To Show House or Not to Show House?
Category Sellers Guide
Show Houses understandably took a break during the earlier stages of the pandemic in 2020 and during that time, #LCProperties took the opportunity to host virtual Show Houses. A few of our agents even recorded private walk-throughs of the home so that buyers could gain a better understanding of its lay out and flow.
What we found during this time was that the virtual show house funneled the list of potential buyers and the interest received was effectively more from serious buyers. Many of which then requested in-person viewings after watching the video of the home. We were even able to sign contracts, subject to viewing of the property as soon as lockdown regulations were lifted.
And then, as soon as we were allowed, our agents (of course, adhering to strict health and safety protocols), jumped straight back into hosting in-person Show Houses.
So the question now remains for many property owners: To show house or Not to show house?
To guide you, we've looked at our recent show house activity since the start of 2021 and so far, in-person show house attendance has sky-rocketed. Although the dynamic of the in-person show house has changed significantly, (ie strict health protocols, limited guest numbers per viewing, covid forms, etc), we have found that many buyers still prefer in-person viewings when choosing their next home, especially those who are looking to occupy the home themselves.
And although virtual and physical Show Houses both serve important, albeit different purposes, the in-person Show House can still be vital in boasting a home's special features and flow, which is often not captured on a single photo or video shoot. Your buyer wants to "experience" the home and nothing tickles the senses more than our touch, sound, sight, smell and taste...most of which are only experienced in-person.
On the other hand, we've made peace with technology and its place in our lives and virtual Show Houses can still be a great tool for buyers to do some research on a house and determine whether they are enticed to see more or move to the next one. This helps both buyer and seller (and agent) save time on non-serious home viewings. This also limits unnecessary physical contact, keeping more of us safe!
So, when deciding on what to do next, always take in consideration what is safest for you and your loved ones, then structure a show house plan which is most comfortable for you and which will still lead you to selling or buying success!
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Author: Louw & Coetzee Properties
