Can I set specific showing hours?
Yes — You Can Set Showing Hours and Keep Your Life While Selling Your Home
Quick answer: you control showings
Can you set specific showing hours? Absolutely. When you’re selling while living in the home, you don’t lose control. You simply set a tight showing schedule, communicate it clearly, and work with a pro who enforces it.
Why a showing schedule matters when selling while living in the home
Selling while living in the home without a plan ruins your routine and kills buyer interest. Buyers expect access. But they also respect clarity. Setting specific showing hours protects your privacy, creates predictable staging windows, and keeps the property market-ready. It also screens serious buyers from tire-kickers.
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How to set specific showing hours — step-by-step
- List firm windows. Pick 2–3 time blocks per day (e.g., 11am–1pm, 4pm–6pm, weekends 12pm–3pm). Consistency wins.
- Use appointment-only showings. No lockbox chaos. Require agents to book through your listing agent.
- Build buffer time. Leave 30–45 minutes before and after each showing to tidy, ventilate, and reset.
- Communicate clearly. Put the showing hours in the MLS remarks, the property flyer, email confirmations, and automated texts.
- Offer virtual showings. Pre-record a walkthrough or do live video tours for early-stage interest.
- Delegate enforcement. Your listing agent enforces the schedule and confirms appointments. This is non-negotiable.
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Practical showing windows that convert
- Morning buyers: 10am–12pm — works for retirees and weekday shoppers.
- After-work buyers: 4pm–7pm — captures buyers who work 9–5.
- Weekend peak: 11am–3pm — highest traffic.
Choose the slots that fit your lifestyle and the local market. If you’re in Toronto or a busy market, favor early evening and weekend blocks.
Common objections and quick answers
- “Will this scare buyers away?” No. Most buyers respect clear bookings. A predictable schedule often improves turnout because agents can plan.
- “Will it slow the sale?” Not if your agent markets aggressively and offers virtual tours for early interest.
- “Do MLS rules allow it?” Yes. Most boards permit appointment-only showings. Your agent will handle compliance and note the showing hours in the listing.
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Final move: make selling liveable and fast
You can sell while living in the home without losing your life. Set specific showing hours, use appointment-only showings, add virtual tours, and hire an agent who enforces the plan.
Ready to protect your time and sell at top market value? Contact a local expert who will set the schedule, market the home, and handle every showing.
Email: tony@sousasells.ca
Phone: 416-477-2620
Website: https://www.sousasells.ca
Act now. A tight showing schedule sells homes faster and keeps your life intact.
