In today’s connected world, privacy is no longer something we can take for granted, especially during one of life’s biggest transactions: buying or selling a home.
With doorbell cameras, smart home security systems, and voice activated devices becoming increasingly common, you might be surprised at just how often your conversations are being recorded. These devices are often always listening, always watching, and in many cases, legally permitted to do so within a private residence.
At RyanSellers.com Real Estate Group, we are committed not only to helping you navigate the logistics of real estate but also to protecting your interests, before, during, and after every showing or offer. This article serves as a timely reminder and essential guide: always think before you speak when stepping into a home that is not yours.
The Rise of Home Surveillance: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
Doorbell cameras like Ring, indoor video monitoring systems, and smart assistants such as Alexa or Google Home have changed the way we live, but they have also changed the way we buy and sell homes.
According to industry research, more than 25 percent of homes now have some form of smart surveillance. That means if you are attending an open house or walking through a private showing, there is a very real chance you are being recorded.
Most sellers do not disclose the presence of these devices unless required by law. And while some may argue that recording without permission is unethical, in many jurisdictions, it is entirely legal if it is happening in the seller’s own home.
What Buyers Say Could Hurt Their Negotiating Power
Imagine walking through a home you love and casually saying something like:
“I love this place so much, I would pay more if we had to.”
“This is exactly what we’ve been looking for.”
“Let’s just offer full price and get it over with.”
While these comments might seem innocent or harmless, if picked up on camera, they could tip off the seller and their agent about your eagerness. This puts you at a distinct disadvantage when it comes to negotiating price, conditions, or possession dates.
Even comments about what you can afford or what you are willing to compromise on can be detrimental. In today’s competitive market, strategy is everything, and showing your hand too early can cost you thousands.
Sellers, You Are Not Off the Hook Either
On the flip side, sellers should be equally careful when discussing confidential details about their motivation to sell, timelines, or willingness to accept less than the asking price.
Picture this: you step out of the room while a buyer’s agent walks through the home, and a family member blurts out, “We really need to sell before the end of the month or we could lose our financing.” If that comment is overheard or recorded, your leverage could vanish in an instant.
Selling a home requires finesse, planning, and perhaps most importantly, discretion.
Where to Have “Real” Conversations
When you are walking through a home, whether as a buyer or a seller, treat it like a stage. You are being observed, and anything you say or do might make its way back to the other party.
So where should you talk about the big stuff?
In your agent’s vehicle
Over a secure phone call
At your own home or office
Through encrypted messaging platforms
Always assume that in the home itself is not the right place for strategic discussions. Save your questions about offer price, seller motivation, or negotiation strategy for a private conversation with your trusted real estate advisor.
A True Story: What Not to Do
One buyer once walked into a home, looked around for two minutes, and said, “We will pay whatever they want. Just get it done.”
The agent tried to steer the conversation, but it was too late, the seller had an audio feed from their security system.
When it came time to negotiate, the seller insisted on full price with no conditions and knew the buyers would bite. And they did.
It cost them five thousand dollars more than they had planned, all because of one careless moment and a hidden microphone.
What We Recommend at RyanSellers.com Real Estate Group
At RyanSellers.com Real Estate Group, we offer more than just market knowledge and contract experience. We provide coaching and guidance that protects you every step of the way.
Here is how we help our clients avoid these privacy pitfalls:
We brief buyers and sellers before each showing. Our team reminds clients what to avoid saying and how to ask questions privately.
We encourage all important conversations to happen outside the property. Your strategies deserve privacy.
We represent your interests as if they were our own. If we suspect surveillance, we will help you adapt your strategy accordingly.
We do our due diligence. If there are known cameras or devices, we flag them early.
We understand that buying or selling a home is emotional. But even emotions need a game plan.
What To Do If You Suspect You Are Being Recorded
While you may not be able to demand disclosure, here are some simple tips to protect your privacy:
Assume all properties have cameras. It is the safest mindset.
Stay neutral. Avoid commenting on what you like or dislike until you are offsite.
Do not whisper or huddle in corners. This can still be picked up by microphones.
Keep facial expressions professional. Sellers can interpret your body language even without sound.
Talk to your agent privately after the visit. They will help you debrief and form a strategy based on your impressions.
Privacy and Negotiation Go Hand in Hand
In today’s smart-home world, privacy has become a critical part of real estate negotiations. When you say too much in the wrong setting, you risk weakening your bargaining position. That is why working with a savvy, experienced team matters more than ever.
At RyanSellers.com Real Estate Group, we understand that protecting your information is just as important as finding or selling your dream home. From strategy to execution, we walk with you every step of the way; always keeping your best interests top of mind.
Looking to buy or sell a home in Edmonton?
Call us today at 780.994.4663
Email [email protected] to get expert guidance and results that speak for themselves. Let us help you win; smart, strategic, and secure.