Laws on video and audio recording vary by state, but to cope with increased scrutiny from watchful sellers, some real estate professionals are advising their clients to be wary during showings. Cameras that capture a buyer’s exuberance or dissatisfaction while viewing a home could reveal important negotiation leverage for the seller to later use against you.
That’s why it’s important to work out a plan for communicating when viewing properties with your real estate agent. Some agents have even directed their clients to text them their comments while they walk through a home—even when they’re standing next to each other.
More and more property owners are purchasing cameras for their homes, especially before placing them on the real estate market. It’s something I make all of my buyers very aware of when showing property. One tactic I have used is to have my clients pretend the owner is sitting in the living room while viewing the home.
Some agents in our area are even making an effort to be more transparent about hidden cameras at their listings. The Northern Nevada MLS does not require REALTORS® to note whether there is audio or video inside a home listed for sale. Hopefully Nevada agents are advising buyer agents in the private remarks section which is not publicly shown. The South Lake Tahoe Association of REALTORS® however requires agents to provide this information to their MLS. Regardless it is always better to hold your opinion of a property till you exit the home. Seller’s may not even provide this information to their listing agent.