I received an e-mail from a past client a few weeks ago requesting that I stop by to give her a few tips on how to get her condo ready for market. I was thrilled to hear from her; we have kept in touch with each other for 10 years now. I must admit that I feel privileged to have the opportunity to list her condo. 

When I first met this particular client she was a very young professional. Being young and working long hours a condo was a good fit for her lifestyle. Ten years ago in Columbus, Ohio and the surrounding suburban areas there were not many condos to choose from especially in the south end of Columbus where her office was located. Currently the Columbus and suburban markets are saturated with re-sale and newly built condos. My client only had a few possibilities that were available at that time and she purchased a really fantastic condo in Dublin a northwest suburb of Columbus.

The condo being just a few years old at that time was in great condition with many quality features. She thought that the pool and clubhouse were nice community amenities that would allow her to get to know her neighbors. Ten years later I am now in the process of compiling a market analysis for this sweet client. As I am reviewing the MLS listings that are currently for sale I am starting to get concerned. The current values are not where they should be. I decided to preview all the competitive listings currently on the market in her community.

Boy was I surprised what I saw. Condos with really great amenities were devaluated by their interior condition. A few bruised apples are spoiling the bushel.  Dirty dishes in the sink, clothes all over the floor, computer cords in the middle of the room. I just could not believe the interior condition of the majority of the condos that I previewed. Such a shame these condos are devaluating the community. Even the best condo that is currently listed was not completely staged. There were magnets all over the refrigerator, clutter on the countertops and newspapers on the table. The way you live in your home is not the way you showcase a home when it is on the market for sale.

After reviewing all the statistics the seller chose a very aggressive list price. This client has maintained her condo very well over the years; I only had a few suggestions for improvement. Her condo was listed a few weeks ago. I have implemented an extensive marketing plan that will provide assistance in obtaining the quickest possible sale as the current market will bear. For more information about condos please visit my website KarenGorski.com. Thank you for reading this post.