Selling a House

7 parent questions ▼
Archived Q&A and reviews ▼

Parent Q&A

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  • Quickest way to sell home

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    Sep 8, 2022

    We had a family emergency and need to relocate so we need to sell our home asap. What’s the fastest way to do this? We don’t really have the time or money to get it market ready. I would prefer a private sale to save money on using a realtor. However, I understand that realtors often sell at a higher price which we could use in our situation. Our home is in good condition and needs the typical cosmetic improvements, i.e new interior paint, refinished wood floors, etc. Could probably get more if we updated kitchen and bathrooms, but again no time or money to do this. Any advice would be appreciated especially if you’ve been in this situation or know someone who has. Our home is in Oakland, Glenview neighborhood 3bd/2.5ba.

    Sep 8, 2022

    I highly recommend you speak to a real estate professional who can guide you on the pros and cons.  How quickly do you need to relocate and to where?  Do you need to buy a new home wherever you're moving to or will you be renting?  A realtor can help you prioritize which things you should do given the budget and time constraints you have.  We worked with https://www.meganmicco.com/ when we bought our home and she helped us prioritize which projects were necessary vs could be put off.

    Sep 14, 2022

    I'm so sorry about your family emergency. We live in Glenview as well - have you posted this to Glenfriends? You might get some ideas from there too. Best of luck!

    Sep 16, 2022

  • Cross-country home buying/selling

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    Oct 5, 2021

    Anyone have experience selling a house in CA and buying a house across the country (bonus points for doing this during covid)? We’re trying to move back to the East Coast within the next year, but feel overwhelmed. We have 3 main questions: 1) Did you find a real estate agent and mortgage broker in your target community first? How did you negotiate open houses/bids while living across the country? 2) If you sold your house and used the proceeds to buy across the country, where did you live in the interim? It would be easier if we sold first, then rented in the new community, but moving 2x sounds rough on the kids, and we’re worried prices will continue to climb. 3) If you bought a new house before selling your existing one, what financing method did you use? A 2nd mortgage, or borrow against a 401(k), or HELOC, or…? Would love hearing how others have managed a cross-country move and lived to tell the tale.

    Oct 5, 2021

    We are in the same situation. We are planning to move to my husband's home town, where his family still lives. We have a realtor and mortgage broker in our target community. We initially planned to move while our house is on the market, stay with my in laws until we can either find a rental or a home to purchase once our home here sells. After thinking about it, we wanted to be set up to move quickly should a desirable home come on market and buy the new home before selling our current home. We will likely have a virtual walk through with our realtor and have one of us fly out to see the property as soon as possible before making an offer. Making an offer sight unseen, is a bit terrifying to me! If that is the case, we will take out a second mortgage and then put our home on the market. I acknowledge we are in a very fortunate financial place and the community where we are moving is far more affordable than the bay area.  Best of luck to you! This is definitely a tough situation.

    Oct 6, 2021

    We moved from Boston to Berkeley last january and in doing so sold out condo in Boston.  We rent here but mostly we wanted to get a sense of the different neighborhoods before committing to buying.  Are you moving to an area you are familiar with or do you have any friends/family in the area.  Always nice to get recommendations that way vs the internet.  

    1) You should be able to find who the top agents/teams are in the region you're looking at, some will be the top in terms of sales volume vs total dollars sold.  The same real estate agent should be able to help you negotiate the contract/offer you put in on any property on the east coast you want to buy.  I don't know the technical term for it but there is a contingency clause that basically says the offer is contingent on selling your house first.

    2) Whatever real estate agent you choose on the east coast should be able to give you three recommendations for lenders they've worked with in the past.  You can certainly find your own lender but it should save you time/energy by following the recommendations of the agent.

    3) As far as open houses/bids, I think it's about comfort level for your family.  Lots of stuff can be done virtually but if you can afford to fly to the east coast for a weekend and tour a bunch of houses in person, your agent should be able to make offers for you without you having to be on the east coast.

    Good luck!

    Oct 6, 2021

    We did this (Boston and back to SF) Rented till had sold in SF and vice versa. Our kids were small and it was tough. While renting we drove around at weekends to first look at open houses but they were not what we were looking for (all 'colonial' or shingled etc with small windows and odd shapes whereas we wanted tons of light and glass,  coming from sunny SF (move back was easier!!). Then found a few communities of mid moderns and found a house we liked while just driving around. Looked up owner on assessors office website, found an email for them, they luckily wanted to sell (they were overseas and had rented it) and we negotiated directly and used a real estate lawyer to do all the checks and paperwork. PM me if you want more info. Good luck. 

    Oct 6, 2021

    So my mother just did this and used Zillow. They sold her home and helped purchase the new home. They handled everything from start to finish including the mortgage, helped with movers. It was so easy for her to do this so I would suggest seeing what they offer. Less headaches but not sure about how they handle bidding wars and all.

    Oct 6, 2021

    Hi this is to only answer a tiny aspect of your question - where to stay in the interim. We've had to travel a lot as a family staying in places for weeks to months.

    One place to consider is a suites hotel. We've often rented a 2-bedroom in a Marriott Towneplace Suites but there are other brands and have loved it. Now it may not work if you are trying to establish residency in a committee for school purposes. But we found Airbnbs were pretty dang expensive even in areas you wouldn't think would garner much interest. And they often do not have large chunks of time open so it's hard almost impossible to book 2 full months. We've also booked through executive housing services and have found some as cheap as Airbnbs but that's not a given, you just have to ask but I would definitely recommend contacting a few of them.

    The Towneplace Suites included breakfast everyday, snacks throughout, many have a tiny swimming pool, 2x week maid service so they change the beds etc you don't, plus your utilities included, a small gym, and a laundry on every floor. We always loved it, the whole family was happy. Towneplace doesn't offer a huge spread for breakfast but still kids like it. Not the best quality food but not bad and the kids survive - yogurt, cereal & milk, bagels & cream cheese, boiled eggs, etc. Also cookies, fruit and coffee throughout the day. You have your own full kitchen to cook whatever you want.

    Anyway here is a blog of gal who moved her family with 3 kids into a suites hotel during the months between selling her house and the completion of construction on the new one -  Eden Strong - Living at the Hyatt

    She stayed at a Hyatt (the pool looks better than most of the Towneplace Suites pools which would be a big benefit if staying a few months) and discusses how she determined the cost analysis. Key things would be to call the manager directly to ask for a good deal because it's a long stay. Even if you don't know how long at first, you can negotiate for the lower stay possibility. Also if you stay longer than 30 days you establish residency (not sure if a school district would see it that way but worth a check) and so that eliminates your taxes which also saves. You'll earn a lot of points (consider applying for the chain credit card to maximize). Using a hotel will give you more flexibility for that interim part than an Airbnb.  

    Oct 7, 2021

    I did this in the fall of 2018 - moved from Alameda to Bozeman, Montana and sold my house in Alameda and used the proceeds to buy in Bozeman.  With good realtors and good timing, it is doable.  Please contact me if you want to discuss.  - Jody

    Oct 12, 2021

  • Tips on Selling our Home

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    Sep 17, 2021

    Hello! I’m thinking about selling my home and would like tips on the best way to do this to save time, money, and get the best price. I’ve never been through this process so I’d appreciate steps on how to do this in today’s market specifically in Oakland as well as costs involved with selling. 

    Do I hire a real estate agent? If so, recommendations on anyone familiar with selling in Glenview? Or should I sell it myself and list it on Zillow or Redfin? Should I stage it and does it make a difference? Should we paint the interior and exterior? Exterior looks fine, but can use touch ups. Interior has some walls that have accent colors we painted 8 years ago.

    How about taxes? How much can I expect to pay? Thanks in advance!

    Sep 17, 2021

    Definitely talk with a real estate agent if you want to sell for the most money. I strongly recommend that you talk to Jennifer Lucas https://www.compass.com/agents/jennifer-lucas/

    She was our agent. I have since recommended her to several friends in Oakland as well as Lamorinda, Pleasant Hill, WC. She will be able to get you the top dollar. Her husband is a contractor, so she can take care of fixing up the place fast. She also does house flipping and has done construction herself with her family. It’s awesome watching her video with her and her teenage kids with sledgehammers. She has older kids as well as a little baby, so she really gets family needs. Most of all, she will recommend how to fix up the house for you to get the best bag for buck. If you will need to buy, she uses the same skills to guide you and point out what is a quick and cheap fix v what will cost a lot of time and money. 

    Sep 18, 2021

    I recommend Redfin, or another "alternative" broker. The 5% standard commission, paid by the seller, is excessive in my opinion. Redfin will give you a significant discount on that commission. Redfin agents are very skilled and knowledgeable. I do think it's probably worth it to use at least a Redfin agent, rather than listing it yourself. For sale by owners aren't always greeted warmly by the market.

    Your questions on preparation probably require knowledge of your home, so ask your agent for advice. Generally, staging and minor repairs are absolutely worth it. (With Redfin, you can hire the stager & repair contractors yourself and pay an even lower fee to Redfin, saved me a lot of money. Or they have a more full service option.)

    Taxes can be very complicated. You should consult with a tax preparer of some kind.

    Sep 22, 2021

    We just sold our house in Maxwell Park - I'm pretty sure that our house broke the record for the area for price per square foot when we sold. I highly recommend that you interview several agents. We used Sheri Madden with Red Oak. She is phenomenal and gets the highest dollar for the houses she sells. Agents will help you plan for all of the things you are talking about and can let you know about fees and taxes.

    In regard to staging, we went with a mid-range stager. They are pretty hip and geared for the clientelle that is buying in Maxwell Park these days. It cost us $6,000 for our 1K sq ft house and tiny shed/office. It was worth it.

    Sep 22, 2021

    You are going to get a TON of realtors replying to you for this post! haha Not to mention, lots of folks who've been in your shoes. I have lots of ideas, but the gist is: hire an agent. YES, stage your home.

    ~Mailisha

    Sep 22, 2021

    Some thoughts on your prospective home sale.

    First, I strongly second that you use a real estate agent for the easiest and better price route.  An agent will prep your house for sale as needed and make recommendations for updates (often an agent has an inexpensive contractor, handyman, painter, etc.);  provide staging (you can negotiate who pays for it); market the house with good website photos, video & description; and, maximum exposure on the MLS and among other realtors.

    In the current market, agents usually take a 2.5% commission (instead of the former 3%),  Totally worth it.  Strong preference for a real estate agent who knows your area or at least nearby neighborhoods in the Oakland hills, off of 24.  It makes a difference if Glenview is in their territory.

    About home sale taxes (this is not professional advice):  Generally, each owner on title (you, or you & partner) is entitled to a $250,000 exclusion from tax for the sale of your home.  This means that the first $250,000 of your profit is not taxable.  You have to have lived for 2 of the last 5 years in your house to qualify, which it seems you have.  You'd also want to review the IRS guidelines about how to add to your cost basis (for examples, you can add costs of the sale, and improvements you made to your home). Even better, get an accountant for that tax return.  Finally, whatever profit you have left after these calculations and after the $250,000 per person exception, is taxed at a long term capital gains rate. Currently the long term capital gains rate is $15% for most, increased to 20% if you earn more than $441,000/year.  You can find out about the $250,000 home sale exclusion and about the long term capital gains rate by googling those terms, but you'll probably want detailed advice come tax time.

    -Friendly tips from two recent home sellers in the family

    Sep 22, 2021

    Ok here's a shot in the dark-if you'd like to sell and forego the hassle of listing, staging, and open houses my husband and I have been in the market looking to buy house. We're actually in Glenview and would love to stay in this neighborhood and raise our baby here. Feel free to message me if you want to talk about it and explore this topic.

    Sep 24, 2021

  • Donating/gifting a house to relocate to another site?

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    Feb 19, 2021

    Inspired by an SF Chronicle article from 2/19/2021 about a Victorian house being moved to another site within San Francisco, I wanted to post a question here if anyone has knowledge as to whether there exists a market for homes to be moved in the East Bay, or how to get in touch with interested parties or specialty brokers.

    We have a single-family home in North Berkeley, single story, 1350 sqft, built in 1908, not historic as far as we know, but constructed from old-growth Redwood and in good shape. We're looking to construct a new home on the site (remodeling is not feasible given our new plans) and would love to gift or donate the old house to a person or organization that could use and enjoy it, if possible.

    Feb 19, 2021

    I can ask around (if you don't mind anonymous sharing of your post). My gut reaction is you're unlikely to find a taker. It's too small.

    Feb 24, 2021

    San Francisco Community Land Trust
    https://sfclt.org

    OR

    https://sogoreate-landtrust.org

    The Sogorea Te Land Trust

    We are founded on stolen land and Indigenous people are still here.

    If you have access to land and wealth, consider your place in the lineage of this theft and how you might contribute to its healing, how you might reimagine your relationship to the land you are on.

    From creating a cultural easement for gathering rights, offering access to a space or writing us into your will or nonprofits dissolution documents, we are dreaming with our supporters to build many paths of radical reciprocity that are a part of rematriation and land return.

    Feb 24, 2021

    That was a great story and fun to watch, but I'm not sure if you caught the part of the story that explained the cost, $400,000, to move the house less than a mile. 

    What you are proposing is certainly kind, but not really economically feasible for most people or organizations.

    It's a shame you can't incorporate the existing house into your plan - we remodeled our house, built in 1870, and half of the house is still the original. The redwood is in beautiful shape and in many ways feels much more solid than the new construction. Food for thought.

    Feb 24, 2021

  • Hate our house. Should we move?

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    Feb 3, 2021

    We are hoping to hear wisdom from community.

    We have never liked our house. The minute we bought the house, we had a huge buyer’s remorse. The things we dislike are difficult or impossible to change — size and shape of the lot, the internal layout, direction of the house, surrounding buildings, the particular street where the house is, easement, etc. We made a mistake... a terribly expensive mistake.

    We have been here for 3.5 years, and we really tried to like the house. We added a bathroom and remodeled kitchen. We landscaped, painted, and decorated. I still dislike the house. It needs a bit more space and light and I really want a house that faces Southeast and not northwest. 

    I would love to move from Oakland to Pleasant Hill or Concord where we can get a bigger house with trees,  a nice flat yard and a pool at the same price point. Spouse desires the same. 
     

    Even before the pandemic, our family outings and hang-outs were to drive to Walnut Creek or Concord.  

    the problem is kids love this house. They want to stay. We asked them if they wanted to stay even if the new house was twice as big with a big play room, swimming pool, hot tub, and swing set. They say they still want to stay here in this cozy house and close to friends. With the pandemic, we wonder if the familiarity and stability are more important for kids than daily comfort for us adults. 

    Parent in me thinks we should stay here and weather the pandemic to provide as much stability to kids as possible. But, I desire a bigger space and my own office instead of a make shift office in the hallway next to kids bathroom. It would be nice for kids to be able to bike around the house instead of us having to drive kids to a place where they can bike and run around. 

    We feel our neighborhood is too urban, and we thought we were urban people but are learning that we are really suburban people who like the option of being able to get to the city within 30-40 min. like to live in a quiet house with a lot of trees and flat grassy lawn and not next to a bunch of boxy apartment buildings where new people are constantly moving in and out.

    Sometimes I wonder if we stay here long enough, kids will grow up and they will think this house is cool  because it’s in an area that seems popular to young people (lakeshore/grand lake). 

    Feb 3, 2021

    The parent in me is sympathetic to the idea of doing what your kids prefer, but even though I'm pretty mushy about stuff like this I would say follow your and your husband's heart and just move to where you want to be. You don't say how old your kids are, but they will adjust -- and you have given it a real shot to try to stay. For a little context, my third grader is in a new school this year, which has especially sucked for making new friends with remote learning, but they will survive. I think any moving around, at least before middle school years, ends up being no big deal for most kids.

    Feb 3, 2021

    You should move, no doubt about it.  This is about your happiness and mental health!

    The kids will get over it.  They never want to leave what they know.  If you go house hunting with them and they can see the pool/outdoor space/etc for themselves, they will get plenty excited.  Seriously, this is about you and your needs, and they will be happy in the end.

    Feb 3, 2021

    Well, it is definitely "cooler" to live in Lake Shore over Concord or Pleasant Hill! ;) That said, you are the head of your family and your happiness matters. It doesn't sound like you are happy where you are and that may continue to chip away at your well being over time. Factor in your kids preferences but ultimately make the decision that makes the most sense for you and your family long term. You can keep working on your kids to get them more on board. It might help to explore the new neighborhoods with your kids and include them in looking at open houses. They might start warming up to the idea.

    Feb 3, 2021

    I'm not sure how old your kids are but, generally speaking, kids hate change. Ask them if you can throw away that 5 year old toy they haven't touched once in 4 years and they will scream and cry and say they NEED it. Yet, kids are so much more adaptable than even we are. They adjust to new childcare situations and new schools (usually) pretty darn easily.

    For what it's worth, I think happy parents = happy home. They may just not be able to imagine the benefits of suburbia right now but, more than likely, they will adapt and love it. And meanwhile, if you and your husband are much happier, that'll flow down to them too. I think all of us parents have stressed so much about providing stability during this pandemic, but really having joy and happiness is equally or more important. And change can be a really great thing - you just have to reassure them they can still see their friends and the new house will be even better than the cozy one!

    Feb 3, 2021

    I think you should move. It sounds like you are both really unhappy, and the sooner you move the easier it will be for your (younger) kids to make new friends and adjust. 

    Feb 3, 2021

    One thing you haven't mentioned is whether you can afford to move. Every time you buy/sell a house you lose 3-6% of the house's value to realtor costs, plus all the costs of the move, renovations, and repairs. A bigger house in the suburbs might also cost more, and the market is kind of crazy right now with everyone trying get more space. But if you can afford to move--go ahead and move! I have friends who love renovating and flipping houses, and they move every few years. It's expensive but not unusual. You are also not the first one who has faced buyers remorse with their house. You shouldn't base your decision on what your children want. Your children are too young to understand all the factors in this decision, and they are also not the ones spending the money. Kids also love familiarity, so it is completely understandable that they wouldn't want to move. I would stop asking your children if they want to move because it would just frustrate them if you ask for their opinion and then seemingly ignore it by moving. Instead, find the house you really want and make it really exciting for the kids, and work with them if they are sad and miss their old house. That said, the fact that you are posting on this forum and asking your kids to make the decision for you suggests that you are really conflicted about moving. Shop around and see what's out there, and make sure this is something YOU want to do, not something your kids want you to do, before you buy your next house. Good luck!

    Feb 3, 2021

    How old are your kids?  I would humbly suggest that kids have a very narrow view, and is based on what they can see right in front of them, whereas part of our job as parent is to see the bigger picture.  We moved our kids at 7 and 10 halfway around the world (literally).  When we told them we were moving, they cried.  A lot.  I spent many sleepless nights wondering if we were making the right decision - taking them so drastically away from the only home and environment and culture they'd ever know.  The first few months had some really low moments but only a couple that I still remember three years later.  Little people are much more resilient then we usually give them credit for.  And you're only talking about 20 miles - they can still meet their super duper close friends.  I vote move - parents need to be happy too.

    Feb 3, 2021

    Suburban (West Contra Costa) parent to 4.5 and 1.5 here -- we have a bit more space than it sounds like y'all do, both indoors and out, and our starting situation was different (we bought our home intending for it to be our ForeverHomeTM). But in some ways, I still feel like I could have written your post. Over the last year, as plans for our family have evolved, we have come to the conclusion that it's very likely we will "outgrow" our house.

    We've decided to basically wait on thinking seriously about any changes until things have settled down a bit more with the COVID situation. We're self-aware enough to know that it's hard for us to weight "normally" the pros and cons of our neighborhood -- we've got a great community, lots of friends for us and kids within walking distance, and the fact that we haven't played with them AT ALL in months or socialized "normally" in almost a year is definitely skewing our thoughts on the matter. Our working plan right now is to ride things out here for at least another year or so and then assess. FWIW, if we moved, it'd likely be a "big move" (out of the Bay at minimum, at least 50/50 out of state), so things might feel less momentous if we were "just" looking to move to a different part of the Bay.

    Feb 3, 2021

    Hi. You didn't mention how old your kids are, but in general, I would say, "Yes, definitely move!" The kids will be upset at first, but they will adapt and they will probably love having a house with a bigger yard, possibly a pool, ability to bike the neighborhood, etc. We moved from SF to Berkeley 3.5 years ago largely for the same reasons -- bigger house, yard, better weather. Kids were 6 and 8 at the time. The kids didn't want to and said they missed SF at first. But now they love it -- they have more freedom here, more space, a yard. We even got a dog. If you parents think you'll be happier there, then go for it. Your happiness matters to the whole family, and the kids will adjust. (I would be a little more hesitant if the kids were in middle and high school since peer groups are so important at that age, but since you mentioned a play room and swingsets, they are probably not.) Good luck!!!

    Feb 3, 2021

    I grew up in San Francisco, have always lived in urban areas and couldn't imagine that I would like living in suburbia as much as I do now. Oakland was a great place before we had kids. We lived in a small house in Oakland for 10 years, even added an extra room to have some breathing room with 2 small kids but it just never felt right. After years of hesitation, we finally pulled the trigger and moved to walnut creek last year, no regrets. We have a large yard, safe and quiet residential streets where kids can ride their bikes without adult supervision. There are so many open spaces and playgrounds near by. My kids were reluctant to move but they both agree now that they like the new house more than the old house. We do miss our friends back in Oakland but it's not that far to drive for visits.

    Feb 3, 2021

    This seems like a no-brainer to me.  You're the parents, the adults.  You should make the decision, and not base it on the desires of children.  This statement comes with the understanding that yes, children do have a say in family matters, and children like stability and don't necessarily like change, and they don't want to leave what's familiar, and their friends, etc.  BUT, if you and your partner are unhappy with the house and the street and the town, and you can afford to move, you should MOVE!  Go!  Life's too short to live in a house that you've tried so hard to love, but don't!  Your children are probably picking up on your unhappiness, and if you stay unhappy, that will hurt them in the long run!  The kids will adapt.  It may be uncomfortable for a while, but they will find new friends, and learn to love their new town.  You obviously care about what your kids think, and you will find a new home that works for everyone.  GO!  Find happiness!  

    Feb 4, 2021

    If the kids are still in elementary school, I'd say go for it. If they are in middle or high school, suck it up for a few more years and once they graduate high school go where you want.

    Feb 4, 2021

  • Maximizing capital gains tax exclusion on sale of my house

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    Sep 21, 2020

    I am considering selling my house and downsizing to a rental or perhaps buying something else. My house was purchased in 1992, and has appreciated a great deal. I met with a CPA and I may owe upwards of $200k in taxes when I sell. I'm single and bought out my ex's equity 5 years ago. I was hoping that the fair market value that we agreed on in our mediation would be my basis, but alas, I was mistaken. As a single person, I can exclude $250k from the proceeds from tax. My CPA estimated a taxable gain of $683k. I can't be the only person in the Bay Area to face this. I read on a blog a potential tactic of making my adult son a part owner in order to exclude another $250k. I need this money for my retirement. I'd love to hear from anyone else who's gone through something like this. If you used a tax attorney or a real estate attorney to advise you, I'd love a referral!

    Sep 21, 2020

    I have EXACTLY the same problem. And it's unfair since people who move a lot can use the $250K deduction multiple times. There should not be a penalty of hundreds of thousands of dollars just because you stayed in one house and didn't move. There should be a lifetime gains exclusion or ability for seniors to exclude more on a one-time basis. This situation contributes to our housing shortage too, since it prevents people from downsizing. They'd rather die poor and alone in these huge houses than pay capital gains so their heirs can inherit the full value. Looking forward to any answers.

    Sep 23, 2020

    If you sell, yes you will have to pay capital gains tax. Also a transfer tax. And the real estate agent's fee. Plus the cost to fix up the house and move into a hotel room while it is being sold. So you will lose a percentage in the sale. There are other ways to get money for your retirement out of the house. You could rent out a room or two. A little hard during a pandemic, but doable. Or you could get a reverse mortgage. You also may want to look into installment sales and monetized installment sales. I think you could also marry someone and get $500,000 exclusion. I hope you find a way to retire comfortably. 

    Sep 25, 2020

    Several of my neighbors have created an in-law unit in their houses, usually in the basement, and live in it while renting out the remainder of the house. They avoid paying the capital gains tax, retain their very low property tax, stay in the same community, and best of all create an income stream for their retirement years, while living virtually rent free.

    Oct 6, 2020

  • Prep house for sale

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    Nov 6, 2019

    I had a relative pass away with his main asset being his house in San Francisco. We plan to sell the house per his will. We've gone through the house to clear it of any personal effects so now all that is left is old furniture, clothing and other random items. Is there a service that can help us dispose/sell/donate these items? Can a real estate agent also help with this as part of their services in getting the house ready to sell? 

    Nov 6, 2019

    Yes, the realtor should be able to help.  Not by their own labor, but by hiring people (with you paying most likely) or giving you the names of people.  They make a lot in commisions.  At least, we gave our realtor the keys to the house and moved out, and she got in painters and rug layers and other minor repairs done.  Mostly we had to pay the bills for the work done.

    Nov 14, 2019

Archived Q&A and Reviews

How to make a crowded house look more appealing

Oct 2001

We are going to be selling our house and looking for a bigger one. I would love some advice from those who have sold houses before as to how to deal with making the house look more appealing for sale. I have read articles about staging a home - I'm not looking for how to stage our home per se. I'm really asking for something more basic about logistics: our house is very crowded in all the rooms except my daughter's. We have no place to put any of the stuff as the garage is already full (see why we're moving?!?!!). Logistically speaking, how does all of this happen? I have gone to many open houses. The houses are never cluttered and I always wonder where all their stuff is (though of course, they could just be neat). Do you have to get move the stuff just for a broker's open house and then once more for a regular folks' open house or do you have to get rid of the stuff longer term? The only reason our place is cluttered is as our daughter got older, her stuff got bigger. And we just all have too much stuff. While we can work on getting rid of stuff we don't need, most of this stuff is stuff we need, but simply don't have a good place for. Thanks in advance - we have never been in the position before, obviously. This is our first home.

In reply to the person selling their home. As someone who has just sold our home, our advise to you regarding clutter is just to bite the bullet and rent a storage space to store it in until you move. Our realtor advised us not to stage the house but just to remove about half of our belongings. It really made a difference. We saw many open houses that looked staged, and it really just seems so artificial to us...like you're living at Williams Sonoma or something. Our first open house was supposed to be the Sunday after 9/11. We put it off a week to assess the impact of the attacks on the real estate market. We had 2 successive open houses the following 2 Sundays and had several offers the next Tuesday to choose from and accepted one $30K over the asking price! I'm convinced our house was so well received due in large part because we removed half of the clutter that normally we don't think twice about. My wife and I are not normally super neat and with 2 small children, it's hard to keep toys and such off the floors and clutter off the counters and shelves, but we did it. We had a full basement to store most of our stuff in, but would have rented a space if we had to. Believe me, you'll more than recoup the cost of the rental and you'll get a head start on packing. A cluttered house will not show well. By the way, any good realtor worth his/her salt will advise you to do the same. Ours, Nacio Brown at Templeton Leverette (our old house at 934 Delaware is featured on his website, www.myberkeleyhome.com ) gave us many good recommendations that resulted in a quick sale for substantially more than the asking price directly following the worst terrorist attack in our nation's history. We couldn't have asked for better. Good luck. -Rob

I think it would be worth it for you to pack up a lot of stuff and put it in storage (away from the house) while you show the house, even if you don't have it staged. It seems like everyone stages their home these days, and I've heard that cosmetic details like newly done floors, having home painted, and putting in nice plantings in the yard, can make a big difference in the amount of money you can get for a house. A friend of mine sold their house about a year ago without a realtor. They had the windows cleaned professionally also. It made a big difference in how the house looked. -Andrea

A good agent should be able to advise you on what needs to be done to prepare your house for sale in this market. A house that is clutter free, staged, freshly painted (if needed) and of course priced appropriately will attract more buyers and sell more quickly than one that is not. If you don't have storage space in your garage/basement then renting storage space would be the best option. It takes a lot of work to put a house on the market, you want it to look as attractive as possible to prospective buyers so that it will sell quickly. The longer it stays on the market the more likely it is that any offer will be below your asking price. -Mary