Sellers: Why Your Home Showing Begins at the Front Door

Sellers: Your Showing Begins at the Front Door There can be an overlooked moment during almost every home showing.

The buyers are standing outside while their agent accesses the lockbox.

For thirty seconds—or sometimes longer—they have very little to do except look around.

That makes the front entry part of your showing.

Start with the walkway. Sweep it and remove debris.

Look upward for cobwebs around lighting and the door frame.

Clean the door and any glass.

Check the doorbell and porch light.

Look at planters and nearby landscaping.

Replace a worn-out welcome mat if necessary.

Then stand where a buyer is likely to wait and look at the entrance from that perspective.

This is not necessarily about spending a great deal of money.

It is about eliminating small distractions that can suggest deferred maintenance.

Martha’s Tip: Unlock your own front door as though you were a buyer’s agent. Does the lock work smoothly? Does the door stick? What do you notice while standing there?

A welcoming entry creates an important message before buyers ever step inside:

This home has been cared for.

Request Martha’s Home Preparation & Staging Checklist.