​This probate property in the North East had belonged to the late father of Mr  B Trosh, who lives near Southampton, so distance was obviously a factor in him being able to deal with things effectively. Add to that the slow market in that area, plus the view that the flat did not need anything doing to it before it was marketed, and the scene was set for a long, frustrating wait for a buyer. Not to mention an expensive wait because, like all leasehold properties, the monthly service charge still had to be paid – and at around £200 a month for over 3 years, that was over £8,000 down the drain.

However, the market couldn’t have been that bad because, in the 3+ years this property languished on the market, no less than 6 other flats in this retirement block came on the market and sold! So what was being done wrong?

At first, the flat had been marketed with its old fashioned furniture, (always a big turn off for buyers), partly to save having to clear it. After several months, the furniture was removed, but then it was just empty, cheerless and even more unappealing. 

The décor too, was dated, with a patterned carpet fighting patterned wallpaper. After the first year, the carpet was replaced with a new plain one but the busy wallpaper wasn’t changed. And so another year went by until, ​after 3 long years, a mutual friend suggested the owner ask for my help.

Unfortunately I couldn’t travel to the North East, so I couldn't provide the hands on service I prefer to. However I was able to recommend changes that should be made, and the owner then styled it to his taste.

​The busy wallpaper was duly painted over in a neutral shade more pleasing to the eye. The improvement was immediate. And in just two days, the flat was dressed and styled with just enough modern furniture, curtains and accessories to breathe new life into it and give it the welcoming buyer appeal it had been so sorely lacking.

With my Estate Agency experience, I was also able to advise my client on how it should be photographed and re-marketed, and the rest, as they say, is history. It went back on the market at the beginning of November and, on 6th January, an offer was made and accepted, and the property exchanged and completed in just over 6 weeks. 

​Further proof of the benefits of Home Staging – if only I could have been called in sooner!