Homes are selling but they are not selling for as high a price nor are they selling as quickly. Does that sound familiar in your area? 
As a REALTOR/Staging Specialist home stager with Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes, I know at least a partial solution to the problem. In order for your home to sell better and faster than those of the competitions', it needs to be properly presented and be priced competitively, from the start. A home that shows well both outside and inside is going to get offers. When prospective buyers make an emotional connection with the home - they want it!
I keep hearing from Realtors "home staging - we do that". Then I look at their MLS photos. Home staging is more than cleaning and decluttering (although a lot of the photos were also missing that element). Color, traffic flow, highlighting focal elements, curb appeal, up grades that pay back - are those being addressed? Do you understand what they are and how they come into play for the appeal of a home? If this is not your thing - then have your homeowners hire a stager. Even a consultation and subsequent following the plan - will make a major difference for a small investment.
Price is crucial but is not the only element. Marketing - yes by all means - and that is so much more than sticking a sign in the yard and listing with a multiple listing service.
The above listing was on the market for 4 days. It is only a 2 bedroom. 2 3/4 bath home. Not your typical 3 bedroom. 2 bath. They walked in and fell in love. It is ready to move into, clean, freshly painted, all repairs done - no problems. Every room staged and looking good!
Kathleen Lordbock
Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes
Re$ale Desing & Home Staging
licensed to sell in MN
218-829-4664
resaledesign@gmail.com
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Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes Brainerd/Baxter, Minnesota ~The staging and selling team~ MN license # 40142464
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Kathleen, sounds just like my area. But I do know areas, small pockets where things are moving better.
Kathleen, it's interesting that's what you're hearing that from agent...about staging it themselves. I finally asked the question at the last MLS/caravan meeting. "Who's staging their listings?". Not one hand went up, because I now offer my items for rent without me. Maybe it's because they don't want ME looking at their photos and trying to figure out just what staging means to them...yes I do that frequently and it's just frustrating. Sounds like we're experiencing the same nonsense.
I have to admit, like Ginger, I do check MLS listings to see what agent's listings look like, Around here, there are very few that I would give my star of approval to.
Kathleen, Good point. I know Realtors believe in Home Staging but many of those MLS photos actually frighten me....I wouldn't even want to see it. If they want to sell it, they need to stage it.
Kathleen,
You are so right, you have to be the best product for the best price. Just like your photo of the Staged Home, it makes the buyer connect and see themselves living there. Clean, warm and inviting. Great job!!!