In today’s real estate market, first impressions aren’t just important—they’re everything. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 83% of buyers’ agents say staging helps buyers visualize a property as their future home.

Yet not every showing comes with days or even hours of notice. Many buyers want to tour properties quickly to stay competitive, especially in hot markets.

For sellers, this creates a unique challenge: how to keep a home in constant, presentable condition without turning life upside down. The good news? With the right habits and systems in place, you can handle last-minute showings without breaking a sweat.

Below are practical strategies to help you prepare and stay prepared, making the process smoother and more efficient from start to finish.

1. Prepping Your Home in Advance

Start with a strong foundation so you’re not scrambling every time your agent calls.

Declutter and Depersonalize

Regularly pack away personal items, extra furniture, and decor. A clean slate helps buyers focus on the home and not your stuff.

Create a Daily Cleaning Routine

Simple tasks like wiping counters, taking out the trash, and making beds each morning can dramatically reduce your prep time when a showing is scheduled.

Organize for Quick Stash-and-Dash

Use baskets, bins, or boxes in closets or under beds to quickly tuck away personal items before a showing.

2. Maintaining a Show-Ready Environment

Build smart systems that help you maintain a clean, inviting space without constant effort.

Set Up a Drop Zone

Designate a small area for everyday essentials like keys, bags, and mail to prevent clutter from spreading.

Use Quick-Clean Storage

Keep baskets in each room so you can do a 5-minute sweep and toss clutter out of sight.

Slipcovers Save Time

Washable throws and slipcovers can refresh furniture instantly, especially if you have pets or children.

3. A Kid-Friendly Show-Ready Plan

Kids don’t have to make showings harder. With a little planning, they can help.

Easy Toy Storage

Keep toys in bins or baskets that can slide under beds or fit in closets. Only leave a few out at a time.

Give Kids a Role

Simple daily tasks like putting away toys or fluffing pillows help kids feel included and lighten your load.

Know Where to Go

Keep a list of parks, libraries, or nearby cafés so you’re ready to leave the house at a moment’s notice.

4. Pet Preparedness for Showings

Buyers love pets, but they don’t love evidence of them during a showing.

Keep a Pet Go-Bag Ready

Pack leashes, treats, waste bags, and toys in a small bag near the door.

Line Up a Pet Helper

Ask a neighbor or friend in advance if they’re willing to take your pet on short notice.

Scout Pet-Friendly Spots

Know where you can go with your pet while buyers tour your home—dog parks, trails, or even pet stores can work.

5. Emergency Cleaning Kit

Be prepared to freshen up your home in minutes with a ready-to-go kit.

What to Include

Stock your kit with microfiber cloths, multi-surface cleaner, paper towels, a small vacuum, lint rollers, and gloves.

Don’t Forget Scents

Use lightly scented sprays or plug-ins with clean, neutral aromas. Avoid anything too overpowering—buyers prefer “clean” to “perfumed.”

6. Quick Outdoor Touch-Ups

Curb appeal starts before they walk through the door and it matters. In fact, 92% of agents recommend improving curb appeal before listing.

Stay on Top of Yard Work

Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and sweep the porch regularly. Keep it tidy so last-minute showings don’t require outdoor prep.

Contain Outdoor Clutter

Store gardening tools, toys, and hoses in weatherproof bins or sheds.

Choose Low-Maintenance Landscaping

Consider potted plants or mulch beds that look polished but require minimal upkeep.

7. Preparing Yourself Mentally

Staying calm and flexible will go a long way in making the process feel manageable.

Expect the Unexpected

Accept that you may be asked to leave with little notice. Being mentally ready for this reduces frustration and helps you stay composed.

Build Stress-Relief Habits

A few minutes of deep breathing, a short walk, or listening to calming music can ease tension when things feel rushed.

8. Keep Communication Flowing with Your Agent

Clear communication is your safety net when juggling showings, daily life, and everything in between.

Set Guidelines

Let your agent know what notice you need, preferred times, and days that are off-limits.

Use Showing Management Tools

Many agents use apps like ShowingTime to coordinate scheduling. Ask your agent for access so you can confirm or adjust appointments on the go.

Stay Ready So You Don't Have to Get Ready

Selling your home doesn’t have to feel like a whirlwind. By putting systems in place and sticking to simple daily routines, you can keep your space ready for last-minute showings with less effort and stress.

Each step—whether it’s preparing a cleaning kit or arranging pet care—helps you respond with confidence instead of panic. Add in consistent communication with your real estate agent, and you’ve got a recipe for smoother showings and a faster sale.

After all, every showing is an opportunity. And the more prepared you are, the more likely you are to make a lasting impression that leads to the offer you’ve been waiting for.