I have toured 2 houses in my neighborhood within the past month that have been languishing on the market and taken significant price reductions. In one case, the price reductions now total more than $100K! I am always curious when I see that taking place, so often take advantage of open house opportunities to view the property and gain some insight.
In both houses, there were some obvious (to me) and relatively simple "fixes" that could improve the appeal of the house to potential buyers. The first house contained a rainbow of paint colors, including turquoise, lavendar and faux techniques. Not exactly the neutrals that most buyers are looking for. The second contained an extensive and eclectic art collection covering every wall surface in the house. This has to be a distraction for potential buyers. In both cases the listing agent was not present at the open house, so I contacted them to offer my staging consultation services if the sellers were interested in making changes that could improve the appearance of the house.
Imagine my surprise when the response from each of the listing agents was, "Thank you for touring the house and your offer, but I already know a good stager." It was all I could do to restrain myself from responding, "THEN WHY HAVEN'T YOU CALLED THEM?"
In the current market where it is critical that a seller present their house in the best possible light, why would any realtor that has a relationship with a professional stager not utilize that resource prior to listing a house in need of help and most certainly prior to taking a price reduction? I would be naive to think that all homeowners jump at the chance to consult a stager when recommended, but in these cases it seems it was not even suggested to the seller.
Home Staging & Organizing provides a full range of real estate staging services in the Philadelphia area. http://www.stagingandorganizing.com/
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