I recently listed a home that was suffering from lack of curb appeal. I was confident that with a little effort and elbow grease we could spruce the home up and highlight it's good features. The home would be quite inviting to passer-byers. I spent a great deal of time explaining to the seller that in this market first impressions are key. I also emphasized that the prospective buyer's perception of the property would determine the offering price.

Once a prospective buyer enter the home I do not want them to be disappointed. I believe in staging as well. I believe so strongly in staging that I provide professional consultation to all my seller's. If they elect not to use a stager, at least they have an idea what we need to do to prepare the home for market.

Well I guess my buyer were too agreeable. I received a phone call of reluctance. My seller's said they want to do the bare minimum no more, no less. I will not address a matter this serious over the phone. So I will calmly do my due diligence in person. I know if it is about the money now, it will be about the money in the end. In this market you have to fight to get the attention of the masses. I have seen so many homes that lack the simplest maintenance. Low effort = low return! 

To prepare or not to prepare? There is no option!