Photo by John Wollwerth via Shutterstock
No matter how well-intentioned, when it’s time to sell your home taking the advice of friends and family while disregarding the advice of your agent is a recipe for slowing down your home’s sale. Your professional agent knows the current market and what buyers look for. In fact, they may even have specific buyers in mind; so mind your agent’s input for staging your home.
When staging, remember these things and follow your agent’s lead:
- They know the competition. Your agent has seen other homes like yours on the market. They recognize that when buyers see two or three similar houses in the same neighborhood, the one that resonates is the one they choose. Pitting your DIY staging against a professional’s is not the battle you want to take on if selling your home is your goal.
- Less is always more. Your agent knows that fewer pieces of furniture show your home better. But these aren’t just any pieces of furniture. Specific pieces attract buyers, while others repel them.
- The same holds true for collectibles. Some buyers cannot see themselves in a home with specific memorabilia and collectibles. This group includes sports and competition awards, trophies or doll and figurine collections. Even rock displays can be off-putting. Anything that personalizes your home makes it harder for buyers to see themselves there.
- Be willing to paint. Even if the deep, ocean blue wall evokes restful imagery to you, it may instill irritation in a potential purchaser. If your agent suggests toning down a color or painting a room in a neutral rather than orange, go with it. The best options are pale shades of cool or warm neutrals that showcase architectural details such as trim and crown-molding.
For the most exceptional selling experience, trust your real estate professional. They know the market, the pool of buyers and the competition. If you’re ready to put your home on the market, call for a consultation today.
About the Author
Jan Kennemer
Jan will show you how you can live close to Washington, DC – by public transit and/or highway – and still enjoy all the many amenities and friendliness of a quiet community. Jan is a life-long resident of Arlington, Va. So, she is very familiar with northern Virginia …Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria and close-in Fairfax. She knows where to find those little out-of the-way places where you will still get excellent value and a home that meets your needs. As a Realtor® for over 20 years, Jan has developed a customized system for marketing and selling properties which includes the latest technologies combined with tried and true practices. She has received special training in working with first time buyers, repeat buyers and seniors. She is a certified VHDA trainer and is certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES©). Jan is also a certified e-Pro. She gets results you want – the best price in the shortest time. Jan is dedicated to helping clients satisfy their needs and wants while providing them with a strong investment for the future. She is readily available to provide explanations and information. She won’t push you into making an uncomfortable choice. Jan helps you to fully understand the transaction, so that you can always make an informed decision based on facts and figures.