How Should Sellers Manage Home Showings?
By JC Pacific Corp Published 2026-09-01 Last professionally reviewed: September 2026
Sellers should make showings reasonably accessible while protecting valuables, personal information, medications, occupants and pets.
Before Each Showing
- Make beds
- Clear counters
- Wash dishes
- Open appropriate window coverings
- Turn on lights
- Control temperature
- Remove odors
- Secure medication
- Secure valuables
- Hide financial documents
- Secure weapons
- Manage pets
- Leave when requested
Why Should the Seller Leave?
Buyers may feel uncomfortable discussing the property or examining rooms while the seller is present.
Protect Privacy
Remove or secure:
- Tax records
- Passwords
- Calendars
- Family schedules
- Passports
- Jewelry
- Prescription medication
- Business documents
- Children's identifying information
Frequently Asked Questions
Should security cameras remain on?
Sellers should obtain guidance about surveillance, audio recording, disclosure and applicable law. Audio recording can create serious legal concerns.
Can buyers open closets?
Buyers commonly need to understand storage, subject to showing instructions.
Should pets remain at home?
Secure pets safely or remove them when possible.
Make access safe and comfortable. A showing plan should support buyer evaluation without sacrificing the seller's security.
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JC Pacific Corp is an Irvine-based Southern California brokerage helping buyers navigate offers, escrow, and financing. Tell us what you are looking for and we will point you to current options across the region.
A note on legal advice: These guides provide general, educational information about California real estate practice. They are not legal advice and do not create an attorney-client relationship. Mortgage information is general education, not individualized lending, tax or legal guidance. For advice about your specific offer, contract, closing or financing, consult a qualified California real estate attorney and a qualified mortgage professional.