Keeping It Simple - Let's Get That House Sold

You have an appointment to show a house.  It was scheduled far enough in advance for the homeowner to do all the little things that make the home look its best.  They turn on the lights, open window treatments to let in daylight and show off the view (when it is attractive), put away extraneous things that make the place look too lived in (read cluttered).  A quick cleaning of counters, appliances and floors when necessary and anything else that detracts from the pristine condition of the property adds to the chances that their home will be chosen over another similar option in the marketplace.

Unfortunately, so many times when I ring the bell and am let in by the homeowner, there isn't a light on in the house.  The decor is dark and the place looks dismal.  I can't think of a reason in the world why they would choose to show their place, if they really want to sell it and move on, in anything but its best light (no pun intended).  It is absolutely true that you never get a second chance to make a great first impression.  If they think they're saving money on electric, or they believe the agent can turn the lights on as they go around, they're making a big mistake.  Within the first seven seconds a prospective buyer knows whether this home will make it to their short list.  They will fall in love . . . or not, that fast.

There should be a primer for all home sellers, telling them what they need to do on an ongoing basis to be a proactive part of the home selling process.  It is incumbent on us as professionals to warn them about the things that can be an impediment to a sale.  We have a partnership, we and they, with a similar goal, to get the property sold within their timeframe, at the best price possible and with the least amount of stress.  We really can't expect them to know what we do.  The language of real estate is not one they speak every day.  Preparation is the cornerstone of a successful sale.