Staging Real Estate, who us?

Here again, GMA (Good Morning America) is talking about real estate. This time the sky wasn't falling. They were out to tell the world our trade secrets. What it comes down to is that the we secretly stage the properties to make them sell! Of course we do, part our job is to make ETHICAL suggestions to make your property as attractive to buyers as possible. You see there are real estate agents that don't subscribe to a strict of code of ethics as REALTORS® and may not be ethically in their suggestions to the home owners. By Maryland law, if there is a problem with the house..You have to disclose the fact. Anyways, back on topic...Yes we make suggestions to make the house more appealing to the buyer. Digitally repairing pictures has gone wild in today's technology. Don't believe me, look at your "Glamour Shots" photo...YOU LOOK GREAT (is that you?) Some REALTORS® use that same concept to enhance photos. Which one looks more attractive below?


The home owner had a grass patch down at the time of the photo. This is not hiding a problem. It is only making it more attractive for online viewing. This yard does look very similarar to the picture on the right now. GMA also said that agents digitally insert furniture into empty rooms. Now, that is a great idea. I don't know about hiding the view out the window, like they said. If there is an ugly building outside the window, but the picture shows bright fluffy clouds. That's a little deceiving. As most disclaimers on MLS sites say...Information deemed accurate but not warranted. You must verify all information yourself. (or something to that affect)


And yes, when we have the chance, we stage the showings. If possible, we try to show ones that are not as attractive early in the trip and put the more appealing ones closer to the end and then end with a dud. Don't take this the wrong way. If you are working with a good agent, the agent will know what you are looking for in a home. Afterall he/she has been in the car with you for sometime, he/she will be able to pick up on your needs and wants. This process only helps you, the buyer, make a decision. In today's market, you can see a lot of houses before you find the one you like. Good agents, are out looking at houses all the time, whether virtually on-line or physically in the house. Buyers can be awe struck by some of the cosmetics of the house and the excitement of the process. We try to match them up with all of their needs. Ultimately the buyer is still in charge and makes the final decision.

GMA mentioned about zillow.com. This is the latest buzz in the virtual world. My comment is this..Look at the pictures above..Don't always believe what you see. Ask your agent to pull comparable homes for you. They will be so much more accurate. Now the secrets are out... we try to make homes sell.

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