Staging and Selling your home

Hey all! So as you know (if you read my intro) I am a licensed real estate agent. When it comes to selling a home, it can become overwhelming.

Too much stuff and a potential buyer can't see themselves in your home.  An empty house and a non-visual buyer won't be able to see themselves in the home. As you can see, there can be complications when trying to sell.  Your best bet is to get rid of non-essential items.  Whether you put them in storage or start packing them away.  When it comes to an empty home, there are many companies and even some accredited agents that can stage your home so it doesn't feel so empty and a potential buyer can see how their furniture can be placed in a room when there are items strategically placed.  Yea, sounds crazy...Why spend more money when you're trying to sell...right?

Trust me, the better your home looks the faster it will sell.  It's like going on an interview.  You want to look your best and have great credentials that fit the job you are looking for.  The same is said for people looking for homes.  Most people want move in ready, or just paint and if necessary pull up carpet. Not everyone is a DIYer, even if they watch all the amazing shows on HGTV or the DIY channel. Some people have great ideas but can't execute.  Others don't have the vision.

So if you have a lot of knick knacks, personal photos, etc...down size the collection.  What you like others may not. And as you've seen on House Hunters, people have a lot to say about an owners home and décor, even if most of it will not be staying!  It can impact how someone sees a home and they can pass over it, even if its an amazing house.

This brings me into another section of staging and real estate.  For sale by owners.  I get it, I really do...you want to sell your house yourself.  Cut out the middle man and save the 4-6% an agent will charge for listing your home.  But guess what...the agent doesn't even get all 4-6%! Shocker right?! If they don't represent both sides, then they are only getting half. And then that half they got, gets split with their broker! If they do represent both sides they still split with their broker. Also, think about the time an agent invests into a listing.  Marketing, open houses, showing the house.  We are not paid until that house sells.  If you don't have the time to make the necessary updates to your home, staging and having the time to be at home for as long as it takes to sell, then I really suggest getting a realtor.  Interview a few and see who works best for you.  We are here to help you and get to your ultimate goal.  Selling your home!