How long must our home stay in show condition?
Dear Phyllis,
Last year we tried for five months to sell our home, and it never happened. In March, we relisted with a different agent, who suggested a couple of repairs to tweak the home. We took her recommendations and had some interior painting done and refreshed the front landscape. And this time we sold quickly.
Our new agent was much more particular, and frankly a little bossy about how the condition of the home should be when buyers were coming. We agreed, but once in escrow, we thought we could slack off a bit, but our agent wouldn’t let up. Anytime the buyer came to the home, it was an ordeal. Although we closed last week, my question is: do you think that the home needed to be in pristine condition each time the buyer returned? Worn Out
Dear Worn Out,
Congratulations on the successful sale of your home. Each home seller has unique real estate goals. Most wish to sell their home quickly at the highest price, with the least amount of inconvenience. When I meet with clients, I try to prioritize these goals.
For those who desire a quick sale at the highest possible price, there will likely be some minor changes and/or repairs made. There will also be the inconvenience of having the home in show condition for all showings. (This is not to say that you shouldn’t be provided ample notice).
Closing escrow is becoming more complex due to increased lender scrutiny and the occasional appraisal issue. Other times, buyers may become so exhausted by the lender’s nonstop demand for additional paperwork that they border on the edge of giving up.
I agree with your real estate agent. During the course of escrow, anytime the buyer comes to your home, it should be in show condition. Neither you nor your Realtor know the buyer’s mindset. The buyer may feel anxious, react to negative news about the economy, or worry that they are taking on too much financially. Each time the buyer returns to your home, you and your agent should reinforce their decision to purchase. Everyone knows that dirty dishes in the sink and unmade beds do not appeal to buyers. Your agent gave you excellent guidance, and it would have been a shame to get so close to closing only to risk losing the deal and having to start over.
