Strategies to Ensure Your Home Doesn't Linger on the Market

Strategies to Ensure Your Home Doesn't Linger on the Market

A few years ago, I first met Clara, a homeowner with a heart full of dreams and a beautiful property that, for some reason, just wouldn't sell. As we sat on her porch, sipping coffee and watching the hummingbirds dance around her gorgeous garden, she shared her frustrations and worries. I could relate. I've been in the real estate business long enough to know that every home has its buyer; it's just a matter of making the right match. Clara’s contract was about to expire with another agent which is why she had reached out to me directly to discuss her next strategy. She had found my website and was ready to work with an expert. Here are some of the points I worked on her with.

The Art and Science of Home Staging

Every home has a story, and staging is about bringing that story to life. Over my lifetime in real estate, I've seen homes transform from simple living spaces to dream homes with just a few touches. It's not just about placing furniture or painting walls; it's about creating an ambiance, a feeling. I often tell my clients that buyers don't just purchase a house; they invest in a lifestyle. And with the right staging, we can make them see the life they could lead in that house.

Clara’s house was a tiny cape cod. One of the things we changed that made a major difference in the presentation of her home was the living room layout. It was currently shaped to be centered around a tv. We made adjustments to make it a more conversational and flowing room which made those who entered feel welcomed and wanted.

The Power of Professional Photography

In today's digital age, the first impression is often the last. And that's why I always emphasize the importance of professional photography. I've collaborated with some of the best photographers who, with their skill, capture not just the layout of a home but its essence. The way the morning sun fills the living room, the serenity of the backyard, or that cozy reading nook by the window – these are the moments that make a house a home. And through photographs, we can share these moments with potential buyers, making them fall in love at first sight.

Pricing: The Balancing Act

Setting the right price for a home is more art than science. It's a delicate balance of understanding the home's worth, the current market dynamics, and the homeowner's expectations. I've always believed in an open dialogue with my clients. Together, we analyze comparable properties, market trends, and the unique features of their home to arrive at a price that's competitive yet fair. After all, the right price can make all the difference between a home that sells quickly and one that lingers on the market and slashes prices.

Promotion: Beyond Traditional Listings

Listing a property is just the beginning. In my experience, effective promotion can significantly amplify the reach and appeal of a property. Beyond traditional listings, I leverage the power of social media, virtual tours, and local events to showcase homes. It's about creating a buzz, making people talk, and ensuring that the property reaches the right audience. From Instagram posts to virtual open houses, every strategy is tailored to the property and its potential buyers.

After implementing these strategies under my care of her home’s listing, Clara's home found its perfect buyer in no time. The joy and relief in her eyes were priceless. It was a reminder of why I do what I do.

Selling a home is more than just a transaction; it's a journey filled with emotions, dreams, and aspirations. And every homeowner deserves a partner who understands this. If you're thinking of selling your home and want someone who'll not just list it but champion it, I'm here for you.

Let's work together to ensure your home finds its perfect match. Reach out today, and let's turn your home selling journey into a success story.

The True Value of Your Home: Ensuring You Don't Sell Below Worth

The True Value of Your Home: Ensuring You Don't Sell Below Worth

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the room as I sat down with Sarah, a long-time resident of our community. Her eyes, filled with a mix of regret and hope, told a story of underselling her cherished family home. Her brother was the POA and picked an agent at random before reaching out to siblings or using valued resources. This poignant moment reinforced my belief in the profound importance of understanding one's home value, not just as a number, but as a culmination of community, true value, memories, efforts, and dreams. Do not lose tens of thousands of dollars on your home sale!

Market Analysis & The Intricacies of Micro Markets

Real estate isn't just about bricks and mortar; it's about understanding the pulse of communities, neighborhoods, and even streets. While broad market trends give us a general overview, the real magic lies in understanding micro markets.

For instance, two homes in the same city, just a few blocks apart, can have vastly different values. Why? Because micro markets consider factors like proximity to local amenities, the reputation of nearby schools, historical significance, community events, and even future urban development plans.

I've walked the streets of neighborhoods, understanding the subtle nuances that make one block more desirable than the next. It's these intricacies, these micro-trends, that can significantly impact your home's value.

Remember the old café around the corner, where everyone gathers on Sunday mornings? Or the park where families convene and children play? These aren't just locations; they're experiences that potential buyers are investing in. And understanding this can make a world of difference in your home's valuation. Make sure you are working with someone like myself to ensure your micro market is being taken into consideration when priced.

Home Features & Expert Opinion

Every home has its story, its unique quirks, and features. Maybe it's the hand-carved fireplace mantle passed down through generations or the sunroom that has witnessed countless sunsets and heart-to-heart conversations. These features aren't just architectural details; they're memories, stories waiting to be shared and continued.

When I walk through homes, I don't just see rooms; I see potential, stories, and value. And when it comes to pricing, these stories play a pivotal role. It's not just about square footage or the number of bedrooms; it's about the laughter, tears, and memories that echo in the hallways. My role is to ensure that these stories are told, that they add value to your listing, and that the next homeowner understands and appreciates them.

Work with a professional Real estate agent

Understanding the true value of your home is a journey, one that requires expertise, empathy, and a deep understanding of both macro and micro market trends. If you're considering selling your home, no matter where it's located, I'm here to guide you, to ensure that your home's story is told, and that its value is realized to the fullest. Let's embark on this journey together. Reach out, and let's ensure your home gets the value, respect, and love it truly deserves.

Slowing Real Estate Market – What You Need to Know as a FSBO Seller

If you're thinking of selling your home without the help of a real estate agent, you'll need to be prepared for a bit more work. Here's what you need to know about selling in a buyer's market.

There have always been sellers who have been willing to forgo the help of a professional real estate agent to avoid the commission costs of their services. In the brisk seller’s market of recent years, FSBO (For Sale By Owner) listings could easily gain attention through a simple online listing and a yard sign (And yet they still averaged a sales price of 10% or more less than agent listed properties). As the market shifts away from this frenzy, FSBO sellers may need to reexamine their strategy.

In a buyer's market, FSBO listings need to be extra creative in order to pique buyers' interests. Platforms like Zillow and Trulia offer the ability to add videos and pictures to your listing, as well as open houses. You can also try agents who offer a limited listing on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) for a small fee.

Most importantly, selling without an agent is more work for the seller. As the market slows, a FSBO must be prepared for a longer wait to sell their home. Additionally, with falling home prices, the longer it takes to sell your home, the more money you stand to lose. If it is a greedy seller, the seller will likely continue to receive frustrating low ball offer. It is extremely challenging to represent yourself when selling property- especially when you do not know what the heck you are doing, what the contracts really mean as far as responsibility go, and you are an easy target for agents to negotiate with.

Enjoy the phone calls from hundreds of agents trying to list your property as well! If that does not sound appealing to you, give me a call instead and let’s sell your house with a real strategy.

What Stays With The Home?

More than one seller has been surprised to find that their favorite chandelier is not theirs to take when they move. First-time home sellers might be especially confused when confronted with an exclusion form presented by their agent. Understanding what is, and is not included in the sale by statute is important to avoid disappointment on both sides.

The first rule of thumb is to consider if the item is nailed down, bolted, mounted, or planted. This covers a wide range of items both inside and outside the home. This might seem simple enough, but the debate about what constitutes a “fixture” has caused many post-sales lawsuits. Fixtures will stay with the home unless specifically excluded. This includes light fixtures, shelves, cabinets, built-in shelves, and more.

Consider the mount for the big-screen TV. It might seem logical to assume the mount would go with the TV when the sellers leave, but technically it’s likely considered a fixture as it’s bolted to the wall. What about a window-mounted air conditioner? If it’s sitting in the window, it’s typically personal property, if there is a hole in the wall to accommodate it, then it’s a likely fixture.

Outdoor items are subject to the same rules. Anything planted in the yard goes with the home, as does furniture or other items bolted to the ground. In that scenario, an arbor or patio cover bolted to a concrete slab would stay. Contrary to everything just outlined, however, curtains typically go with the home.

The language in the Pennsylvania Agreement of Sale lists standard inclusions for home sales. We will review this in detail!

If you are ready to buy or sell a home, make sure and discuss with your agent what you want to add or exclude to the sale. This is the best way to avoid disappointment at best or a courtroom at worst.

8 Things Buyers Notice

8 Things Buyers Notice as Soon as they Walk In

Buyers notice everything – good and bad. From the moment they walk in the front door, they are trying to determine if this is the right home for them and their family. If you have your home listed for sale, paying attention to what the buyers notice can mean the difference between an offer and a missed opportunity.

8 Things Buyers Notice as Soon as they Walk In

1.     Light – A bright home is inviting. Make sure you fill your home with lots of natural light or a soft evening glow.

2.     Smell – Nothing is less inviting than a strong odor. Even candles and air fresheners can be overwhelming. Less is more and make sure nothing unpleasant is lingering.

3.     Space – Remove any unneeded furniture and offer a spacious home which flows.

4.     Ceilings – Of course you can’t make your ceilings higher, but make sure they are free from water stains because buyers will look up.

5.     Pictures and Personal Items – Remove personalization as much as possible so the buyers can imagine their family in the home.

6.     Outdated Furnishings and Fixtures – If your home is filled with hand-me-downs, consider a professional stager. Old wall paper or outdated paint colors should be replaced as well.

7.     Dirty, Grimy Rooms – Most important, clean everything thoroughly. Nothing is less appealing than a dirty home.

Tips for Buying and Selling at The Same Time

Tips for Buying and Selling at the Same Time

Either buying or selling a home can be extremely stressful, it can be even more overwhelming if one is trying to do both at the same time. The good news is that this happens all the time and by following a few simple tips, both buying and selling can be a seamless process.

Tips for Buying and Selling at the Same Time

The good news is that you’re planning to move any way. Before you list your home for sale, why not start packing now? Take personal items and excess furnishings and pack them up and move them to storage. Not only will your home look larger and neater, you are getting a start on the move.

Next make sure your agent, or agents, understands the timeline and requirements. There are many standard contingencies which can protect you from owning two homes at once, or none at all. Not only can the purchase of your new home be contingent on successfully closing on your current one but you can also reverse the process and ensure you find a replacement before the close as well.

Finally, get the entire family involved. Be excited about the change and create a moving plan in which everyone has a task and there is a plan for the move itself. By taking a few initial steps, moving can be fun and easy.