A Seller’s Checklist for a Perfect Home Showing

A Seller’s Checklist for a Perfect Home Showing

1.0 The Goal of a Showing: Creating an Emotional Connection

A showing is more than just a tour of your property; it’s emotional marketing. The goal is to create an experience that allows potential buyers to emotionally connect with the space and envision themselves living there. When a buyer can picture their future in your home, they are far more likely to make a strong offer. A well-prepared home feels welcoming, spacious, and cared for. This guide will walk you through the key steps to ensure every showing is a success.

2.0 Setting the Stage: Appealing to the Five Senses

A memorable showing engages all the senses. Here’s how to create the perfect atmosphere.

  • Sight: Let Your Home Shine
    This is the most important sense to appeal to. Before any showing, ensure your home is sparkling clean, completely decluttered, and depersonalized (store away family photos and personal items). Turn on every single light in the house and open all the blinds and curtains to make the space feel as bright and open as possible. For a room-by-room list, see our Detailed Home Showing Checklist.
  • Smell: Keep it Clean and Neutral
    Your home should smell fresh and clean, but not overpowering. Avoid strong artificial air fresheners, scented candles, or cooking foods with heavy odours. The best scents are subtle and natural. Consider airing out the house for an hour before a showing or simmering a cinnamon stick on the stove. If in doubt, a clean, neutral scent is always the best choice.
  • Sound: Create a Calming Ambiance
    Silence can sometimes feel awkward. Playing soft, neutral background music at a low volume (think classical, smooth jazz, or ambient music) can help create a relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere that encourages buyers to linger.
  • Touch: Add Subtle Comfort
    Small details can make a home feel more luxurious and comfortable. Consider putting out fresh, plush towels in the bathrooms, adding a soft throw blanket to the sofa, and ensuring all surfaces are clean and pleasant to the touch.

3.0 The Final Touches: Your Pre-Showing Ritual

In the final minutes before a buyer arrives, run through this quick checklist:

  • All lights are on.
  • All blinds and curtains are open.
  • Toilet seats are down.
  • Countertops are clear of clutter.
  • The temperature is set to a comfortable level.
  • Pets are secured or have been taken out of the house.

4.0 The Most Important Step: Leave the Property

It can be tempting to stay and “sell” your home to viewers, but this is almost always a mistake. Buyers feel uncomfortable and rushed when the homeowner is present. They won’t open closets or have honest conversations with their agent about the home’s pros and cons. Giving buyers the space and freedom to explore on their own is one of the most important things you can do to help them connect with your home.

For a complete overview of the selling journey, return to the Ultimate Guide to Selling a Home in Edmonton.

Common Seller FAQs

If you’re ready to sell or have more questions, you can contact us here.

What to look for in a house checklist?

When looking for a house, a checklist should cover the structure (foundation, roof, exterior), systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical), and interior and exterior features (rooms, storage, windows, yard). It’s also crucial to consider location (neighborhood, commute, schools) and costs beyond the mortgage, like utilities and potential repairs.

What is the hardest month to sell a house?

The hardest months to sell a house are typically January and December, followed by February. This is because of the holiday season, cold weather, fewer active buyers, and families’ reluctance to move during the school year. 

What brings good luck when selling a house?

To bring good luck when selling a house, many traditions suggest burying a statue of St. Joseph or practicing Feng Shui principles like decluttering, improving curb appeal, and ensuring the front door is welcoming and well-maintained.

What decreases property value the most?

Poor maintenance, poor curb appeal, outdated design, and negative environmental or neighborhood factors.

What is the best month to sell a house in Canada?

The best time to sell a house in Canada is generally in spring (March to May), when buyer activity is highest due to warmer weather, the desire to move before the school year, and homes looking their best. May is often cited as the peak month for sales and premiums, although listing in March or April can help you stand out before the market gets crowded.

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