By Alejandra Zamora
When it comes to selling your home, one thing seems to have conflicting answers in the real estate world: Should you add personal touches to your space? On the one hand, some experts say that you should show your home as much of a blank slate as possible so buyers can have an easier time picturing their lives in your space, but on the other hand, other insiders say that personal touches add a charming element that almost attracts buyers to the look and feel of your home. So, which is it? The answer seems to depend on your situation, but there is one thing brokers seem to agree on recently that will make a good first impression: seller’s personality.
In a recent article by Mansion Global, real estate experts weighed in on the question of how much a seller’s personality can make or break the deal.
According to the author, “While most agents say they advise sellers to leave personality aside and focus on the price and terms of an offer, some admit to subtly advocating on behalf of buyers that left an impression on them.”
The bottom line? We’re all human, and it’s in our nature to develop an opinion on certain things and experiences based on who is with us. Thus, if you’re in your home while it’s being shown, remember it’s not only your home’s ambiance that can affect your sale, but also your own aura as well.
So, how can you ensure you make a good impression on your potential buyers? Here are some tips:
1. Be personable
This one’s simple but so important. As it’s the topic of the article, your own personality can add a special layer to the home buying process that may encourage a buyer to take action. Be accommodating, don’t be too intense right off the bat, ask the potential buyers about themselves and their needs, and speak on the good things in your home.
2. Describe the lifestyle that you’ve had or can have in your home
Is your home in a family-friendly neighborhood where lots of kids get together every day to play at the nearby park? Does your home have a beautiful backyard and/or pool where you’ve had many get-togethers and barbeques? Or, perhaps your quiet street is perfect for having Sunday morning coffee out on the porch. Whatever visuals you can create for your potential buyers, whether it be the experiences you’ve had yourself or based on features of your home, help them visualize their life here with good anecdotes.
3. Find the right agent
Finding a professional and personable agent is also an important factor to making a good impression. Your agent will do most of the “dirty work” for you-- negotiating prices, relaying inspection information, etc., so you want someone who has ample experiences in the real estate world to do so in the best way possible. What’s more, your agent’s personability can also make or break the house hunting experience, for they can make potential buyers feel welcome and at home with the right touch.
Our agents at The West Team have years of combined, professional experience under our belts, as well as receive reviews based on our knowledge of the industry and our unique personal touch we give to all our clients. Try out one of our agents if you’re selling your home to make the best first impression possible.
Happy house hunting!