As the economic forecast changes, so do the expectations of buyers and sellers in the real estate market. We asked Lauren Laughry, a native Dallasite and realtor with The Becky Frey Real Estate Team, about her forecast for Fall and the interior design elements that might make a major impression when it comes to buying or selling.
Park Cities Lifestyle: What is your team’s current forecast for the real estate market this Fall, specifically for buyers and sellers in the Park Cities?
Lauren Laughry: Summer has brought a nice break in the market, and we have seen buyers being more relaxed about the home-buying process. Typically, Dallas is a 60–90 market, we don’t expect that to return this Fall—but we will see chances for negotiations.
PCL: How important is it to stage a home to sell if the owner is no longer living there?
LL: This depends on the market. This past Spring, you didn’t need to stage a home because of the demand—but in a normal market, staging really helps buyers understand the different spaces in the home.
PCL: What about interior updates before listing a home? What renovations (large or small) are worth it?
LL: Kitchen and bathrooms are always worth it!
Tips for Sellers
What interior updates should sellers consider before listing their home?
· New Paint
“We always walk through a client’s home and suggest which rooms just need a touch-up and which rooms might need a totally new color,” Laughry says. “White is a good option because it’s fresh and allows buyers to picture their own furniture in the home.”
· Fresh White Towels
“Including these in the bathroom might seem silly, but they make a huge difference in photos and in how your home appears online.”
· Updated Countertops
“This small change in the kitchen and bathrooms can really improve the presentation of your home.”
· Fresh Flowers
“We usually place orchids around our listings to add a nice pop in photos!”
Tips for Buyers
What should buyers look for when it comes to interior style?
· Think about how your family gathers
“Do you like a formal dining room?” Laughry asks. “Or would you rather have a bigger breakfast room for casual dining? Do you need a home office? Does this office need to be isolated?”
· Picture your family in the home on a holiday
“How does the space work for big events like this? Where would you put your Christmas tree? Seems silly, but it’s the small details that matter when making a big decision.”
Learn more about Lauren Laughry and The Becky Frey Real Estate Group at compass.com.