SANTO DOMINGO.- Have you ever visited a property where a bad smell greeted you, or one where insects gave you no respite, where small details ruined the long-awaited real estate transaction?
First impressions are captivating; it's called love at first sight, where distinction sets the tone and attraction leaves no room for doubt. This is according to architect Mónica Perdomo of MP Real Estate + Home Staging, who maintains that the first impression represents a great opportunity to charm the buyer and open the door to a potential negotiation.
“In my more than 10 years of experience in the real estate sector, I have observed that buyers usually decide whether they are interested in a property within the first few minutes of a visit. If the property doesn't immediately capture their attention, it's difficult to change that perception later,” he says.
The construction project specialist recommends that real estate agents and owners take the necessary steps to ensure that first impression facilitates the sale and can also increase the perceived value of the property. “In such a competitive market, these details can be the difference between a successful sale and a missed opportunity.”.
It suggests taking into account these key factors that guarantee an excellent first impression:
1. Cleanliness and order: The property should be clean, organized, and free of personal items that could distract the buyer. A cluttered space can be distracting and cause the buyer to focus on negative aspects.
2. Scents and ambiance: Smell is a powerful sense. Make sure the house smells pleasant by using mildly scented candles or diffusers, avoiding overly strong odors that could be bothersome. Additionally, creating a welcoming atmosphere with soft background music can help shoppers feel more relaxed and receptive.
3. Adequate lighting: Good lighting enhances spaces, improves visibility, and creates a welcoming atmosphere. I always recommend opening the curtains to take advantage of natural light, and if that's not enough, using warm, well-distributed lighting.
4. Neutrality: The decor should be neutral so that buyers can imagine personalizing the space to their liking. We achieve this by using soft colors and decor that isn't too specific in terms of style.
5. Exterior care: The first contact is with the exterior of the property; a well-maintained facade invites and motivates exploration of the interior.
Monica Perdomo. (External source).
Perdomo maintains that even a small detail can definitely change the situation. “Sometimes, something as simple as poor lighting, clutter, or a stain on the wall can create doubts in a buyer's mind. These details can be viewed with displeasure or interpreted as signs of neglect or larger, hidden problems. It's important to address these details before showing the property to prevent something so minor from becoming an obstacle to the sale.”.
It suggests that the property should be adapted as needed and as profitable as possible. “The preparation of a property should be comprehensive enough to make it look welcoming and well-maintained, but without spending on unnecessary renovations. The focus should be on improvements that provide the greatest return on investment for the owners and that are attractive to the largest number of buyers.”.
For those owners who are hesitant, architects advise explaining that the goal is to maximize their property's appeal and profitability. Adding visual examples of "before and after" photos of other properties can help them better understand the positive impact that making certain changes could have.
“Let’s also keep in mind that a complete renovation isn’t always necessary; the important thing is that the home looks clean, well-maintained, and attractive to the largest possible number of buyers.”.
The specialist, who is also a real estate agent and works in home staging, recommends focusing on key areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms, as these are spaces that buyers value and where updates can have a great impact on the perception of the property and its value. She also advises caution with fleeting interior design trends, suggesting opting for neutral and timeless styles and colors that appeal to a wider range of people.
“Finally, if you’re considering a major renovation, seek professional advice. A home staging expert can offer valuable guidance on the best renovation options and ensure the work is done correctly and within budget. This can not only enhance the property’s appeal but also help you avoid costly mistakes.”.
