556 Stone Dr., Novato
Site Conditions
Results of Our Work
A NEIGHBORHOOD RECORD SALE PRICE
The out-of-the-area owners had rented out this home for many years. They were surprised at how tattered the property was once the tenants moved out.
Other agents told the sellers, “Leave the home as-is, and let’s put it on the market right away.”
Not our approach. The owners agreed the property would show poorly and that resurfacing it would pay off handsomely. But most homes in this Novato neighborhood, even those renovated and upgraded, sold for $980,00 or lower. We were aiming higher.
Yet, this property had good raw material—a pool and large yard. So we had to neutralize the downsides—enormous tree stumps littered the yard, walls were deteriorating and maintenance was obviously needed.
A neighbor saw we were cleaning up the yard and stopped with her written complaints. Things got complicated. We’ve seen this before when we start a home transformation. Craig spoke with the neighbor to help calm the tension, encouraged our seller to consult a trusted attorney and related everything in the disclosure package.
Our clients were happy with the outcome—7 offers, a record sale price in the neighborhood and a quick turnaround.
Exterior (before) The appearance of brick can look dated and drag down the perceived value of a home.
Exterior (after) Our designer embraced and unified the brick colors with a new, subtle color palette. We call this synergistic resurfacing where 1 + 1 = 3
Kitchen (before) So many 1990s warm hues (beige/pink cabinetry, enamel appliances, yellowing red oak flooring).
Kitchen (after) Our designer chose two-tone cabinets which lessened the need for stainless steel appliances. Craig’s signature gray floor stain helped bring the room up to date.
Bathroom (before) The existing plastic molded counters, dated flooring, damaged mirror and older components would not fetch an impressive sales price.
Bathroom (after) Families want move-in ready and are willing to pay for it. Crisp, new surfaces let buyers envision making this clean, modern home with dual sinks and skylight their own. modern, fresh appearance with a minimal investment.
Living Room (before)
Frankly, drab and unmemorable.
Living Room (after)
Our after look included more light, fresh paint and new carpet. Our stager worked her magic to give the home an upbeat feel that attracted many families.
Rear Yard (before) The graveyard of large tree trunks spoiled an otherwise pleasant, private rear yard.
Rear Yard (after) Our team used a large hydraulic stump eater to devour the carcasses in no time. Then the landscape’s natural beauty and vibrant colors took center stage.
Pool Area A drone shot captures perspective we couldn’t show any other way.
Pool Area This is the money shot we emphasized in our marketing.
Site Plan
A site map highlighted the pleasant, peaceful environment. We projected that the highest paying buyer would covet this home for family gatherings and entertaining.
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
October 19, 2023
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February 13, 2023
The Thanksgiving Offering: Around Thanksgiving, Craig met two sisters who had inherited their 1950s-era family home. The 5-bedroom, 2-bath house, adjacent to McLaren P… Read more
February 9, 2023
No Need to Wait for Spring: The sellers had two adorable, very active small children. So no surprise, the home looked lived-in damaged hardwood floors, loud child-them… Read more
February 9, 2023
Out-of-State Sellers Face Damaged Rental Property: The owners, an out-of-state elderly couple, planned to sell this rented property in a 1031 exchange. But the tenants… Read more
January 21, 2023
The Realtor to Friend Crossover: In 2011, Craig represented these clients when they bought the duplex, in poor condition with a difficult layout. But add imagination a… Read more
January 21, 2023
Upgraded Property for Half of Budget Other Agents Advised: To sell this four-floor Glen Park home, we targeted families with children, work-from-home couples and dog l… Read more
July 22, 2022
Out-Of-State Sellers Take The Harder Route: This Daly City family home had been converted to a rental and went untouched for years. The owners, living in the Midwest, … Read more
July 21, 2022
A Neighborhood Record Sale Price: The out-of-the-area owners had rented out this home for many years. They were surprised at how tattered the property was once the ten… Read more
July 8, 2022
Time to Sell and Buy Outside the City: Craig had sold this lower-level condo in the Mission District to the same couple almost 10 years ago. Now they wanted to move ou… Read more
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