say that this reduces the risk of buyers making low offers – when the inspection gets underway it is best if you (and your pets if possible) are not home.
Too many people in a property can make it look small – have you ever felt this at an Open Inspection, when hoards of ‘lookers’ are squeezing past each other?
If you do stay home during a personal inspection, do not remain in the most appealing room. Buyers will be conscious of their intrusion into your life; they rarely feel relaxed when you are in the same room.
Genuine buyers take their time to inspect a property, so give them plenty of time to savour the best rooms in the property.
If you trust the agent, let the agent stay with the buyers. And don’t expect the agent to point out all the obvious features.
Some of the best salespeople are silent when buyers are inspecting a home. The time for most questions is after the inspection, or if the buyers require a second or third inspection.
Written by Gary Pittard
This article is adapted from the seller booklet, How To Get the HIGHEST PRICE for Your Property. To have a complimentary copy home delivered, please contact us.
