Setting the Stage for a Successful Showing

You’ve just received the call — buyers are on their way to tour your home. Take a deep breath; with a few simple touches, you can make your property shine and create a lasting first impression. The first few weeks on the market are the most critical, which is why proper pricing and presentation are essential. During this time, your listing will attract the most attention from active buyers who are eager to view new properties. If your home is not priced appropriately or doesn’t show its best, you may miss the opportunity to capture that early interest. Remember, today’s market is competitive — you’re competing with every other home in your price range, both new and pre-owned — so making your home stand out from the start is key to success.

Your front entrance sets the tone for the entire showing. Take a few minutes to sweep the porch, remove toys, shoes, or clutter, and check that the walkway is clean and inviting. Add a touch of charm with a simple doormat or a fresh potted plant. The goal is to make buyers feel welcome before they even step inside — a pristine entryway sends a powerful signal of pride and care.

Scent has a powerful impact on how buyers perceive a space. Before a showing, open windows to let in fresh air and lightly refresh furnishings, drapes, and rugs. Avoid cooking foods that leave lingering odors, such as fish, garlic, or strong spices. Instead, consider lighting a softly scented candle or using a subtle air freshener to create a pleasant, neutral aroma. A home that smells fresh and inviting instantly feels cleaner and more welcoming.

Natural light instantly makes a home feel more open, cheerful, and welcoming. Open all drapes and blinds to let the sunshine in and turn on every light — even during the day. Soft, consistent lighting eliminates dark corners and highlights your home’s best features. If it’s evening, switch on exterior lights as well to create a warm, inviting glow that welcomes buyers from the curb to the front door.

A home that feels open encourages exploration. Keep all interior doors open to promote a smooth flow from room to room. This subtle detail helps buyers experience the layout naturally and imagine how they would live in the space. Open doors also make your home appear larger and more connected — a small touch with a big visual impact.

Sound sets the tone for how buyers feel in your home. Turn off the TV, radio, and loud devices to create a calm, distraction-free environment that allows buyers to focus on the details. If desired, you can play soft, instrumental music at a low volume to enhance the ambiance — but keep it subtle. A peaceful home feels more refined and allows buyers to connect emotionally with the space.

Even small messes can make a space feel smaller or neglected. Take a few minutes before each showing to pick up clutter, load dishes into the dishwasher, wipe down surfaces, and empty trash bins. Smooth out throw blankets, fluff pillows, and make sure counters and tables are clear. A clean, organized space feels luxurious, well-maintained, and move-in ready — just the impression you want to give.

Bedrooms should feel restful and well-kept. Make every bed neatly, smooth out wrinkles, and fluff pillows to create a sense of order and tranquility. Pick up clothing, tidy nightstands, and ensure lamps are dust-free. A clean, well-made bed not only enhances the look of the room but also conveys a feeling of comfort and peace — helping buyers imagine themselves unwinding at the end of the day in their new home.

Before every showing, neatly store children’s toys out of sight. Playrooms should look organized and spacious, allowing buyers to visualize how they might use the area for their own family or lifestyle. A tidy space communicates that the home is well cared for and easy to maintain — qualities every buyer appreciates. Keeping surfaces clear also helps highlight room size and layout, creating a calm and open atmosphere.

Bathrooms speak volumes about how well a home is cared for. Before each showing, wipe down mirrors and countertops, neatly fold towels, and close toilet lids. Add a fresh hand towel or a small vase with greenery for a touch of freshness. The goal is to make the space look spotless and serene, as if it belongs in a boutique hotel. Buyers will notice — and appreciate — the attention to detail.

As much as we love our pets, not every buyer shares that affection. Before showings, remove pet bowls, beds, and toys to minimize distractions. Vacuum hair and neutralize any lingering odors. If possible, take your pets with you or have them safely contained outside the home during tours. This ensures buyers can focus on your property — not your furry family members.

When possible, step out during showings. Buyers feel more at ease when they can explore freely, ask candid questions, and picture themselves living there. If you remain home, they may rush through or hold back honest feedback. Giving them privacy also allows your agent to address questions and highlight your home’s features with confidence and ease.

Keep your home in show-ready condition, even on short notice. The right buyer may want to see your home unexpectedly — and you’ll want to be prepared. Maintain daily habits like making beds, storing dishes, and keeping entryways clear. A consistent level of readiness ensures your home always shines when opportunity arrives.