The Purse or a Pocket Rule when Staging Your Home

I was recently doing a walk through on a potential listing.  The owners had a wonderful collection of little statues in a specific theme.  These were located on coffee tables, end tables in the living and family rooms and on the shelf in the kitchen.  I thought they were delightful but was worried on the owners' behalf that these would be too tempting for visitors, especially when those with children in tow.   

In trying to convince the owners to pack these and all little ornaments and souvenirs, I said "Don't leave anything out and available that could fit in a purse or pocket."  It is not that the people house hunting are thieves.  In fact, so few things are stolen that one forgets that this could happen.  But.....  there is always a first time and no home owner wants this to happen to them.  

I also advise clients to put away anything of extreme value whether it is sentimental of financial.  Buyers like to touch things.  Why risk any damage to your valuables? 

My clients asked if I would be able to follow every visitor during an Open House.  I explained that this is not always possible.  When more than one visitor arrives, it is better to be centrally located.  Often, visitors roam freely while agents locate themselves near the only exit.  Certainly where children are involved, I follow closely.  It would be difficult to miss a TV going out the door but I have no rights to inspect purses or pockets of visitors.  I do ask them to leave big bags by the door.  

Why risk it?  Pack up your worries.

Photo credit:  My sister's S&P Shaker Collection

Why do psychics have to ask you for your name?

Valerie Zinger  email: vzinger@royallepage.com  (613-723-5300)

Royal LePage Gale Real Estate,  Ottawa, Ontario, Canada