Have you ever gone into one of your listed properties after another member has shown it and found furniture moved, the lights on or an item has been broken?  Or worse, have your seller call and report something has been broken or their belongings have been moved or handled?

RAHB has rules that cover the basics about ensuring the security of a listed property, but there aren’t any rules about behaviour at showings.  First of all, RAHB can’t legislate the behaviour of a potential buyer.  But more than that, RAHB can’t legislate common courtesy.  And that’s what it is – courtesy.

The Golden Rule.  Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.

If you are in the position of having buyers who like to go into a home and check out the decorative touches as much as they like looking at the layout, a gentle reminder that this is someone else’s home would be in order.  No one likes their own belongings touched by strangers and they shouldn’t be touching the belongings of the owner.

If something is accidentally swept off a table and breaks or is chipped, have the courtesy to let the listing office know or leave a note for the owner.  Apologize.  Offer to pay for fixing or replacing the damaged item.  Treat the seller as you would like to be treated.

If the lights are off when you enter the home, make sure the lights are off when you leave. No one wants lights left on when no one is home.

Use common sense and common courtesy.  It doesn’t take much to ensure the property is left exactly as you found it, and what little effort you have to make will go a long way to impressing upon the owner just how professional REALTORS® are.