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How to run safe showings when selling your house privately

Show your home by appointment only, screen callers first, keep a written log of every visitor's name and phone number, have a second adult present, and lock away valuables and medications. With private financing, the lender qualifies buyers before they're booked, so you only show to people who can actually buy.

By Colton Kumar, No Commission System · Last updated

Key points
  • Appointment only, no drop-ins.
  • Log every visitor's name and number.
  • Never show alone.
  • Valuables, mail and medications out of sight.

Before the showing

  • Confirm the appointment by text the day before.
  • Ask pre-approved buyers to bring their pre-approval letter.
  • Open blinds, turn on lights, set a comfortable temperature.
  • Have a one-page info sheet: taxes, utilities, upgrades, possession date.

During the showing

  • Let buyers look; answer questions honestly.
  • Don't discuss your bottom line. Ask for written offers.
  • Keep pets out of the house if you can.

After the showing

Follow up within 24 hours. If they want to make an offer, direct them to have it written and reviewed by their lawyer, with the deposit going into a lawyer's trust account.

Sell it yourself, with more buyers calling

Add the private-financing header to your ad and let our private lender qualify the buyers the banks turn away. No commission, no contract, no obligation. Listing takes about 5 minutes.

List my homeWatch the 5-minute video

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to show my house myself?

Yes, with basic precautions: appointment only, screened callers, a visitor log, a second adult present and valuables put away.

Should I hold an open house for a private sale?

You can, but appointment-only showings to screened buyers are safer and usually more productive.

What do I say when buyers call?

Ask one question: "Do you need the private financing option, as advertised, or are you pre-approved through a bank?" Financing buyers go to the private lender. Pre-approved buyers you handle yourself and book the showing.

Related guides

What to say when buyers call about your for sale by owner homeHow to write a for sale by owner ad that gets more callsHow closing works when you sell your house privately in CanadaHow to sell your house without a realtor in Canada

General information for Canadian home sellers, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and fees change, so confirm the details with a real estate lawyer in your province before you sell.