GET OUT! Why Your Presence is Killing Your Home Sale

by Ryan Maceri

Should You Leave Your Home During Showings? (Yes—Here’s Why)

One of the most common seller questions I get is:

“Do we have to leave the house every time someone wants to see it?”

You don’t have to in most situations—but if your goal is stronger offers and better terms, leaving is usually the smarter move. When sellers stay, buyers get uncomfortable, talk less, and spend less time imagining the home as their home. The National Association of REALTORS® has specifically noted that sellers vacating helps buyers picture the home as their own—and that “watching” buyers (even from a car across the street) is not okay.

Why staying home can cost you money

Buyers won’t speak freely

Buyers need room to react honestly—about price, condition, layout, and what they’d offer. When the seller is present, they usually stay polite… and quiet. That means fewer real conversations, less emotional connection, and often less urgency.

They won’t explore the home the same way

If you’re in a room, buyers often skip it (or rush it). Houzz discussions over the years echo the same theme: sellers being present makes touring uncomfortable and can limit how thoroughly buyers look.

It changes the vibe (and not in a good way)

Even if you’re friendly, buyers feel like they’re intruding. They’re less likely to picture their furniture, their routine, their life there—because you’re still living it in front of them.

The best practice: “Step out and let the house sell itself”

A practical rule of thumb: vacate completely during showings and let the buyer and their agent do their job. That’s the guidance you’ll see repeated by industry voices because it works—buyers need freedom to look, discuss, and visualize without pressure.

What about working from home, kids, or pets?

Totally fair—life doesn’t pause because your house is listed. Here’s the least-stress setup that still protects your sale:

If you work from home

Aim to leave during peak showing windows (after school, evenings, weekends).
If you must be home, stay in one area out of sight, no small talk, no “helpful” commentary, and absolutely no hovering.

If you have kids

Create a quick “go bag” (snacks, chargers, activities).
Build a routine: park, library, coffee shop, quick errand loop.

If you have pets

Remove them from the home if possible. Many buyers are nervous around animals, even if your dog is basically a teddy bear with legs.

“How long should we plan to be out?”

Most showings are short, but plan for about an hour to avoid rushing back too early and stressing everyone out.

Quick seller showing rules (that protect your offers)

Leave the property (don’t wait in the driveway or across the street).
Let your agent talk—no “feature tour” from the homeowner.
Keep it neutral: lights on, clutter down, scents mild.
Make access easy: the more flexible you are, the more showings you get.

(And yes… buyers notice when showings are “difficult.” Difficulty reduces traffic. Less traffic reduces leverage.)

NAR on why sellers shouldn’t stay/watch during showings: NAR: When Sellers Won’t Leave During Showings
Practical seller guidance on leaving during showings: Quadwalls: House showing dos & don’ts
Additional perspective (seller-focused): JP & Associates: Stay or step away

If you’re planning to sell in Metro Detroit and you want a strategy that protects your price and keeps your life manageable, I’ll help you set up a showing plan that works.

👉 Request a quick home value + selling strategy review here: