Benefit your balance sheet! Innovative and Smart Strategies to Showcase and Sell Stubborn Spec Homes!

Staring at a spec home that just won’t budge off your inventory list? Is it eating away at your margin through land and interest carry costs? Don't sweat it! Selling a home that’s been sitting can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Here are some fun, creative ways to make that home shine, stand above your competitor’s homes and help your sales team find its perfect buyer.

First… impressions matter; and first impressions matter! Think of the exterior as the cover of a book – it needs to catch people's eyes. Give the lawn a trim or the gravel a smooth raked finish. Plant some bright flowers (or potted works also), and maybe even add an eye-catching “Welcome Home” sign to the front door. A welcoming exterior can be like a big, friendly smile that invites people in.

Empty homes can feel a bit...well, empty. Bring in some stylish furniture and décor to make the space feel lived-in and inviting. Professional staging can turn a blank canvas into a masterpiece, helping buyers envision their future in the home. (and it’s not as costly as you think!) Also, if you don’t have your own marketing department, many REALTORS® are accredited home stagers and offer this service.

In today’s world, everyone’s looking online first. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 97% of homebuyers start their new home search online. Invest in high-quality photos and videos, including virtual tours, to showcase the home’s best features. Refrain from using artists renderings at all costs. Think of this as creating an awesome online dating profile for your house – you want it to look its absolute best! Stuccco offers reasonable rates and quick turn-around times.

Use social media to spread the word about your home like it’s the hottest new restaurant in town. Share engaging content, (add value by what you decide to share!) like virtual tours, behind-the-scenes looks, and fun facts about the home. If a dancing dog can go viral on Tik Tok, why not your beautiful spec home?

Open houses don’t have to be stiff and formal. Host themed events – how about a Sunday brunch with a food truck, a backyard BBQ, or even a home-buying seminar? These fun gatherings can draw in potential buyers and create a buzz around the property. Use these events to help potential buyers “see” themselves living in the home.

Does the home have a chef’s dream kitchen? A spa-like bathroom? Don’t be shy – show off those unique features! Highlighting the best aspects of the home can make it stand out from the competition like a rock star at a karaoke night.

Who can resist a sweet deal? Offer incentives like help with closing costs, a home warranty, or a discount for quick closing. These perks can make your home more appealing and give buyers that extra nudge they need to make an offer.

Make sure your marketing materials are packed with useful info about the home and the neighborhood; and I mean useful. If your material is highlighting bedroom and bathroom counts, how many garage spaces, etc. it’s just a repeat of what they have already researched themselves. Focus on nearby parks, great schools, shopping centers – mention it all. The more buyers know, the more comfortable they’ll feel making a decision.

If the home has been sitting on the market for a while, get some feedback from potential buyers and real estate agents. What’s turning people off? Sometimes, a little tweak can make all the difference. Use their insights to make smart adjustments. This can be tough but remove your personal opinions from the equation (you may not be representative of the buyer profile for this home!)

Team up with local real estate agents who know the area like the back of their hand. They can provide valuable insights and help you reach the right buyers.

Selling a spec home that’s been lingering on the market doesn’t have to be a headache. With a bit of creativity, some elbow grease, and a touch of humor, you can highlight the home’s best features and attract the right buyers. Remember, it’s all about making the home look irresistible and standing out in the crowd. So dive in, enjoy the process, and watch that spec home find its new owner in no time!