For many reasons real estate agents often hesitate to suggest necessary improvements to sellers. Whether it's a fear of losing the listing, avoiding an awkward conversation, not wanting to embarrass or insult the homeowner....they make the decision to keep silent.
Keeping silent is not in the best interest of the sellers.
Many times, prior to a Home Staging consult, I've been asked by agents NOT to bring up a certain needed improvement. The agent tells me the seller won't make the change....the seller doesn't have the budget.... or the agent has already suggested it and got a negative response.
When I'm asked by an agent not to mention something, my reply is "sorry, that's not how I work". It's my job to tell sellers what I know could cost them a sale....it's not my job to tell sellers what I think they want to hear.
Home Stagers don't keep information to themselves when it comes to improving a listing. Home Stagers point out any and all needed improvements, no matter how large or how small. Ultimately, it's up to the sellers to decide which improvements they will make. It's THEIR decision, not mine, and not the agent's.
Don't underestimate the power of explanation....informing sellers WHY a change needs to be made and how that change could directly effect their sale will usually result in the seller taking the necessary action.
Time and time again I've had surprised agents tell me that their sellers replaced the carpet or painted all the bedrooms or removed the excess furniture after I had explained the reasoning behind it.
It's been my experience that sellers will do what needs to be done if they understand the value in doing so!
Comments(42)