Joanna Schmidtchen Blog - Sellers, Shhh, Don't Say It!

I recently showed a property where the 'chatty' seller chose to be present for the viewing.  Here's some advice for you sellers...

When a Prospective Buyer is at your door, and you open with a big smile and say,
"Hi!... Thanks for coming ... Come on in."  You should probable stop there. I'm not talking about hiding anything or lying, I'm talking about unsolicited opinions.

Unless asked, Please don't talk about...
How many kids are in the area.
How strong the local church is - They may be of different faith.
How friendly the neighborhood is - They may want a quiet community.
Information on appliance warranties - unless you are positive of expiration dates and that they are transferable.
How many showings you have had - People interpret this many different ways.

Please don't OFFER the following for reasons you are selling...
A death in the family - Some have phobias about moving into a home where someone has died.
How you've outgrown the house - Do you know how many are in their family?
How small the house is - The house may be plenty big, until you tell them it is too small.
Your recent divorce - Potential buyers experiencing marital problems may be turned off.

If you get the impression that everything you say can be used against you with a potential buyer... you have correctly interpreted this blog!   Instead, say... " Please take your time and make yourself at home, if I do not see you before you leave, thank you for coming. Excuse me, but I have: to walk the dog, important phone call, help the kids." and "let the buyers dream a little".