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Question: Can a Seller Require a Pre-Qualification Letter Before Allowing Their Property to Be Shown?

Question: Can a Seller Require a Pre-Qualification Letter Before Allowing Their Property to Be Shown?

posted: 09/24/2018

Answer:  Yes.

A seller gets to decide who enters his/her property. Most agents tell sellers at listing appointments that only screened and qualified buyers will be shown the property.  If that is part of the selling of your services, back it up with permission from the seller to making proof of qualification a condition to show.  It is for your safety, as well as in the seller’s best interest, to only show the property to those who have the financial ability to buy.

Brokers could consider a company policy requiring proof of qualification before showing any property.  If such a policy is in place, it should be followed to the letter every single time.  You cannot demand it from one potential buyer and not require it from all.  Adhering to a written policy “willy-nilly” can put you in jeopardy of fair housing violations.  Use common sense.  Do you want to waste your and your seller’s time showing property to anyone who is not willing to show proof of qualification before touring homes? 

There really are people out there who think REALTORS® are glorified chauffeurs who will show them pretty houses because they like to look at pretty houses.  Real estate is a business, and you should treat it as such.  Be strong.  Be professional.  Be safe.