Selling a Lifestyle, Not a House

When it comes to buying a house or selling a home, we always stress the importance of exploring the lifestyle that exists in your surrounding communities. Not the makeup of the people, as there are endearing qualities in all communities, but rather the amenities that exist in, and out of, the home.

As simple as it sounds, it really takes sound education for both buyers and sellers, alike. For sellers, whether you have chosen to undertake the process on your own or through a professional, it is creating the feeling of 'what will it be like if we move into this home'.

Our company works with professional 'stagers', if necessary, but most of our sales associates are extremely well versed when it comes to what is, and is not, important. The feeling of 'coming home' starts with the small things; it's the time of year to buy or create a pot of flowers for your front porch. A small investement but one that makes a major impact on every buyer just getting ready to enter your home. The feeling is one that if you tenderly pay attention to the porch, you must have a feeling of pride throughout the interior.

Having the tables in both the dining room and the kitchen set with nice dishes gives previewing buyers the feeling of the family gathering around for end of the day conversation. Families are made up of all shapes and sizes (thankfully) so keep it general, but inviting.

A nice throw over the edge of the bed with a tea tray table filled with a book, empty coffee cup and a candle leads potential buyers to breathe in the feeling of comfort and respite. Fluffy towels on display in the bathroom, candles around the bathtub (unlit, of course) and a basket of books near the water closet touch the nerve of escaping to a long, warm bath....perfect image to convey for tired and eager buyers.

Rearranging your rooms when putting your home on the market is always a good idea if the flow that worked so well for your utilization no longer appeals to buyers needing a more open feeling. We have actually gone into homes and suggested removing some of the furniture - (no, not permanently....you need it for your next home!) to create a more open feeling of space. Houses that might have taken a little longer to sell because of the 'where am I going to put everything' feeling now move quickly because of the ability of buyers to visualize their personal effects in your home. It is difficult for most buyers to 'undo and then redo' in their thought process so take the time on the 'undoing' part!

Recently, we have been working with an architect who comes along for a visit and helps us with the creativity we are trying take advantage of to best sell your home or give the buyers the ability to once again,'visualize' what 'home' will feel like. This is your home.....the memories that were created there will go with you and now your task is to pave the way for a smooth transition for the next owner in creating their own memories. It all starts with a lifestyle, past, present and future.

The process of selling is complicated enough and objective input from a professional for a quick, complementary consultation can assist you in more ways than you can imagine. Take notes, jot down suggestions and when, or if, you decide to sell, you will hit the ground running.