The listing appointment has been completed, papers are signed, and now the real work begins as the Sellers begin to gear up to prepare their home to sell. Some homes require a bit more work to get ready to be on the market. The time between signing the listing agreement and being ready for the photographer is a critical time to get the necessary repairs, cleaning, and staging completed.
As I was at my seller's home today to go through the home room by room, it was evident my clients had hit their ceiling of stress and exhaustion. Although the home was shaping up very nicely, they were exhausted and snipping at one another. My role was to stay positive and encourage them the best I could.
I have found that my role as a real estate agent involves being a sounding board, remaining calm in the storm, and, not allowing the tension to affect my own stress level. This takes practice, paying attention to the room, and picking up on the various stress indicators.
Here are a few suggestions to help your clients navigate the exhaustion:
- Discuss the realities of preparing a home to be placed on the market. This means frank conversations regarding the cost of repairs, window cleaning, re-mulching, trimming hedges, power washing, deep cleaning, carpets, etc. Just the extra expense alone can create a stressful situation for a seller.
- Help your clients out by providing a timeline for the things that need to be done. I have found when we get out the calendar, we can then realistically schedule the necessary items in a "do-able" manner.
- A gentle reminder to do some self-care is essential. Getting plenty of sleep, eating right, and taking time away from the home like going on a walk, are all important to help keep the exhaustion down.
- Remind them there is an end in sight. Remember the goal is to get the home sold for top dollar and when that offer comes in, all of the stress and exhaustion will become a distant memory. That is until it's time to move, but that is another post. 😀
- If you can, be at the house with them the day before the photo shoot. It's always better to have another set of eyes on things as we can often spot items that need attention. Something as simple as making sure the blinds are level and all turned the same way can make a big difference in the pictures.
- On the day of the shoot, I like to send encouraging messages to let them know how great the home looks, thank them for their hard work, and remind them to take a breather.
Whew! Preparing a home to sell takes a lot of work. Helping your clients navigate this part of the process is key. When you can be a positive cheerleader, your clients with your help, will sail through these stressful times. Your role during this part of the process is vital.
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