(That No One Warned Me About!)
Being a Realtor® and home stager is like living inside an HGTV show—only with more caffeine, fewer cameras, and a lot of unexpected twists! Here are the top 10 lessons I’ve picked up from helping clients turn houses into dream homes and making big moves. Some of these might surprise you (and a few are pretty funny).
1. First Impressions Are Like a Blind Date
Within seconds, potential buyers are either in love or ready to move on. Yep, that fast! Making a house feel like a “YES!” from the moment the door opens is my specialty. Think fresh flowers, a hint of welcoming scent, and absolutely no clutter. It’s a little romance in real estate.
2. Listening is My Secret Superpower (Sorry, Spidey Senses)
Who knew that the best tool isn’t a magic staging wand but the simple act of listening? Clients have so many hopes, dreams, and fears tied to their move, and when I listen closely, I get all the details that help me make the right moves, for the best advice and a smoother journey.
3. Your House Needs to Look Amazing Online Too (Hello, Digital First Impressions!)
Just like a profile picture matters, your house’s online presence is everything. Professional photos, perfect lighting, and the occasional virtual tour help turn online browsers into in-person visitors. That digital first impression is where the magic begins!
4. Stay Flexible or Get Stuck (Literally and Figuratively)
No two homes or clients are the same, and that’s exactly what keeps things interesting! Markets shift, new trends appear, and every so often, there’s a staging challenge that even HGTV wouldn’t see coming. Staying adaptable keeps me sharp—and keeps the job exciting.
5. Learning Never Stops (And That’s Actually Fun!)
Right when I think I’ve got it all down, the market proves otherwise. There’s always a new trend, a cool tool, or a fresh way to create impact. Embracing these changes has been key, keeping me on top of things and ready for whatever’s next.
6. Decluttering: The Ultimate Magic Trick
If there’s one thing that always works, it’s decluttering! Want to make a space feel bigger, fresher, and more inviting? Start with clearing out the excess. This simple step helps buyers imagine themselves there—without all those knick-knacks in the way.
7. Transparency is Key (Yes, Even About That Squeaky Stair)
Honesty really is the best policy! From pricing and negotiations to that quirky attic window, being upfront means fewer surprises for everyone. Sometimes, clients don’t love hearing the whole truth, but it always pays off in the end and builds trust.
8. Sometimes Less is More (Or, When to Say ‘No’ to More Pillows)
Over-staging is a real thing! While it can be tempting to go all-out with decor, sometimes the best thing is to let the house do the talking. Knowing when to add a touch and when to let a room’s natural charm shine is part of the art of staging.
9. Negotiation is Half the Job and Way More Fun Than You’d Think
Negotiating terms, prices, and timing can feel a bit like a poker game, but with way more at stake! Developing strong negotiation skills has been a game-changer, allowing me to advocate for clients while finding solutions that make everyone happy. It keeps things interesting!
10. Celebrate Every Win—Big or Small
Real estate wins come in all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s a perfectly staged room, a smooth closing, or a happy client, I’ve learned to celebrate each one. Every milestone, big or small, reminds me of why I love this work and motivates me for the next.
Being a Realtor® and home stager comes with surprises, challenges, and a lot of “I didn’t see that coming” moments, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world! Ready to buy, sell, or simply talk about freshening up your space? I’m here to help make your real estate dreams a reality—one lesson at a time!
Reach out at (413) 475-2779 or email me at maijia.donovan@exprealty.com to get started!
