Selling a house yourself is a daunting task. Some people think in a Sellers’ Market all they need to do is post it on the For Sale by Owner (FSBO) local site, put a “For Sale” sign in the yard, and wait for the phone calls. This method may work from time-to-time depending upon three things: location, price, and condition.
You cannot change the location, but you can change the price and condition. How do you know what the asking price should be? Do you have access to the various Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) tools that realtors have? If you want top dollar, the condition should look top-dollar worthy.
One Sunday, I decided to peruse the local FSBO website to see which properties had been “on the market” longer than 30 days. I looked at their photo gallery to assess the condition. As a Certified home stager as well as a licensed WI Realtor, I can usually enhance a property so it shows well online. After all, if a property doesn’t show well online, the chance of “snagging” a showing decreases—unless the price is way below market value.
After setting up a text campaign for 10 FSBO properties, I received a response asking about my services. When I told him his asking price was higher than the comparables, he said other realtors have told him that. But, instead of recommending a lower price, I suggested enhancing the property to justify the higher price.
I facilitated a full cleaning, contracted with a reasonable painter, weeded the yard, washed windows, and staged the property. He poured a new concrete garage floor, driveway, front door walkway and stoop. My staging services are included with all my listings, whether vacant or occupied.
I highly recommend hiring a professional photographer. Their artistic eye and specialized camera lens make all the difference.
Living Room Before/After
Kitchen Before/After
After a successful Open House where we all practiced safe COVID procedures, the feedback was favorable. This little bungalow is waiting for just the right person—it shouldn’t be too much longer.
Contact Gina Newell at Premiere Stagers & Realty for your next property. 608-345-9396.