First impressions play key role in real estate sale

Dian Hymer has an article on Inman News today about whether you should consider selling your house vacant or staged.

"...selling a vacant home could result in a lower net return. The main reason for this is that first impressions play a big part in selling homes. When buyers walk into a home that looks bright, inviting and comfortable, they feel good. When most buyers walk into a vacant home, they feel that something is missing."

Case in point, "a listing in the Oakland Hills (Calif.) was put on the market last fall. It had a great view, but was vacant. It did not sell after three months on the market during a time when all well-priced listings in the area were selling. The listing was temporarily withdrawn from the market and staged with rental furniture and accessories. It was put back on the market at the same price and sold right away."

Personally, I think that proper preparation is the key to a successful transaction. It doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg to make a house look fantastic. Cleaning up is the biggest key, but painting, staging, and floor refinishing are almost always money well-spent.