Tips From an Expert
Real estate expert Ellen Kelly walks us through tips on selling , buying , and if that staging budget is really worth it .
Would you consider it a seller ’ s market at the moment ?
We are absolutely in a seller ’ s market right now ! Inventory is low , so anything that comes on the market typically gets multiple offers . I was recently showing a house in the popular Charlotte neighborhood of Madison Park , and there were agents and buyers lined up and down the street waiting to get inside .
What are your thoughts on staging ? How do you know if it ’ s right for you and you ’ ll get the return on your investment ?
Staging really depends on the house . If the house is empty , staging furniture helps people envision the space . I help my clients “ stage ” by walking room to room and deciding on what needs to stay and what should go to storage ( or the give-away pile ).
The best staging is actually clearing clutter . Clean and neat spaces make the best first impression !
I like to give a seller a specific list of things they can do to stage their own home . I also keep some things on hand so I can help with accessorizing .
What are a few simple tips that you think sellers can do that really help seal the deal ?
Cleaning and decluttering really shows . Small fixes before a house goes on the market can go a long way — fresh paint makes a house look and