9 Common Showing Pitfalls Sellers Make & How to Avoid Them
When selling a home, first impressions matter. A showing is a buyer’s opportunity to envision themselves living in a space, and any distraction can turn them away. Yet, many sellers unknowingly make critical mistakes that hinder a successful showing. If buyers can’t comfortably explore a home, they’re unlikely to move forward with an offer. Below are some of the most common showing pitfalls that sellers make and how they can avoid them.
Top 9 Showing Pitfalls Sellers Make
1. Being Home for Showings
One of the biggest mistakes and showing pitfalls that sellers make is sticking around during showings. While it might seem helpful to be available for questions, buyers typically feel uncomfortable when the owner is present, even if they sit outside on their patio. They may rush through the home, avoiding open discussions with their agent and failing to form an emotional connection to the property.
Solution: Always leave the house before a scheduled showing. You need to let buyers explore at their own pace and visualize the home as their own. If leaving is not an option, get in your car and park across the street, go for a walk, or go to a neighbor’s house.
2. Pets Being Present
Sellers often assume that crating their dog or confining a cat to a bedroom is enough during showings. Unfortunately, this can still be problematic. Some buyers have allergies, fears, or simply dislike animals. A barking or whining dog in a crate can be a major distraction, and even the presence of a pet’s belongings (like litter boxes or food bowls) can leave a negative impression.
Solution: If possible, remove pets entirely during showings. Arrange for a friend, neighbor, or pet daycare to watch them. If that’s not feasible, ensure pet areas are spotless, and all traces of pets (beds, food dishes, toys) are tucked away.
3. Bad Smells
Bad smells don’t sell! Smells have a powerful effect on buyers, more than most people realize. While you may be accustomed to the smell of your home, buyers will notice even the slightest odor—whether it’s from pets, last night’s dinner, or an overpowering air freshener. The smell of bleach or cleaning products can also be a red flag to some buyers, leading them to wonder if you’re masking an issue like mold or smoke or even worse ending the showing and walking out.
Solution: Maintain neutral, fresh scents. Avoid cooking pungent foods before showings, and ensure pet areas are clean. Instead of strong air fresheners, use mild natural scents, like freshly baked cookies, or diffuse a light citrus essential oil, like lemon. Opening windows for fresh air is always a good idea before a showing, weather permitting of course.
4. Cluttered and Hard-to-Navigate Spaces
Clutter is one of the biggest deterrents to potential buyers. When a home is filled with too much furniture, personal items, or general mess, it feels smaller and less inviting. Buyers may struggle to see the full potential of the space, focusing on the clutter rather than the home itself.
Additionally, if buyers can’t easily walk through a home, they won’t feel comfortable. Narrow pathways, blocked doorways, or cluttered rooms or countertops make showings awkward and can make the home feel even smaller. Some sellers also make it difficult to access key areas like the garage, or backyard, leaving buyers wondering if there’s something to hide.
Solution: Declutter as much as possible before putting your home on the market. Remove excess furniture, clear countertops, and organize closets. Aim for a clean, minimalist look that highlights the home’s best features. Renting a storage unit for extra belongings can be a great short-term investment.
Once decluttered walk through your house as if you were a buyer, noting any tight spots or obstacles. Paths of travel should be at least 3 feet wide. So you may need to rearrange furniture to create an open flow. It’s important to make sure all doors and closets are easy to open as well. Sellers need to remember that they’re moving and will need to pack up their home anyway. Getting a head start will not only make the selling process less stressful but also help avoid one of the most common showing pitfalls.
5. Limiting Showing Availability
One of the most common mistakes and showing pitfalls sellers make is restricting showing times. While it can be inconvenient to leave the house at a moment’s notice, limiting showings reduces the number of potential buyers who can view the home. If a buyer can’t see a home, they can’t buy it.
Solution: Be as flexible as possible with showings. The more accessible your home is, the higher the chance of receiving offers. If you have restrictions, try to keep them minimal and work with your agent to accommodate serious buyers. Don’t advertise restrictions, such as 24-hour notice because you may be able to accommodate the showing that day and/or piggy back off another showing around the same time.
6. Poor Lighting and Dark Spaces
A dark home can feel unwelcoming and small. Bad lighting can diminish a home’s appeal, whether due to closed blinds, heavy drapery, dim lighting, or poor staging. Buyers want bright, light, and airy spaces that feel inviting. Insufficient lighting can also make a home feel outdated, as dimly lit spaces can highlight imperfections and make rooms appear smaller than they actually are.
Solution: Before showings, open all blinds and curtains to maximize natural light. Remove heavy drapes or replace them with sheer, light-filtering curtains to brighten the space. Turn on all lamps and overhead lights, even during the day, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
If needed, update light bulbs to brighter LED options for a crisp, clean look. Consider adding floor lamps in darker corners to enhance brightness and ensure all rooms feel open and welcoming. Well-lit spaces create a more inviting and spacious feel, which can make a home more appealing to buyers.
7. Leaving Personal Items on Display
Family photos, religious artifacts, political memorabilia, and personal documents can be distracting for buyers. These items make it harder for buyers to picture themselves in the home, as they reinforce the idea that it still belongs to someone else. Personal decor choices, such as niche artwork or collections, can also divert attention from the home’s features.
Solution: Depersonalize the space as much as possible. Replace family photos with neutral artwork, store away personal items, and create a space that appeals to a broad audience. Consider removing any items that may spark strong opinions or emotions, such as sports team memorabilia or bold decorative pieces.
The goal is to create a neutral, welcoming atmosphere that allows buyers to envision their own belongings in the space. If needed, consult a stager to achieve a balanced, universally appealing look. Simple touches like fresh flowers or tasteful decor can help maintain warmth without feeling overly personal.
8. Overly Themed or Dated Décor
While your home’s style may reflect your personal taste, an overly themed or outdated interior can deter buyers. Bold paint colors, excessive wallpaper, and heavy drapery can make a home feel dated or hard to customize.
Solution: Consider neutralizing the décor with modern, buyer-friendly updates. A fresh coat of neutral white paint, simple furniture arrangements, and minimal accessories can go a long way in making the home feel move-in ready.
9. Neglecting Curb Appeal
First impressions start before buyers even walk through the front door. A neglected yard, peeling paint, or cluttered porch can turn buyers off before they step inside. So many sellers tend to focus on preparing the interior of their home and completely forget about the exterior, making it one of the biggest showing pitfalls.
Solution: Enhance curb appeal by keeping the lawn mowed, bushes trimmed, and pathways clear. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, a clean doormat, and potted plants can add a welcoming touch. Make sure to pressure-wash the driveway and sidewalk for a polished look.
Also, make sure exterior lighting is functional and welcoming, especially for evening showings. Small details like a well-maintained mailbox and neatly arranged outdoor furniture can also make a big difference. The goal is to create a strong first impression that makes buyers excited to see the rest of the home, not get back in their car and drive away.
Final Thoughts
A successful home showing creates an inviting, distraction-free environment where buyers can envision themselves living in the space. Avoiding common showing pitfalls—especially these 9 showing pitfalls is a must! By taking proactive steps to prepare your home, you’ll maximize its appeal and increase your chances of a successful sale.
Sellers who choose not to avoid these pitfalls should understand that their home may sell for less—or not at all. It’s important to prioritize what matters most: staying in the backyard during showings or taking a short drive down the block to give buyers space.
Please consider spreading the word and sharing; 9 Common Showing Pitfalls Sellers Make & How to Avoid Them
About the Author
Top Wellington Realtor, Michelle Gibson, wrote: “9 Common Showing Pitfalls Sellers Make & How to Avoid Them”
Michelle has been specializing in residential real estate since 2001 throughout Wellington Florida and the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent she will guide you through the entire real estate transaction. If you’re ready to put Michelle’s knowledge and expertise to work for you call or e-mail her today.
Areas of service include Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Greenacres, and more.
