In today’s connected world, more and more home sellers are using cameras to monitor their property. This includes during showings when prospective buyers walk through the home to decide if it could be their future home. While it might feel strange to think about, it is increasingly common for buyers to be recorded without realizing it. Whether it is a doorbell camera at the front door or hidden cameras inside the living room, you should always assume you are being watched and possibly recorded during a showing.
Over my career, I have witnessed a dramatic increase in home sellers using recording devices during showings. Several years ago, it was rare. Today, it is almost expected. In just the past few years, I have had sellers call me after a showing to report everything from something a buyer said that they did not like to someone using the bathroom during a showing. I even recently received a call from a seller who was extremely upset because they saw, on camera, a buyer’s child jumping repeatedly on the couch in the living room.
Real Examples of Buyers Being Recorded
One of the most eye-opening situations I encountered involved a buyer and their real estate agent discussing offer strategy inside the home. They were speaking openly about offering over asking price to win the house but planned to renegotiate aggressively after the home inspection to reduce the final price. Unbeknownst to them, the seller had a hidden camera recording their entire conversation. Needless to say, that plan did not work out the way they intended.
Even stepping outside the home does not guarantee privacy. With devices like Ring doorbells and floodlight security cameras, conversations held on the front porch, driveway, or backyard can also be recorded. Sellers today have the ability to monitor these cameras from their phones in real time, listening to every word.
If you are curious about what these devices look like or are considering security for your own home, you can view popular models here:
Ring Hidden Indoor Camera
Ring Doorbell Camera
Ring Floodlight Camera
Advice for Homebuyers
I always want my clients to feel relaxed and comfortable when viewing a home, but I also advise caution. Here are a few simple strategies I recommend to every buyer:
- Walk through the home and observe freely. Feel free to look around, take notes, and experience the property.
- Avoid discussing sensitive topics like pricing, offer strategies, or anything negative about the home while inside or immediately outside the property.
- If you feel excited or want to talk about making an offer, save the conversation for later. Meet with your agent in their office, set up a virtual call, or discuss it privately over the phone once you have left the property entirely.
Remember, even a simple comment like “I love this house” or “We have to have it” could weaken your negotiating position if a seller overhears it.
In fact, I have had sellers call me before an offer was submitted because they overheard buyers talking on a Ring doorbell camera about making an offer. It is better to assume you are always being recorded and act accordingly.
Why Sellers Use Recording Devices
It is important to understand that most sellers are not using cameras maliciously. Many simply want to protect their property during showings. They may want to ensure no damage occurs, monitor the flow of people, or simply feel more secure while strangers are walking through their home.
That said, privacy laws vary by state, and recording audio without consent can be legally questionable in some areas. However, it is often impossible to know in the moment whether you are being legally or illegally recorded. The safest course of action is to be professional and cautious at all times during a showing.
Common Questions About Being Recorded During Home Showings
Is it legal for a seller to record me during a showing?
It depends on your state’s privacy laws. Recording video without sound is generally legal inside a home that is for sale. Audio recording can be a different matter, but enforcement is rare during private showings.
Can I ask my agent to check for cameras?
You can certainly discuss it with your agent, but many cameras are discreet and difficult to spot. It is best to simply assume recording devices are present and act accordingly.
Should I ask the seller to disclose if cameras are active?
You can ask, but disclosure is not always required. Not all sellers will volunteer the information.
What should I avoid saying inside or outside a home?
Avoid discussing anything related to offer price, love for the home, negotiation tactics, concerns about financing, or anything negative about the property until you are in a private, secure location.
Your Next Step
Buying a home is exciting, but it is important to protect your privacy during the process. Stay alert, stay professional, and save your detailed conversations for a private setting away from the property.
If you have questions about navigating home showings in today’s tech-savvy world, or if you would like help finding a trusted agent who understands these risks and how to manage them, reach out today. I am here to be your unbiased guide and help you move through the buying process with confidence and peace of mind.
