A home showing should be an exciting step toward finding the right property, but sometimes what happens behind the scenes can create unexpected legal and ethical questions. From hidden cameras and personal belongings to service animals and unusual seller requests, not every showing situation is as straightforward as it seems.
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) explored three interesting real estate scenarios that still offer important lessons for buyers, sellers and agents in 2026.
1. When a Home Has More Than Just Household Belongings
Imagine preparing a home for an open house only to discover something unusual in the basement, such as a cannabis growing operation. Should an agent move the plants somewhere else to avoid upsetting potential buyers? Not so fast. Transporting or handling controlled substances can create legal complications, even in states where certain cannabis activities are permitted.
The better approach is to work with the seller to secure the area, communicate any showing restrictions appropriately and avoid taking actions that could create unnecessary liability.
2. Hidden Cameras: Is Your Home Showing Being Recorded?
Smart home technology has changed the way people live, but it has also created new concerns during real estate showings. Security cameras, video doorbells and recording devices may capture activity while prospective buyers tour a property.
Buyers should remember that conversations about how much they love a home, what they might offer or how much they are willing to negotiate could potentially be overheard or recorded. At the same time, agents should never tamper with a seller’s internet connection or security equipment to disable recording devices.
Recording laws vary by state, particularly when audio is involved. Sellers and agents should understand applicable disclosure requirements, while buyers should be mindful of private conversations during showings.
3. Service Animals, Allergies and Showing Restrictions
What happens when a seller has a severe allergy to dogs but a prospective buyer needs to bring a service animal? This can create a difficult situation that requires consideration of everyone’s circumstances.
Fair housing protections and disability-related accommodation requirements can affect how these situations are handled. A seller’s concerns should be taken seriously, but requests involving service or assistance animals should not be dismissed automatically. Depending on the circumstances, alternatives such as a virtual showing may help everyone move forward.
Why Showing Etiquette Matters in 2026
Real estate showings involve more than opening doors and walking through rooms. Buyers, sellers and agents all have responsibilities when it comes to respecting private property, protecting personal information and following applicable laws.
A little preparation, communication and common courtesy can prevent a simple home tour from turning into a much bigger problem. Whether you’re buying your first home or preparing to sell, understanding proper showing etiquette helps make the experience smoother for everyone involved.
Can sellers record buyers during a home showing?
Recording may be permitted in some circumstances, but laws governing video and audio recordings vary by state. Audio recording often has specific consent requirements.
Can a real estate agent turn off security cameras during a showing?
No. Agents should not tamper with a seller’s security equipment, internet connection or other property systems. Buyers should assume their activity may be recorded where appropriate disclosures and laws permit.
Can a seller refuse a service animal during a home showing?
Not automatically. Disability accommodation and fair housing requirements may apply. Individual circumstances, applicable laws and reasonable accommodations must be considered.
Who is responsible for proper home showing etiquette?
Buyers, sellers and real estate agents all have responsibilities. Buyers should respect the property, sellers should communicate restrictions, and agents should help ensure showings follow applicable laws and professional standards.
Source: REALTOR® Magazine
“3 Showing Dilemmas: Illegal, Unethical or Just Plain Rude?”
National Association of REALTORS®
