re: House Sellers: How common is it for a seller to require proof of funds before even showing

Every time.

Here's the problem: the seller wants to know if you're just being a lookie-loo and have no ability to buy before they spend a bunch of time putting away toasters, transporting dogs to the in laws house, figuring out if they need to pack costumes for dance if the showing runs long, etc.

It is a massive pain in the arse to hide shite in your office, move cat boxes, put dog bowls in the garage, etc., so yeah, I want to know if you're serious and able.