FOR SALE BY OWNER
HOME SELLING RESOURCES
Helpful guidance designed to help you feel prepared and confident at every stage of your sale.
Most showings are scheduled with little notice. The goal is to keep your home in a state of readiness so you can show it with confidence
Prepare for Showings
Remove valuables & prescriptions
Remove pet items, bowls & toys
Take out trash
Hide cords, chargers, electronics
Turn off TV and computer screens
Straighten pillows, throws and rugs
Store shoes, coats & backpacks
Move cars from driveway
Many homes have doorbell cameras, security systems, baby monitors, and other connected devices. Before showings begin, please tell me about every device capable of recording or transmitting audio or video, including devices that may not be actively monitored.
Audio & Video Recording Devices During Showings
Visible exterior and common-area security cameras may remain in use, but their presence should be disclosed before a showing. Cameras should never be positioned where visitors would have a heightened expectation of privacy, and Illinois law specifically restricts nonconsensual recording in locations such as restrooms and certain residential circumstances.
Video surveillance
Illinois law generally prohibits secretly recording a private conversation unless all parties to that conversation consent. Because buyers may reasonably expect their conversations during a showing to remain private, the safest practice is to disable all audio-recording functions before buyers enter the home. This includes audio captured by security cameras, smart doorbells, indoor cameras, baby monitors, and smart-home devices.
Audio recording
This information is provided for general guidance and is not legal advice. Questions about a particular surveillance system or recording practice should be reviewed with your real estate attorney.
