5 Home Selling Tips to Protect Your Privacy and Safety
When it comes time to sell your home, most of the attention goes toward preparing the property, setting the right price, and marketing it to attract the best buyers. What often gets overlooked is your privacy and safety during the selling process. It’s important to protect your home. With more than two decades in real estate, I have seen sellers underestimate how much personal information can be exposed once the doors open to photographers, potential buyers, inspectors, and appraisers. Managing your security is just as important as showcasing your home’s best features.
Here are five key steps you should take to protect your home and yourself while selling your home, along with some lessons I have learned in my own career.
Stow personal items and photos
Before showings and professional photography, put away personal items such as family photos, visible calendars, bills, and anything that reveals private details. Even small things like diplomas or certificates can give away more than you think. Over the years, I have had clients forget to remove checkbooks or personal mail from countertops. You do not want strangers taking note of information that could compromise your security.
Secure your valuables
Jewelry, firearms, prescription medications, and important documents should all be locked up. A safe or small lockbox is worth the investment. I once worked with a seller who left an expensive watch on a dresser during a showing. Luckily, nothing happened, but it created unnecessary stress. Do not take the risk.
Discourage unapproved photography
We live in a world where everyone has a camera in their pocket. While your agent should accompany buyers, people can and do take photos without permission. Ask your agent to add a “No Photography” note in the MLS and place a polite sign in your home. This prevents images of your personal space from being shared online without your consent .
Use an electronic lockbox
Electronic lockboxes are a safer alternative to traditional combo locks. They provide access only to licensed real estate professionals and record who entered the property and when. This has become standard practice in many markets, and I strongly recommend it. It provides both accountability and peace of mind. But most importantly, it’s an excellent way to protect your home.
Request that interior photos be removed after the sale
Once your property is sold, you can request that interior photos be removed from the MLS. Most systems require that at least a photo of the front remain for the record, but removing interior photos helps protect your privacy. This is something many sellers do not realize is possible, and it is a smart step to take .
A note on inspections and appraisals
Buyers are not the only ones who will enter your home. Inspectors, appraisers, and contractors will also need access. I encourage sellers to keep personal items and valuables stowed during these visits as well. The fewer distractions and the more neutral the environment, the better for everyone involved.
My advice as someone who has sold hundreds of homes
Selling your home is a mix of marketing, pricing, negotiation, and logistics. But it is also about trust. Your real estate agent should guide you not just in getting top dollar but also in protecting your privacy and security every step of the way. A professional agent will anticipate these concerns and have systems in place to safeguard your home.
If you are preparing to sell your home, take these precautions seriously. They will save you from headaches and keep the focus on what really matters: getting your home sold for the best possible price.
Are you thinking about selling? I would be happy to connect you with a trusted real estate professional in your area who can guide you through this process while keeping your safety and privacy top of mind. It’s important to protect your home and yourself.
