If it’s been shown 10+ times without an app, it might help to refresh the listing photos after the paint job and carpet update small visual tweaks can make a big difference in perceived value.

But if you’re playing the long game, it quietly becomes one of the most powerful tools in your portfolio.I’d love to hear what strategies you’re using to hedge against inflation—let’s connect.Let me know if you want to attach a chart or data point for visual impact.

After 40+ years of experience, I've learned that most folks have no visual imagination, so the condition they see the first view is what they believe they'll get.Experience fact #2:  tenants say the darndest things, so avoid showing the unit with an existing tenant, esp one who is on their way out. 

Time on Market (Days on Market - DOM)Staged Homes Sell Faster:According to the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA), staged homes spend 73% less time on the market compared to non-staged homes.thezebra.comblog.remax.caRESA data from a study of 1,080 homes showed that unstaged homes averaged 184 days on the market, while homes staged after listing sold in 41 days, and homes staged before listing sold in 23 days, a 90% reduction in DOM for pre-staged homes.robinrealtygroup.comNAR reports staged homes spend 33% to 50% less time on the market than non-staged homes.forbes.comA 2021 survey by First Impression Home Staging indicated staged homes sell 88% faster, with 90% of staged homes selling within 2 weeks.firstimpressionhomestaging.comNAR’s 2023 Profile of Home Staging noted that 27% of sellers’ agents reported staged homes spent less time on the market.bankrate.comNon-Staged Homes:Non-staged homes, particularly vacant ones, can linger significantly longer, with RESA reporting an average of 184 days for unstaged homes before staging.robinrealtygroup.comNon-staged homes may face prolonged listing periods due to buyers’ difficulty visualizing the space, leading to extended decision-making.kmmrealty.com2.

My guess is the tenant is so attached to their stuff and the apartment they cannot visualize leaving.  

Personally, I think adding a bit more visual interest, like artwork, curtains, a bold accent wall, or even a peel-and-stick mural—could really elevate the feel and make the photos pop for guests scrolling through listings.The backyard looks like a nice open space, but it might benefit from a few fun touches.

Visuals help a lot.✅ Comparable Sales (Comps) – At least 3 similar recently sold properties nearby to support your ARV.✅ Experience & Team – Briefly describe your background and who’s on your team (contractor, agent, mentor, etc.).

Curious, does your app just offer visual inspo or does it link to actual SKUs or items for purchase? 

Your agent can help you negotiate things like a post-closing occupancy (renting the home from the buyer for a set period) or flexible closing dates to help smooth out that transition as much as possible.Here’s a simple visual that can help you think through your options (see below):But the best way to determine what’s best for you and your specific situation?

We also train our staff to do informal visual inspections during showings or maintenance calls.