Valuables. Remind everyone in the family that strangers will be walking through their home during showings or open houses. Hide any valuables in a safe place. For security's sake, you should remove keys, credit cards, jewelry, crystal, furs and other valuables from the home or lock them away during showings. When hiding them, secure them in furniture rather than closets because a potential buyer will open closets to see the size etc. There is no reason to open furniture drawers unless they are also for sale.  

Prescription drugs. Many homeowners keep their prescription drugs in the bathroom cabinet or near their bed. A growing number of real estate professionals are reporting the theft of prescription drugs from sellers' homes during open houses. To safeguard against this, remove or lock up all prescriptions. It is possible for someone to ask to use the bathroom giving them access to your medicine cabinet in private. Find a way to keep prescription bottles in an unmarked box or container that is not noticeable to someone viewing your home.  

Personal information. Don't  leave personal information like mail or bills in the open where anyone can see it and potentially copy down critical information (like Social Security numbers or details from credit card or bank statements). Secure in a drawer out of sight. 

Electronics.  Small hand held devices, tablets, and laptops are easy for someone to pick up and remove from your home.  Keep them secured and out of sight in furniture drawers that should not be opened during a home showing.  Or secure them in your car or offsite during showings.  This is true for other valuables as well that might be small enough to tuck into a pocket or bag. 

Impromptu showings.  Licensed Realtors know not to show up without an appointment to a home especially if it's occupied. However, once a sign is in the yard, there are all kinds of people that might knock on your door and ask if they could find out more about the home. Some have even gone so far as to create a business card presenting themselves as a legitimate real estate agent. Do not allow them into your home. Take their card, then tell them that they will need to contact your realtor. Report their visit to your realtor.

Pet protocols. You are responsible for your pet when a potential buyer visits your home.  If possible, remove animals during showings.  Even the most friendly pet may react differently with a stranger in their home.  Buyers and agents are sometimes attacked, and the homeowner will be held liable. 

Doors and windows.  Realtors are aware that all windows and doors should be locked, or left as they were, when they view the home with their client. Some homeowners prefer not to lock a certain door because it sticks or is not functioning.  If you consider that a stranger is in your home, make sure that the home will be secured during your absence and does not look like a home with easy access.  

Expect the Unexpected. Consider how you will be notified.  Will the realtor call you and not your spouse?  Make sure the appropriate people are notified (including children and teens).  Consider keeping a chain lock on the door while you are home.  While agents may have followed protocol by notifying the owner, all members of the family may not be aware.  It's better to be safe!