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FLOOR PLANS, VALUE ADDED

By
Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Realty Assoc., Inc.

About 2 years ago I was looking for something to set me apart from other listing agents.  One new service I offered was to do floor plans for all listings above $120,000 =/-.  I don't think I have a set rule for this, yet.  When I'm in a listing meeting going over what I offer, the seller's see the value.  When showing my listings, I always ask what their impression is of the floor plans and it has consistently been something the buyer considered of value.  I haven't been able to tie a sale directly to the floor plans but have been told by the buyer, more than once at settlement, that they're appreciative; to able to refer back to them when considering which home they would ultimately choose.

When a property has a large lot it is useful to define the boundaries' and where the buildings are positioned.  The average time to prepare a final plan is an hour or two depending upon the size of the home and it takes me 2 visits to get it right.  I find this therapeutic. 

I am a creature of habit and use Corel Draw, although there are many good CAD programs out there for a very reasonable price.  I have one but prefer the old way. 

I also prepare a binder which is positioned on the kitchen counter or someplace where it won't be overlooked.  I ordered RE/MAX silver embossed, leather binders from a supplier which includes the listing sheet, disclosures, monthly utility costs, floor plans, plot plans, regional RE/MAX sales comparisons, personal information, and more depending upon the need. 

When a seller is considering a service in a listing presentation the level of professionalism may make a difference.

NoShotScott

Scott J. Fonner

www.sfonner.com

www.valuemypahome.com

Michael Setunsky
Woodbridge, VA
Your Commercial Real Estate Link to Northern VA

Scott, I also include a floor plan on all of my listings. I sold an office condo a while back and included a floor plan. The new owners sold it a year or so later through another real estate company. Their package had my floor plan in it. The agent didn't even bother to take my company information off of the drawing. I didn't know if I should have been flattered or irritated. Thanks.

Oct 12, 2008 01:29 AM
Kris Wales
Keller Williams Realty - Lakeside Market Center - Macomb, MI
Real Estate Blog & Homes for Sale search site, Macomb County MI

Scott. I think this is an awesome idea.  One question:  What do you tell your sellers of listings under $120,000?  

Oct 12, 2008 01:29 AM
Scott J. Fonner
RE/MAX Realty Assoc., Inc. - Camp Hill, PA

I have done a few in the lower range.  I don't bring it up!  I have too many in the lower range right now and I'm trying to position myself for higher end sellers. 

Recently a listing expired, this happens, and the new agent and I had the chance to chat.  I gave her the floor plans after eliminating my personal information.  Good will goes along way.  Michael, as to your plans being included in the package, I'd be flattered.

Thanks for commenting.

NoShotScott

Scott J. Fonner

Oct 12, 2008 01:38 AM
Richard Shuman
The Only B.S. I Have is from the University of Massachusetts - Lake Mary, FL
Real Estate Broker - Orlando Area - Love Referrals

What a great idea. i wouldn't mind doing some of these extra things as long as the seller prices the home close to its value!

Oct 12, 2008 01:54 AM
Carol Swain
Keller Williams Real Estate - Langhorne, PA
Realtor, -www.swainsells.com- Bucks County, Pa

I have had this idea and have applied it to some of my listings.  I think it is a great tool.

Oct 12, 2008 03:07 AM
Mary Strang
Viroqua, WI

I would love to do floor-plans but not sure which program would be the best to use any advise?

Oct 12, 2008 03:21 AM
Scott J. Fonner
RE/MAX Realty Assoc., Inc. - Camp Hill, PA

Primarily, I do this to get the listing.  I bought a CAD program at Best Buy, don't remember the maker but didn't like it.  There are supplier in the Realtor magazines that look great.  I use Corel Draw only because I'm stuborn or stupid as a CAD program would reduce my time.   Creatures of habit I'm afraid.

Oct 13, 2008 12:27 AM
Joseph D. Federico
MVP Realty - Naples, FL
Southwest Florida Homes with Joe Federico

Scott-Such a great idea and a great post, thanks for sharing.

Joe Federico

"Not Your Average Joe"

Oct 13, 2008 01:41 AM