Homes have surveillance systems

Some buyers and agents don’t realize that more and more homes are being equipped with surveillance systems – cameras and some also utilize microphones. Most newer systems now have phone apps where you can remotely see live video and hear sound. They system can also send the owner an alert when motion or sound is detected so the owner can now watch live video.

Knowing this information – When previewing homes, it’s a good idea to keep in mind that you and your agent are probably being watched and recorded. While in the home, you may want to keep your conversation to a minimum and just talk about general things and not specifics about your possibility on making an offer, offer prices, financing details, contingencies, etc. By doing so, you may be giving the seller an advantage by knowing what your intentions are. So, this can now put you at a disadvantage in negotiating with the Seller should you actually decide to go through with an offer.

Here is a typical scenario:

  • You have been searching for the right home for quite some time.
  • You have previewed lots of homes.
  • You now find the perfect home.
  • You and your agent walk through the home and you mention that this is the perfect home for you and would love to purchase it.
  • You’re so excited about the home that you tell your agent you would be willing to make your offer above the list price.

As a buyer, when you find your perfect home, you should never put yourself in a disadvantaged negotiating position. When previewing homes with your agent, be sure that you and your agent only have general conversation and not get into any particulars. Understanding that your viewing could be video and audio recorded, here are a few recommendations while in the home with your agent:

  • Never state you want to buy the home while there
  • It’s OK to make positive and negative opinions about the home but you should balance it. If you make a positive comment then find something you may not like
  • Never talk about the possibility of making an offer or discuss offer terms. Wait until you are outside and away from the home to discuss all of the details
  • Any time you view a home, just think that the owners can see and hear you

Surveillance Systems are very useful devices that many buyers would want for peace of mind. However, just understand that those security systems could be used to your detriment when looking at homes.