Should You Stay or Go? The Best Move for Sellers During Home Showings

Selling your home is a big step, and every showing is a new opportunity to impress potential buyers. But when that appointment is scheduled, a common question pops up: should you stay, or should you go?

Imagine walking into a house you might buy. You want to peek in closets, imagine your furniture in the living room, and talk openly about what you love—or don’t love. But if the seller is home, it can feel a bit like visiting someone else’s space, making it harder to picture it as your own.

Most real estate professionals agree: it’s usually better for sellers to step out during showings. Here’s why:

• Buyers Feel at Ease: When the home is empty, buyers can explore freely, linger in their favorite rooms, and discuss their thoughts honestly with their agent.
• Agents Can Shine: Your agent knows how to showcase your home’s best features and answer questions without any pressure or awkwardness.
• A Blank Canvas: An empty house invites buyers to imagine their own lives there, helping them connect emotionally to the space.

Of course, there are exceptions. If you have pets that need supervision, mobility challenges, or special security concerns, talk to your agent. Sometimes, a quick greeting followed by stepping outside or into the backyard is a good compromise. For open houses, it’s almost always best to be away. For last-minute private showings, if you absolutely can’t leave, try to stay out of sight and let the agent lead the way.

• Leave the house tidy and bright.
• Take pets with you, if possible.
• Let your agent handle questions and feedback.

In the end, giving buyers space is one of the simplest ways to help your home stand out. A little distance can make all the difference in helping someone else fall in love with your space—just like you once did.