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. 

 

7 Comments on The Power of Gentle Persuasion

FEB
26
2008
224,626 Points Outside Blog

Hi Michele-

I have found that before and after photos with wallpaper and some of the furnishings removed really illustrate the clean look and more usable sq footage.  You can also emphasize the breakage factor if there are antiques that should be moved out, or other furnishings.  They can protect those precious items by packing them away safely!

Kathy

1:53pm • #1

I couldn't agree more!  I think it's the empty nesters getting ready to go smaller or move south!  There are sooooo many of those 70's and early 80's houses on the market right now.

Should show some very impressive before and afters!!

 

6:35pm • #2

Hi Michelle.  It truly is the use of gentle persuasion, through photos from your portfolio and pictures of what they have to compete with.

I had a client who loved her raspeberry carpets and almost fell over when I told her that the carpet was out of date.  they had a beautiful well maintained home and I just described to them what they were competing against.  and what the majority of sellers want - ready to move into and up to date. It worked.

9:49pm • #3
269,928 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

HI Michelle! I emphasize the fact they are moving so let's get started early and pack the collectibles and valuables now and create visual square footage.  I try to use words like neutralize and stylish - never outdated or worn. I offer assistance to help them move to storage or their garage. (2 strong, young men resonable fee)  If the client feels you are working as a team to help them sell their home quickly they will be more receptive to your plan.  Best Wishes-I love challenging projects!!

Cathy Lee, ASP  www.cldesignservices.com

10:19pm • #4
2 Featured Posts
I agree with Kathy, photos are key to win over the client - they speak louder than words.
11:19pm • #5
FEB
27
2008
206,053 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog Hit Router

Perhaps that is why the staging industry has so taken off in the last couple of years?  70's and 80's go away, and go away quick...AHHHHH staging is the answer. 

12:48am • #6
Thanks everyone for your ideas.  I think the elderly clients are my favourite.  They really make you work and I have a greater sense of accomplishment at the end!  
6:47am • #7


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Michele Muir, IDDP, ISP, CDECA Silk Purse Decor, Halifax NS

Halifax, NS

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Silk Purse Decor

Address: Halifax, NS, B3M 3B4

Office Phone: (902) 999-2674

Cell Phone: (902) 999-2674

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