Hazards of Selling

Regarding “Sellers Beware: There Are Hazards in Showing a Home” by Lew Sichelman, Feb. 11: Last year my husband and I were in the progress of selling our home in Woodland Hills. We had already purchased another home.

Our listing agent suggested we leave some furnishings in the house (it would show better). At least three or four times a week we visited the house. Agents’ business cards were left by the door and other signs of viewing were evident. Windows and doors were left unlocked, lights were left burning, air-conditioning was left on. On one occasion, a very valuable antique lamp was missing (read stolen).

One client who was in the process of making an offer had decided he wanted another walk-through, but his agent wasn’t available. He forced open a kitchen window to gain entry and left muddy footprints on kitchen counter tops and floor.

I would never again sell a house that was not occupied full time, or I would demand the listing agent be present for any showing. And if the house was not occupied, I certainly would remove all furnishings.

CHARLOTTE KENDIG

Oxnard