A blog reader recently wrote in with a story that left me shaking my head. They asked, “Is it normal for buyers to stop by your house repeatedly before closing? Even without notice?”
Here is what happened. After accepting an offer, the sellers had about four weeks before the scheduled closing. During that time, the buyers drove by the home multiple times. They stopped to chat with neighbors, tried to talk to the sellers, and in some cases even hung around the property for hours. At one point, they showed up during an inspection and stayed for five hours. They even stopped by on a holiday just to sit and look at the house. On top of that, the buyers asked for the sellers’ contact information in case they had questions after closing.
Let me be absolutely clear. This is not normal. It is not appropriate. It is not respectful. This kind of behavior crosses the line between excitement and intrusion.
What Is Reasonable Before Closing?
It is perfectly fine for buyers to drive through the neighborhood. In fact, I often encourage it. It helps buyers understand the area at different times of day. It is also common for buyers to attend inspections. But every visit should be scheduled through the proper channels and with permission. Buyers do not own the home yet. That means they have no right to access the property or interrupt the sellers’ daily lives.
A real estate transaction is a business arrangement. Friendly interactions are fine, but boundaries must be respected. Sellers are under no obligation to answer the door, entertain questions, or provide direct contact information to buyers. That is why agents exist. Your real estate agent is your buffer. They are there to manage communication and ensure the transaction stays professional.
What Sellers Should Do: Set Boundaries Early
If this happens to you, let your real estate agent know right away. They can speak to the buyers’ agent and set expectations for future contact. You do not need to be confrontational, but you do need to be firm. Your home is still your private property until the day it closes. Unannounced visits or lingering at the home are not acceptable.
If the buyers persist, keep a record of their visits. In rare cases, repeated behavior like this may be considered harassment or trespassing. Most of the time, though, it can be resolved with a direct conversation between agents. Do not ignore it. Set the boundary and move on.
Should You Share Contact Information?
You are not required to share your contact information with the buyers. If you feel compelled to, consider using a secondary phone number such as Google Voice or provide a personal email address. But be aware that doing so may invite ongoing communication you do not want after the sale closes.
If buyers have questions about things like garage codes, service providers, or quirks in the home, you can pass that information along to your agent. Let your agent decide what is worth relaying. Once the home is sold, you are under no obligation to remain involved.
The Bottom Line: Respectful Boundaries for a Successful Sale
Buying or selling a home can be emotional, but both sides need to respect the process. Sellers deserve privacy until the keys are officially handed over. Buyers need to work through their agent and avoid overstepping. Excitement is understandable, but there is a right way to approach every stage of the deal.
Ask Me Anything About Selling Your Home
If you are in the middle of a transaction and not sure what is normal or acceptable, feel free to reach out. I have been through thousands of home sales over my 25-year career, and I am happy to connect you with a trusted agent in your area who can answer your questions and keep your transaction on track. Respectful boundaries make for better closings.
