Back-to-School Home Selling

As fall is approaching, so is the end of the busy real estate season. This also means busy back-to-school time.  If you’re thinking of selling before the holidays set in, take notes on how to have grade A showings.

Set a schedule. Set aside certain hours for showings based on the kids’ schedule. When will you be out of the house for a game, recital, or birthday party? Your listing agent can post the best showing times for buyer agents to schedule with their clients. Remember to update the schedule as needed to avoid surprise visits.

Create an escape plan. Last-minute showings still occur and can be very stressful to accommodate. What kid-friendly activities can you do nearby? Perhaps it’s the playground, a bike ride, or the doggie park for an hour. Keep extra toys, sports balls, and the like in the trunk so all you have to do is hop in the car and go.

Make it a game.  Create a showing checklist, and depending on the ages, have each kid be responsible for a task. This could be clearing off the bath counters, putting dirty dishes into the dishwasher, putting toys away in the closet, etc. Reward tasks well done with sweet treats, sticker stars, or a later bedtime.

Have you ever listed a home during back-to-school season? What is your best tip?

–Mar

photo: @simonrae