The poll of more than 100 independent estate agents by website Move with Us found that 60% of potential buyers prefer it if the owner is not present during the viewing.

One in ten potential buyers were actually put off by the existing owner being present.

Other off-putting factors were smoking and other bad smells and messy properties.

Robin King, director at Move with Us, said: “Although the homeowner is the person who really knows the property best, potential buyers can often feel uncomfortable in their presence as they are unable to freely view the property and ask whatever questions they like. This can prohibit the potential buyer’s ability to fully explore and evaluate the property and decide whether it is their ideal home.

“Psychologically, it’s also important for a potential buyer to feel comfortable as soon as they walk through the door, picturing the property as their new home. Indeed, for most people, this illusion can be broken if the existing owner is present. Furthermore, if there’s any tension between the existing owner and buyer, the feelings of negativity can be associated with the property, actively putting off the potential buyer.

“While we may all think we’re great at selling our own homes, owners can comfortably step aside, letting their estate agent do what they do best – sell houses!”