Buyers Are Listening: What Sellers Should Not Say
Category Seller Advice
Thinking out loud during a showing? Here's why silence might sell faster.
Selling your home comes with a lot of emotions, and sometimes, a little nervous oversharing. Maybe you're trying to be helpful, or maybe the silence feels awkward. Either way, it's surprisingly easy to say the wrong thing at the wrong time when buyers are walking through your home.
Here's a better way to think about it: your agent is the storyteller. You're behind the scenes.
Below are 10 things that can unintentionally backfire, even if you mean well.
🚫 "We've had a lot of interest, but no offers."
You might think this shows value, but buyers hear red flags. They start wondering what everyone else spotted that they haven't yet.
🚫 "It's such a peaceful neighbourhood."
What's peaceful for you might feel isolating to them. Or vice versa. Avoid setting expectations they haven't asked for.
🚫 "There are loads of kids around and great schools."
Unless a buyer brings up their own family needs, it's safer to let them steer that topic. You don't know their life stage or priorities.
🚫 "Our church is wonderful."
Religion, politics, and personal values are all best kept off the table unless you're specifically asked.
🚫 "The kitchen is only two years old!"
New to you doesn't mean new to them, especially if their style is different. Let them form their own impression.
🚫 "We've outgrown the space."
Even if true, this plants the idea that the house might not be big enough. Not ideal.
🚫 "It's just too expensive for us now."
This can make buyers feel like they're inheriting a burden. The focus should be on value, not cost.
🚫 "We're selling after a divorce."
Some buyers are sensitive to energy, history, or just awkwardness. Keep it neutral.
🚫 "There was a recent passing in the family."
This might be deeply personal, but it's also something that can affect buyer perception more than you expect.
🚫 "We've already bought elsewhere."
Read more: Seller Advice: Five top tips for selling fast - and at the best price
This could suggest urgency - and open the door to lower offers.
So, what should you say?
Singer Ronan Keating nailed the sentiment back in 1999 with: "You say it best when you say nothing at all". A warm welcome, a quick hello, and then let your agent do what they're trained to do - guide the viewing, highlight the selling points, and keep the buyer focused on the home.
It's your home, but it's their moment. Give them space to imagine it.
Thinking of listing your property? Get in touch with your nearest Chas Everitt agent. We know what to say - and what not to.
Author: Chas Everitt