Ask a Stager: A guide to helping seniors sell their home

This guide article in Real Estate Magazine discusses the crucial challenges seniors face when selling their homes, emphasizing the need for empathy and patience from real estate agents. We think it’s an important piece to highlight for all our members actively brokering sales as many elders are aging out of their properties into retirement communities.

It highlights that for seniors, a home holds emotional value, being tied to memories and experiences. As agents, it’s crucial to approach this process with sensitivity, listening to their concerns and not rushing them.

One key point is to explain how the home selling process has changed over time, as many seniors have not sold a house in decades. By drawing attention to new expectations like online listings and staging, agents can help seniors see these changes as beneficial for maximizing their home’s appeal and market value.

Additionally, the process of decluttering can be overwhelming for seniors, who may have accumulated many belongings. Agents should suggest having discussions with loved ones about what items to keep, setting small decluttering goals, and possibly recommending professional downsizing services to alleviate stress.

Agents are also encouraged to recommend minor repairs and updates to improve a property’s value. This can include small maintenance fixes or simple aesthetic updates, which can be especially important for seniors living on fixed incomes. It’s advised to explore creative funding solutions for these improvements.

Professional staging can significantly affect how quickly a home sells and at what price. Agents should educate seniors about the benefits of staging as creating an inviting atmosphere that appeals to potential buyers while ensuring that it respects the home’s charm.

Another challenge for seniors is the inconvenience of showings. Agents should coordinate showings at convenient times and provide checklists to help seniors prepare their homes. It’s vital to limit disruptions, so the process feels more manageable.

Understanding the current market is important as well. Seniors may have outdated expectations for their property value, so offering clear market analysis will help set realistic selling expectations and timelines.

Lastly, agents should continue support after the sale by connecting seniors with moving services and checking in on their transition to new living situations. Ongoing support fosters trust and strengthens relationships, potentially leading to referrals from family and friends.

Overall, the article emphasizes that selling a home for seniors is about more than logistics, it’s about guiding them compassionately through an important life change. By nurturing trust and providing tailored resources, realtors can create a positive experience during this transition.

Read the full guide: Nina Doiron, Real Estate Magazine