When buyers are shopping for a home they typically move through three steps and every seller needs to understand what they are.

First they make a careful list of their priorities. Price, location, schools, number of bedrooms, etc. They probably will become preapproved for a mortgage. 80% will shop the internet before hitting the streets or making an appointment.

Then- they shop. They stick to their priority list- until- they see that house--THE ONE. Something attracts them. First they see the perfectly manicured shrubs. Then a spotless interior. They see something that causes them to have an emotional reaction to the home and they are won over. The list is re-prioritized and it's all over.

I remember having this experiece myself- falling in love with a home that didn't meet my original criteria. I was very surprised to find I didn't have a powder room when we moved in. But that was ok- we loved living there.

It's very important to prepare your home so that it shows to it's full potential. Never underestimate the power of clean and uncluttered. That's number one. Don't leave a to-do list of repairs - buyers overestimate the cost of repairs and will want to deduct even more from the asking price- if they do make an offer.

Consider consulting with a professional home stager who will look at your property with buyer's eyes and help you create those emotional connection points that move the buyer to the third step-- A successful sale!

www.commonwealthstaging.com

Staging really does work! I had Sandy come to my house to help me prepare for a Christmas party last week. I had several positive comments from my friends regarding the arrangement of furniture and the additional assessories I purchased to spruce up the main floor. Sandy had great suggestions for updating my family room, living room and dining room. She even provided a printed report as a reminder of the ten most vital transformations I need to perform to achieve my decorating goals.