From Ramschackle Roost to Yowzer Wowzer!
I have had a few homes that I have been asked to come out and evaluate prior to listing the home. One in particular came to mind. I arrived at the home and everything looked OK on the outside. The minute that I stepped into the home however, I knew that this was going to be one of "those" conversations.
The problem with the home was basically the amount of "stuff" everywhere and I mean everywhere! Entire walls covered with pictures, decoratives, loud wallpaper and unusual paint colors! Excessive amounts of furniture in every room! Knick Knacks on everything! I was afraid to turn around for fear of knocking something off. (I am not using pictures of this home so that no feelings are hurt)
This was going to be one of those delicate conversations that would have to be worded carefully and done with grace. I always have to step back a moment and recognize that the items in someone's home tell a story about those people. The myriad of decoratives were most likely very important to them.
The best approach for me is to begin with the discussion of the art of marketing a home. While we "live" in our homes on a daily basis, when we decide to "sell" our home, we then must take a different approach. I like to use the analogy of how companies will spend a ton of money to market a product. Therefore, we need to at least use some discretion and open mindedness in order to properly market a home.
My next step is to encourage them that by going ahead and packing up the knick knacks, the plate collections, etc. that they are then one step closer to being ready for the big move. Additionally, I warn them that we certainly don't want any of their collections or prized items to be accidentally broken during a showing. Most people really respond positively to these statements and are then willing to make the necessary changes prior to listing their home.
This home went from Ramshackle Roost to Yowzer Wowzer by listening to their agent, being open and willing to make the changes and then to follow through on them. This home sold quickly and for top dollar! Proper staging, less clutter and a clean home make all the difference in the world!
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