How to Prepare Your Home for Showings | Real Estate Tips for Sellers

By Sarah Breck, Boise Real Estate Agent

Getting ready to list your home? Or maybe it’s already on the market and the showing requests are starting to roll in. If you’re wondering whether to light a candle, hide the laundry, or start baking cookies like it’s 1997… take a deep breath.

In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to prepare your home for showings so you can make a great first impression—without losing your mind in the process. Whether you’ve got a full hour or just 15 minutes to spare, you’ll be ready to show your home like a pro.

What Is a Home Showing, Anyway?

A home showing is when a potential buyer, along with their real estate agent, comes to tour your property in person. It’s not an open house, but it’s just as important—sometimes even more so.

Most of your showing activity will happen in the first two weeks after listing, so having your home prepped and ready from day one can make a major difference in how fast you get an offer.

How Are Showings Scheduled?

Showings are always scheduled through your listing agent. You can set your preferred schedule—like “no showings after 7 p.m.” or “weekends only with 2 hours' notice.” Your agent will coordinate this with buyer agents and keep things running smoothly around your routine, pets, and life.

Should You Be Home During a Showing?

Short answer: nope.Buyers need to envision themselves living in the space, and that’s tough to do when the current homeowner is hovering nearby. Step out, go for a drive, hit a coffee shop—and let the home speak for itself.

Is It Safe to Have Strangers Touring My Home?

Yes! Your key is stored in a secure electronic lockbox that only licensed agents can access. Every time someone uses it, your agent gets a notification—so there’s always a digital record of who entered and when.

What About Pets and Valuables?

For pets, you and your agent will create a game plan—whether that means crating them, taking them with you, or adding special showing instructions.

And while most buyers are respectful, it’s always a good idea to remove or secure:

• Small electronics

• Prescription medications

• Jewelry or cash

• Firearms or personal defense items

If it would make you uncomfortable in someone else’s house, take it with you.

How to Prepare Your Home for Showings

Let’s get into the good stuff: prepping your home.

Basic Showing Prep Checklist:

• Make the beds

• Fluff the pillows

• Take out the trash

• Clear countertops

• Put away dishes

• Pick up toys, clothes, and clutter

• Turn on all the lights—including closets!

If You Have Extra Time:

• Vacuum and mop

• Wipe mirrors and appliances

• Fold visible laundry

• Dust surfaces

Even if you only have 15 minutes, doing the basics can make a big impact. Buyers aren’t expecting perfection—they’re just looking for a clean, welcoming space that feels like home.

What Happens After a Showing?

After each showing, your agent will follow up to gather feedback. Sometimes it’s detailed and helpful, sometimes it’s crickets. Either way, it’s all valuable info that can guide your next steps.

Don’t Forget to Keep the Lights On—Literally

Even if your home is vacant, make sure all utilities stay on through closing day. Inspectors, appraisers, and buyers doing their final walkthrough need everything to be fully functional.

Want the Free Printable Checklist?

Grab my full Printable Showing Prep Checklist to keep on your fridge or by the door.

💬 Ready to Sell Without the Stress?

If you're selling a home in Boise and want step-by-step support from start to finish, I’m here to help. From prepping for showings to reviewing offers, I’ll guide you through every part of the process.

📅 Book your free consultation

📍 Serving Boise, Meridian, Eagle, and the surrounding Treasure Valley.