August, 2025
The house viewing is arguably the most crucial step in the sales process. It’s your chance to turn a potential buyer's interest from a listing online into an emotional connection with a home. But for many sellers, the thought of welcoming strangers into their space can be daunting.
Fear not! With a little preparation and a confident approach, you can make every viewing count. Here is your comprehensive guide on how to handle house viewings and increase your chances of a successful sale.
Before the Viewing: The Power of Preparation
The Deep Clean and Declutter: A spotless, tidy home appears more spacious, better cared for, and allows viewers to envision themselves living there. Clean every surface, dust all corners, polish windows, and ensure every room is free of clutter.
Neutralise and Depersonalise: Pack away family photos, personal mementoes, and anything that is too taste-specific. This helps viewers mentally "move in" without being distracted by your style.
Minor Repairs Make a Major Difference: That leaky tap, loose door handle, or scuffed paintwork might seem minor to you, but to a buyer, it can signal a lack of care and potential future problems. Fix all those small issues.
Set the Stage (Home Staging): Arrange furniture to create a sense of space and flow. Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. Fluff up cushions, make beds neatly, and ensure the home looks inviting.
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: A pleasant scent can make a big impact. Brew some coffee, bake some cookies, or use a subtle air freshener. On a cold day, ensure the heating is on; on a hot day, open windows for a fresh breeze.
During the Viewing: The Seller's Role
Leave the Viewing to the Professionals: Your estate agent is the expert for a reason. They know how to handle questions, highlight key features, and navigate sensitive conversations. It's often best for you to leave the property for the duration of the viewing. This allows buyers to talk freely, open cupboards, and spend time in each room without feeling like they are intruding.
If You Must Be There, Be a Silent Host: If you absolutely have to be present, be as unobtrusive as possible. Greet the viewers warmly, then politely excuse yourself and let the agent take over. Find a quiet corner or step into the garden. Don't hover, and avoid following them from room to room.
Prepare to Answer Key Questions (If Asked): While your agent will handle most of the queries, be ready to answer some common questions, such as:
"How old is the boiler?"
"How much are the average utility bills?"
"What are the neighbours like?"
"How is the broadband speed?"
Focus on the Lifestyle: If you are asked to speak about the property, talk about the lifestyle it offers. Instead of just saying "this is the kitchen," say "we love cooking in this kitchen, especially with the morning sun coming in." Paint a picture of what it’s like to live there.
After the Viewing: Follow-Up and Feedback
Get Feedback from Your Agent: As soon as possible after the viewing, your estate agent should provide you with honest feedback. This is invaluable information. It will tell you what viewers liked, what they didn't, and if there are any aspects of your home you could improve for the next viewing.
Be Open to Adjustments: If multiple viewers have the same concerns (e.g., "the garden is a bit overgrown" or "the living room feels dark"), be open to making adjustments. It might be the small change that secures a future offer.
Maintain the Standard: Keep your home in a viewing-ready state. You never know when the next one will be, and you want to be prepared to make a great impression every time.
A successful house viewing is a blend of smart preparation and a professional approach. By focusing on creating an inviting space and letting your estate agent take the lead, you can significantly increase your chances of finding the perfect buyer and getting the offer you want.
