Can I say no to last-minute showings?
Can I say no to last-minute showings? Yes — and here’s exactly how to do it without killing your sale.
You control access to your home
If you’re selling while living in the home, you’re in charge. Agents will push for last-minute showings because they want speed. You can refuse. Refusing won’t automatically ruin the sale, but you must be smart about it.
Tony Sousa, a top local realtor, sees this every week: sellers who let strangers in anytime lose privacy and energy. Sellers who set rules keep their sanity and sell on better terms.
Why saying no is reasonable
- You have a right to your life and privacy.
- Last-minute showings can make your home look chaotic and underprepared.
- Buyers who demand irregular access may not be serious buyers.
Saying no is not rude. It’s smart. It preserves the quality of showings and protects your schedule.
How to refuse and still keep buyers interested
- Set clear showing windows. Pick consistent blocks (e.g., Tue/Thu 4–7pm, Sat 11–2pm). Put these in MLS remarks. Agents follow concrete rules.
- Use technology. Turn on scheduled-showing tools (ShowingTime, Calendly) and require 24-hour notice. Automation reduces last-minute pressure.
- Offer alternatives. Provide a high-quality virtual tour, detailed photos, or a 30-minute private video walkthrough.
- Communicate a short, firm script:
- “I can’t accommodate last-minute visits. We schedule showings between 4–7pm on weekdays and 11–2pm Saturdays. If that doesn’t work, I’ll send a video tour.”
- Reward flexibility. If an agent or buyer asks for an exception that helps close the deal, consider a small incentive (covering a fast cleaning or offering a flexible closing date).
Legal and contract points to check
- Review your listing agreement. Many contracts authorize reasonable access but don’t force 24/7 entry.
- If you have a lockbox, discuss access rules with your agent. Lockboxes increase showings — set limits.
- Local laws differ. In most residential sales, sellers can insist on notice. Confirm with your realtor.
When to say yes to a last-minute showing
- The buyer is pre-approved and local agent confirms strong interest.
- It’s a weekend or public holiday with many potential buyers.
- You can get out of the house quickly and the showing won’t disrupt your life.
Script examples you can use
- Firm refusal: “I can’t do last-minute showings. We have scheduled times on X and Y. Please book through my agent.”
- Conditional yes: “I can make an exception for qualified buyers with 1–2 hours’ notice.”
Bottom line
You can absolutely say no to last-minute showings. Do it with rules, automation, and a clear plan. That keeps your home staged, your life intact, and your sale on track.
Ready to sell on your terms? Contact Tony Sousa for a straightforward plan to sell while living in your home: tony@sousasells.ca | 416-477-2620 | https://www.sousasells.ca
