Dirty, ugly, smelly house for sale
It may be dirty, ugly and smelly but according to this website (no longer available), it also offers “Great bones, and a great location.”
Shocking as it may be, there’s something remarkably refreshing about the truthful approach that this agent has taken to marketing this property. Let’s face it, this is an ugly house and trying to convince prospective buyers that it’s anything but only serves to insult their intelligence. It’s not like they won’t notice once they arrive for a viewing. What’s the point in putting them through those hoops if they’re not open to purchasing a mutt? This forward approach also serves the seller by targeting the appropriate niche, and qualifying buyers. Assuming it’s priced properly, it should sell.
I can’t say that I’ve ever gone quite this far, but I can’t ever recall have a listing which would deserve such a tough description. I can tell you that it pays to be forthright in a real estate advertisement. Earlier this year; I listed a property which was built in the late 70’s and hadn’t seen an upgrade since. I started my ad by saying, “It’s not the prettiest house on the block and it’s definitely time for some upgrades but this 1,080 square foot bi-level is priced right and provides an excellent opportunity for an affordable home in a great family neighbourhood.” After a couple of days of pre-promotion, the home had 43 showings its first day on the market, attracted 16 offers, and sold for $27,000 more than the asking price. There’s obviously a great market for homes that need work. Why shouldn’t we let you know it when we have one for sale?
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Norm Fisher
Royal LePage Saskatoon Real Estate
3 comments so far. We'd love to hear your thoughts.
May 26th, 2009 at 10:42 AM
That is nice that they were honest.
I’m sure I would have expected to see “Great starter home!” or “Revenue opportunity!”
First time home buyers have their work cut out for them fending off the imposed low standards of others. All to lower the first time buyer’s expectations to increase the value of a lemon…
(To all those who would consider saying: “You younguns think you can get your S-U-V and your SWIMMUN POOLS after 2 years of collarge?!”, please reconsider. I’m not saying that at all. Don’t worry, your status and wealth are safe in your indignant arms!)
May 26th, 2009 at 10:42 AM
Earlier in the year you could have said anything you wanted, or nothing at all, and you still would have had 43 showings on the first day.
May 26th, 2009 at 10:43 AM
Even if it is ugly, it has still a factor of a good real estate..
-david