And Signs It Went Well

Thinking of selling your home and wondering what actually happens during a showing? From who comes through the door to how buyers behave when they’re serious, here’s your complete guide to the home showing process — and the tell-tale signs a showing went well.

Showings vs. Open Houses

Before we get into the details, it’s worth understanding the difference between a private showing and an open house.

An open house is when your home is available for anyone to drop by during a set window of time — usually on a weekend. A showing, on the other hand, is a scheduled, private appointment arranged through a real estate agent. These are often preferred by serious buyers, and in today’s market, they’ve become the norm for evaluating a property up close.

What Happens During a Home Showing?

A showing is a buyer’s chance to explore your home and picture themselves living there. It’s also your opportunity to make a strong impression and create that emotional connection that leads to offers.

1. Scheduling Showings

Once your home hits the market, interested buyers will start booking appointments through their agents. Most showings last about 15 to 30 minutes, and in active markets, it’s not unusual to get multiple requests a day.

As the seller, you should try to be flexible. Giving your agent a few hours’ notice is fine, but the more accessible your home is, the more opportunities you’ll have to attract interest.

2. How You’ll Be Notified

Work with your agent to set up a reliable system for booking and confirming showings — whether that’s by text, email, a calendar app, or phone calls. Timely communication makes everything smoother for everyone involved.

3. Who’s Coming Through the Door?

Showings are typically attended by the buyer and their real estate agent. Occasionally, an unrepresented buyer may request a viewing directly through your listing agent.

Pro tip: It’s best not to be home during the showing. Even if you’re just relaxing in the backyard or basement, your presence can make buyers feel uncomfortable and rushed — and it can stop them from speaking freely or emotionally connecting with the space.

Preparing Your Home for Showings

To make your home shine:

• Declutter and clean thoroughly before your listing goes live.

• Keep the house “show-ready” daily, especially if you're still living there.

• If possible, remove pets and any pet-related items.

• Open blinds, turn on lights, and leave closet doors slightly ajar so buyers can look inside with ease.

If you’re expecting a high volume of showings, consider a weekend getaway or local staycation to avoid the disruption and keep your home in perfect shape.

What Buyers Do During a Showing

Buyers will walk through the home, open closets and cupboards, check room sizes, and often test things like light switches, taps, and appliances. That’s normal — they’re trying to assess functionality and get a feel for the layout.

Their agent will guide the visit, answer questions, and take note of anything that requires follow-up with your agent.

After the Showing

Your agent will usually reach out to the buyer’s agent to get feedback — this can be valuable insight into pricing, presentation, or anything that might be holding buyers back.

If the showing went well, you’ll often know quickly. Serious interest usually follows within 24–48 hours.

Signs a House Showing Went Well

So how can you tell if buyers are really interested? Here are some of the top signals:

• ✅ They stay longer than average. A quick walkthrough can mean they’re just not feeling it.

• ✅ They ask detailed questions — about renovations, age of the roof, utilities, or even closing date flexibility.

• ✅ They talk about the layout like it’s already theirs. Phrases like “this would be Emma’s room” or “our table would fit here” are dead giveaways.

• ✅ They linger in key rooms — like the kitchen or primary bedroom — and discuss what they’d change or keep.

• ✅ They bring someone back. A second showing with a family member, friend, or contractor is a strong sign they’re seriously considering writing an offer.

• ✅ Their agent follows up quickly. If they’re asking about other offers or hinting at terms, they’re interested.

• ✅ They ask for a pre-offer inspection. This is one of the clearest signals an offer is coming.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Showings are one of the most critical parts of the home selling process. It’s where the emotional connection is made and where offers start to take shape. By understanding what happens — and recognizing the signals of interest — you’ll feel more in control, less stressed, and better positioned to sell your home successfully.

If you're navigating this dynamic market, whether buying or selling, let's talk strategy. Our team can guide you through the most efficient processes, aiming to save you time, money, and hassle. Contact us today, and let's make your real estate journey successful!

Source Michael Cowling