Staging costs - $0.00, Selling in record time - priceless!

By
Real Estate Agent with VA & FHA home buyers, vacation homes, foreclosure homes


Just Sold - 500 Creekside Terrace #202, Langley Condo for sale on Whidbey Island


I'm happy to report that we just closed on this great condo in Langley, here on Whidbey Island, WA. Despite the real estate market doldrums, we were able to sell this condominium in only 35 days, compared to the last condo to sell in this community which took 217 days. We also sold for a higher price, almost unheard of in the current market!

So how did we do it? Answer: By having great sellers who were willing to follow some simple staging recommendations.

When I first visited this condominium it was packed to the rafters with antique furniture and knickknacks. It was very clean, and in great condition, but buyers couldn't see how big it was inside, and all the "stuff" distracted from the appearance and made it feel old. I asked my sellers to remove almost everything, and to just create a couple of vignettes.

My clients were fantastic. They did everything I asked, and cleaned the condo until it sparkled. They didn't paint or replace the carpet, they didn't buy any furniture or other decorator items. They arranged a couple of sitting areas so buyers could relax and enjoy the rooms, and they put some clean towels in the baths and tied them with ribbons. They used what was there and made the home feel new and livable, and opened it up for buyers to imagine themselves in the home.

Success - we got a lot of showings, and were able to sell in just over a month for a very fair price. Two other condos in the same complex remain on the market with an average time on market of 247 days. Neither has been staged to sell.

Proof once again that staging doesn't have to be expensive, or over-the-top dramatic. Usually the best staging involves just clearing away the "stuff", so buyers can see the home as their own. I just love working with great sellers!

Comments (4)

Gayle Barton, Forsyth County Real Estate
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY Georgia Properties - Cumming, GA
Cumming GA Homes For Sale (404) 710-0204

Great post Hal.  I goes to show that will sellers are a MAJOR step in the path to a sale!

Oct 28, 2011 05:17 AM
Hal Hovey
VA & FHA home buyers, vacation homes, foreclosure homes - Oak Harbor, WA
Realtor - Oak Harbor Homes For Sale Whidbey Island

I agree, I always tell my sellers we are in a partnership when it comes to selling their home. I may be responsible for marketing, but they are responsible for its appearance and curb appeal.  I loved these sellers, they were fantastic to work with!

Oct 28, 2011 05:31 AM
Li Read
Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) - Salt Spring Island, BC
Caring expertise...knowledge for you!

Well done, you...good rapport with your clients, too.   

Oct 28, 2011 05:47 AM
Hal Hovey
VA & FHA home buyers, vacation homes, foreclosure homes - Oak Harbor, WA
Realtor - Oak Harbor Homes For Sale Whidbey Island

Thanks Li!

Oct 28, 2011 12:09 PM