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The Virtual Buyer

I often tell people that today's buyer is in a different league. With the Internet, virtual tours, digital photos and access to many types of "on-line tours" that are becoming available a buyer, with access to the Internet, truly does not need to leave the comfort of their home in order to decide whether or not to see a home.

They often make their decision right there at the computer screen whether the house is worth getting in the car (or plane - as I did) to see. And often, with relocations, it becomes necessary to view properties cross country or globally and the only way to do that is on-line!

I make it a practice to view www.Realtor.com on a regular basis to see the virtual tours and photos. I find myself "staging" the houses that look like they need it and wondering what the reasons are behind why there are those homes that have no photos or tours available. This is one of the most important tools after listing today's seller has in getting their house seen and sold.

There is never a second chance to make a first impression and staging is crucial for making that fabulous first impression whether on-line through amazing digital photos and virtual tours or in person as the buyer walks up to the door.

As Stagers, we make the job of Realtors, Sellers, Investors, Digital Photographers and Virtual Tour Operators much easier. We complement your services in many ways. Give us a call and we'll explain how!

Posted by Karen Otto, Collin County, Plano, TX Home Stager on 05/26/2007 02:35 PM

Comments (7)

collin county, home stager, home staging, dallas, texas, digital photos, marketing, preparing your home for sale, otto, plano, virtual tours

7 Comments on The Virtual Buyer

Karen, absolutely right on. Home staging + WOW listing photos = much faster sale.

This agent did not want to spend money on staging accessories, but look what one small prop and a change in camera angle did for her fireplace listing photo:

home staging foreclosure ho-hum unstaged fireplace listing photo

home staging foreclosure new camera angle that shows off contemporary style of home

Sorry to HOG your BLOG :)

05/26/2007 02:57 PM

by Sue Argue - NH Home Stager (Staged First Impressions)

Sue my favorite blog hog I love the camera angle and yes even the one prop makes a big difference. hope you're having a nice Saturday!

05/26/2007 03:00 PM

by Karen Otto, Collin County, Plano, TX Home Stager (Home Star Staging)

Karen - thanks for your post. Your sentence regarding never having a second chance to make a good first impression is so important when talking about real estate. As agents we all have seen the famous timing bell curve. We have to come out of the gate with all we've got. Making a poor first impression can cost our sellers a lot of money.

05/26/2007 03:13 PM

by Laguna Homes|Laguna Condos| Laguna Real Estate|Marlene Bridges (Sherman Smith & Associates)

Thank you for your comment Marlene - it's agents such as yourself who understand that "first impressions" make all the difference in the world to your seller's goal (selling the house!) and future clients who know you can get the job done.

05/26/2007 03:49 PM

by Karen Otto, Collin County, Plano, TX Home Stager (Home Star Staging)

Hi Karen,

Great post, so ture you only get one shot at a "first impression' and the MLS is the starting point!

05/27/2007 01:22 AM

by Penny Schoenbeck, AZ Home Styling (AZ Home Styling & Redesign)

Penny - you're right the MLS virtual tour and photos are the first impression for many of today's buyers that's why it's vital to have great photos online. It's a virtual open house!

05/27/2007 10:31 AM

by Karen Otto, Collin County, Plano, TX Home Stager (Home Star Staging)

Karen: You're absolutely right. Buyers are more technologically savvy these days. Cant say enough about making the first impression....... most often on the website and in pictures.

05/29/2007 09:28 AM

by Loreena Yeo - Realtor(R)/Broker proudly serving Frisco TX Real Estate (3:16 team REALTY)

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