Make sure you have the prospective buyer's details, and remember their names.
It is important to pretend that the prospective viewer is the person who will buy your house. Avoid being impatient, aggressive or unfriendly. You may end up spending a few months in contact with that person, so it is best to create a good working relationship from the outset.
Explain from the outset what is included with the property. We recommend you supply a list of all included fixtures and fittings for buyer’s own information.
Once visitors start coming, you'll develop a spiel for showing people round. Tell them what you love about living there - making it relevant to the people looking.
Although it is wise to stay away from giving buyers the ‘hard sell’ you may wish to discuss how many other people have recently viewed the house or mention if you are in the process of receiving offers from interested buyers.
If people are serious, they will generally visit a second time. Use this opportunity to find out about the potential buyer's situation. Where are they in the process of selling their property? Is the mortgage arranged? Are there any other constraints?
Above all be honest with buyers.
A few safety issues you should consider when conducting viewings:
- When someone contacts you to set up a viewing, ask for their phone number and call them back. (Also, get their mobile number as well if they have one). This way you can be assured they are genuine.
- Make a note of their name and address for your records.
- Do not agree to travel to meet a prospective buyer at their request, especially if they have previously not viewed your property in person.
- If someone makes you an offer on your property without having visited your property, treat the approach with caution.
- If you live alone, make sure a neighbour, friend or relative knows that you are showing people round. Ask them if they could be in the house when the potential buyer comes round.
- Put away any valuables.
- Do not leave you guests unattended. They should not feel pressured by your presence and most people would not realistically expect to be left alone.
- It is good practice to call the potential buyer one to two days after the viewing to get their feedback (assuming they have not already contacted you back). You can then get a sense of how interested they are.
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