September 05 2019
There are different opinions as to whether staging a property is worth the money and time involved, but one thing is clear: A home that is clean and uncluttered garners more attention. The result is increased showings leading to offers.
Many concur that staging a home makes a huge difference. How the furniture is placed, and the feeling buyers have when entering a home, can make or break a potential sale. In today's age, the first impression is a lasting impression. Agents know this. So, what happens next? You, as their listing agent, speak to the sellers and may receive numerous objections.
Here are the top 10 objections that most real estate agents face and how to overcome them:
Response: That's great, and you have had many good years in the home. However, the market is constantly changing, and buyers are looking to be wowed now more than ever. Their expectations have changed thanks to all the TV shows such as HGTV, Property Brothers and Fixer Upper. These are just a few of the multitude of shows that are available at the touch of a computer, TV or smartphone. Buyers now want to be AMAZED when they enter your home.
Response: You're choosing to work with me based on my experience and expertise. Time and time again, I have seen the results confirm that this is one of the best investments you can make before putting your home on the market.
The cost of doing nothing and having your home linger on the market far exceeds the price of staging. Staging will be much less expensive than the cost of your first price reduction.
Response: I can understand how your items are precious to you. Some options are getting a POD outside the home for the furnishings that don't get included in the staging or putting them in storage. This makes it easy and efficient for movers when you are ready. It makes the move much less stressful.
Response: One mistaken belief is that staging is only for vacant homes. Every home or condo can be staged. Yes, you can even live in it after it is staged.
Response: The real estate market is constantly changing. Do you want to receive top dollar for your house? Whether it is a buyers' or sellers' market, making your house stand out and shine with staging will have your home sell faster. Statistics have proven this to be true.
Response: Normally what your friends and family love about your home includes you living in it more than the home. Also, friends and family are not looking at your home with the discerning eyes of a buyer. When feedback is requested and received from buyers that visit your property, it may surprise you. Remember, everyone has different tastes and preferences.
Response: I can see there was a lot of thought put into it. One question: how many years ago was that? 30 years is a long time. Taste and decorating styles change frequently, the same as fashion. Don't wait for the buyer who has the same taste as you. Everyone is unique. Staging is timely.
Response: Yes, your view is gorgeous. Without staging, buyers may offer you less for your home because they are adding up the costs of having to change everything. Staging can make that positive difference for you and put more money in your pocket.
Response: Unless you want to receive a price well below market value, buyers may not be able to see beyond the obvious. Even buyers who normally say they can, when they enter the home, you can see the look on their faces. They normally never see beyond it unless they are an investor.
Response: There is an initial 'wow' period when buyers like to see the new listings that just came on the market. If your home does not fit their criteria, then it may be passed up for another opportunity. When the time comes and you are truly ready to sell, a good agent and buyer will see that your home was previously put on the market and wonder why it did not sell. Unless you are in a strong sellers' market, this may not be a good option for you. Don't just put your toe in the water. When you are ready to sell, put in your whole foot.
There are dozens of more reasons sellers may be reluctant to agree to staging. The top reason to stage is that preparing the home for sale is vital to getting your sellers' top price in the shortest amount of time.
To further support staging, here are some key statistics from The National Association of Realtors' profile on home staging:
To view the original article, visit the Form Simplicity blog.