Real Estate Perspectives
December 11, 2015 | Suzanne Powers

First Impressions - Milwaukee Real Estate

First Impressions. They are so important.

First Impressions - Milwaukee Real Estate

So how does that relate to real estate? The selling of your home is all about LOVE...and first impressions for the buyer. This is the place where their dreams will come true, where they will start a family, where they will retire, etc.

Are we selling houses? Well yes we are, but more importantly and I have always said this... we are brokering dreams. You can't sell houses and be #1 ...you have broker experiences that enhance people's lives. The buyer is looking to fulfill their dreams and they are coming to see your home. Your buyer's experience in your home is about their hope for the future. So, how does your home experience look? Is it warm and inviting? Have you removed the bold paint colors and family photos so your buyer's experience increases the likelihood of an offer? This is the GOAL when you are selling your home. You have to create a buyer experience that enhances their hopes and dreams, and the first seven seconds are crucial!

So how do we do enhance the buyer's impression? Start with an honest assessment of your home. I frequently recommend a pre-home inspection to all would be sellers. Let's find out what needs to be fixed. Then let's fix it. Next, and probably the most important item, paint colors. This is the seven second rule. Neutral paint colors are very important in today's market place. Do not believe for one minute that you do not have to prepare your home for sale. Preparing a house can take years and is absolutely necessary to get top dollar. So here is an inside scoop on the best wall color for your home. Remember to use flat paint color on walls. Here you go:

  • Ordinary Grey - Sherman Williams
  • Star - Sherwin Williams ( Powers Conference Room Below )
  • Kilm Beige - Sherwin Williams ( Powers Lobby Photo Above )
  • Grey Scheme from Restoration Hardware
  • Flax - Dark Brown - Restoration Hardware
  • Sand Beach - Sherwin Williams

The above paint colors are just a few of the most popular paint colors we recommend. I am asked all the time what paint colors to use and the list above are my go to colors for almost any home. It is important to neutralize the entire home. So frequently, and just last week, I had a seller say to me it is just paint and a buyer can see beyond that...well, no they cannot.

Buyers do not like your canary yellow living room and navy blue bedroom, and once you go out on the market with photos everywhere in the ether with 123 Main Street, you cannot get it back. There is your first impression for your buyer and it will cost you plenty of $$$ at closing. For sellers in the most desirable areas this is as true as it is in less desirable areas. Just because you live in a "hot" community does not mean the rules do not apply. Look through the latest home magazines like Traditional Home and Better Homes and Gardens to get a flavor of what is trending in interiors. Call your Realtor at least 6 months in advance of listing your home to make sure you are on track.

Experience a seamless home selling and buying process with Powers Realty, Milwaukee’s trusted local experts for over 2 decades. Our tailored approach ensures optimal results. Contact me today to discuss your home needs.

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