Showing Etiquette

Showing homes is one of the most exciting parts of being a Realtor—but it’s also one of the most meaningful experiences for a Buyer. Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind when showing properties.​

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5 minutes early is considered 'on-time'!

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• Announce Yourself: When entering an occupied home, always announce “Realtor!” as you open the door. Many Texans are armed, so take this simple precaution to ensure everyone knows who’s entering.

• Opening Doors: Lead with courtesy. Open the door and hold it for your buyers as they walk in. It’s a small gesture that sets a professional tone and makes them feel special.

• Know the Property: Familiarize yourself with the basics before arriving: square footage, school district, and bedroom/bathroom count. This shows confidence and expertise.

• Preview New Builds: New construction homes can make a Realtor’s job seem effortless, but there is still a value add opportunity. Before meeting your clients, visit the properties in advance to check if the doors are already open or the current status of the build. Stop by the model home to secure a key or have a sales rep unlock it if its locked. The last thing you or your clients want is to be standing around outside of a home while you rush to the model to grab a key and get sidetracked by a 20-minute sales pitch.

• Don’t Walk Directly Behind Clients walking up/down Stairs: Either go first or allow your clients to go all the way up before following. Walking too closely can feel awkward and, in some cultures, is considered disrespectful.

• Be Mindful When Parking: Leave enough space for your clients to park comfortably nearby. It’s a small detail that makes a big impression.

• Highlight Features — Don’t Oversell: Point out key details and unique features, but let the home speak for itself. Buyers appreciate space to form their own opinions.

• Give Clients Space to Explore: This isn’t HGTV. Avoid hovering or leading them through each room. Instead, enter first to turn on lights, then step aside and let them experience the home naturally.

• Communicate Between Showings: Always let your clients know what’s next. Say, “The next home is right down the street, you can just follow me,” or “The next one’s 12 minutes away, I’ll text you the address.” Do this every time to maintain smooth coordination.

• Share MLS Sheets After Showings: Print MLS sheets for each property shown and hand them to your buyers afterward. I like to say, “Here’s my cheat sheet from today’s tour, feel free to review it later for any details you might need.” It’s a thoughtful touch that adds value.

• Discuss Feedback Outside the Home: Wait until you’re outside of the home or back in the car before discussing opinions. Many homes have cameras listening.

• Have a tape-measure in your car: Always carry a small tape measure in your car. Buyers often want to know if their furniture will fit in certain spaces or how wide a hallway or fridge nook is. Having one on hand shows preparedness, professionalism, and attention to detail. Little things that make you stand out as a knowledgeable Realtor.

• Turning Off Lights & Ensuring doors are locked: Ensure all doors are securely locked and all lights are turned off before leaving the property.