The busy season is upon us as homeowners scramble to get their properties in tip top shape for sale. 

This year, I see a trend.  As I browse our local MLS listings, I am seeing a common phenomenon.  I know you have all experienced it as well.  Especially those of you who work in older neighbourhoods.  It is the 'Time Warp'.  I have never seen so many houses decorated in the 70s and 80s and then forgotten. 

There appears to be a surge of empty nesters leaving their family oriented streets.  One thing they all have in common is their decor.  I am seeing an awful lot of ornate furnishings and dusty rose carpets, curios jammed with nic nacs and wallpaper that I will respectfully refer to as 'vintage'.   Another thing these homeowners share is their resistance to bringing in a home stager.  And why should they?  Their home is just lovely the way it is.  Herein lies the tricky part.  It is a delicate balance to maintain when gently persuading one such homeowner to make a few necessary updates to get the most out of their home sale.  Being as sympathetic as possible is key.  I find I constantly remind myself that this was their home for many years and they wear their pride of ownership like a badge of honour.  

 Oddly enough, these are the types of projects I love to get my hands on.  I love dealing with the people as much as the properties and to encourage someone to move on to the next phase in a positive way makes my job worthwhile.  Does anyone out there have any specific tips for dealing with the more mature set and their lifetime of belongings?  I would love to hear them.  I am always looking for new ways to improve this particular relationship.