I just read a post by Scott Godzyk about a sale almost not happening because the seller freaked out when the buyer used his toilet. We agents know that life happens. Buyers and their children and even agents have strong calls of nature when out for period of times looking at homes. This brings up an important point, d0 you let your sellers know that this is a possibility that someone might use the bathroom?
We all have had occasions while showing homes that the little ones just have to go. The parents look over to the agent and ask if it alright to use the bathroom. Though we don't like giving permission we know if we don't that there could be a mess in the floor which would be worse. Besides, who would even consider buying a home if the prospective buyer was banned from using the bathroom?
I have worked with some more elderly clients and they had health issues including not having much bladder capacity. Though we took frequent breaks, it seemed that nature would call just as we arrived to another house. The buyer had to go so what do you do? You have to let him go. Again, I don't like giving the permission (it always makes me uncomfortable) but we have to be able to use good common sense, too. I will not deny someone in need, even myself.
So the question is, if the home is on the market, wouldn't if be better to just prepare the sellers that this possibility may happen? They should have the home ready for showing and that means the bathrooms should be clean and presentable as well. If the seller is an OCD type, and can't bear the thought of someone in the bathroom, then he can do a little extra cleaning after each showing. That should handle it.
I know if I was selling my home and a buyer had a strong need to use the facilities, I would want him to go ahead, use the toilet and go back to looking at the house. Having to hold it, so to speak, takes you mind off the mission at hand of buying a home. I sure don't want the showing to be cut short by a buyer having to rush off to find a public bathroom and never returning.
This is a delicate subject I will be discussing at my future listing appointments. Of course, all medications should be carefully put away when showings are taking place. It is better to prepare the seller for the reality of how it is when showing and looking at homes.
Do You Prepare the Seller Someone Might Use the Bathroom?
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