I just listed a home for a past client.
He has spent thousands of dollars getting in readying the home not counting personal hours painting, cleaning and updating.
I laughed, during the signing of the listing documents my seller says, "show my house but don't w
alk on the floors or carpets they are perfect." He looked at me laughing and then says, "What?" with a shrug of his shoulders. So I say, "how exactly how do you expect me to levitate myself and potential buyers through your home?" Buyers have to feel comfortable and be able to look over the property.
My seller just remodeled and installed all new flooring and carpet throughout. He worked a few months getting the home ready to sell and it looks great...nicely done. So nice in fact, that we listed it and already have several showings scheduled. So now he is concerned with the rain and nastier weather that they will soil the carpets and mark up the flooring.
Clinck the link below to fixing up the inside of your home and other useful selling tips. http://www.flexitrealty.com/RealEstateTips/HomeSelling/getready4.html
Options for these issues is simple. I shared with him to purchase the plastic runner material and place on the carpets before the showing, or there are these slip over the shoes covers. They sell then by the box and can easily take care of the problem. Or we simply ask people to remove their shoes.
My suggestion was to go with the plastic carpet runner versus the slip over shoes booties. If you leave the booties some may not take the time to put them on and/or take them with them , thereby increasing his costs. I know the plastic carpet runner costs a bit more, but I thought the flooring would have more protection and less chance of someone ignoring the "remove" shoes request.
I have used the plastic stretch material in high traffic patterns for hallways, in front of window, bathrooms and bedrooms with a strip of the runner in front of each closet as well.
He's going to think about it and get back with me on which method he wants to use for showings and open houses.
People take pride in their homes no matter how simple or expensive and want it protected from damage during the selling process. Keeping carpets and flooring clean is one more issue to contend with in foul weather.
What works best for your showing and selling process?
Live in Grand Rapids or West Michigan area, not under contract? Like to sell or buy a home....give me a call. It could save you thousands in your next real estate transaction. Always confidential, Never Pressured.
"Help is only a Call or Click away!"©2006-2009
Call Toll Free: 877-667-4699
Local: 616-784-2360 Email: garywhite@FlexItRealty.com
;)
;)
It's funny in our neck of the woods people do not think twice about taking off their shoes or putting booties on if they really do not want to remove their shoes. We are in a high end luxury market so perhaps it;s just more main stream. Good luck and since I have small children and we are all used to removing our shoes I certainly can side with your seller! A clean house is a nice house!