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Navigating Change with Compassion: Facilitating a Smooth Transition for an Elderly Homeowner
Problem:
Assisting an Elderly Homeowner in Making a Delicate Transition while Preserving Autonomy
Our seller client is an elderly woman who lived in her home alongside her late husband for 40 years. With no children to inherit the property, she faced the challenging decision of selling her beloved home. However, the emotional attachment to her home made it difficult for her to entertain the idea of moving out – even though she knew it was time to find a more suitable living situation.
We recognized her desire to maintain her independence and lifestyle. She expressed a willingness to move into a local rental as long as she would be able to retain her car and continue driving. Resolving this situation required finding a solution that would address both her emotional attachment to her home and her need for autonomy and mobility.
Solution:
Developed a Tailored Transition Plan & Strong Marketing Strategy
To help our client understand her choices, our team devised a plan tailored to her needs and preferences. We assisted the seller in understanding her options for renting, previewing apartments, and senior living options on her behalf to find one that suited her needs. We wanted to make sure she had viable options that met her criteria prior to listing the home on the market.
As for the home, it was in need of some decluttering and a lot of updating. But she didn’t have any money to do any improvements or maintenance. We helped guide the seller and her relatives on what to keep in the house and what to remove. In addition, we hired a professional cleaner to ensure the property was spotless and presented the home in the best light.
Once the home was decluttered and cleaned, we set to work staging it using the client’s belongings to show off the features of the home. We removed curtains to bring in more natural light and allow a clear view of the conservation land across the street. We also rearranged furniture to best suit the layout of the home. Realizing that this would make an excellent family home, we strategically placed a teddy bear in an otherwise empty bedroom to help buyers envision the space and its potential use.
We knew the property was most likely going to be purchased by a developer, who would either demolish the home and rebuild, or gut renovate the existing home. We proactively contacted the town to gain a comprehensive understanding of the land and its possibilities. By providing guidance and implementing strategic measures, our solution was aimed to maximize the property’s market appeal and offer the seller a range of viable choices, to ultimately garner strong offers for our client.
Result:
Selling for Over-Asking and Securing Finacial Stability
Throughout the listing process, the seller experienced an unforeseen medical issue, which led her to realize that moving into an assisted living facility closer to her niece’s home was the best course of action. In response to this change, we swiftly adapted our approach and provided assistance to the seller and her family in removing items from the property and negotiating with the new buyers regarding the furnishings they wished to keep. By implementing this strategic approach, we set an offer deadline and received four offers, diligently negotiating with the highest bidder to amend certain terms to meet the seller’s requirements including a use and occupancy to allow the family to move out items after the closing. Ultimately, the property sold for a price that exceeded the listed price, securing the seller with significant financial resources to cover her assisted living expenses for years to come. This successful outcome ensured that the seller could transition into her new living arrangement with peace of mind and financial stability.
What Our Client’s Niece Had to Say:
Marie Presti and her whole team (Tiffany is a special star) were so wonderful to deal with. Everything ran so smoothly thanks to them, from our initial meeting through the closing, and all of the numerous details in between that needed special attention. They went above & beyond in every way possible! Thank you Presti Group!
Finding Home Far from Home: Navigating a Cross-Country Move and Transforming a Fixer-Upper
How Marie Presti and The Presti Group Guided First-Time Homebuyers from California Purchase and Renovate Their Dream Home in Massachusetts
Problem:
We were referred by a previous client to help their friends who were moving from California to Massachusetts and wanted to purchase a home. Since they were first-time homebuyers and unfamiliar with the process, they were overwhelmed, especially since they were relocating to a different part of the country. The couple didn’t know where to start and hadn’t finalized their moving plans, which made it challenging for them to focus on finding a home.
Solution:
To address their concerns, we scheduled a meeting with them six months before their planned move to provide them with a detailed overview of the home-buying process. Our primary objective was to equip them with the necessary knowledge and confidence to begin their journey toward homeownership.
We started the process by asking them to create a list of their desired features and requirements in a home. This step was crucial in helping them narrow down their search and avoid wasting time and effort on properties that didn’t meet their needs. We then assisted them in determining their budget based on their requirements and the specific geographic location they were considering. Given that they were unfamiliar with the Boston real estate market, we helped them adjust their expectations and gain a clear understanding of what they could realistically afford in that area. We also discussed the pre-approval process and encouraged them to speak to a local lender.
After taking these factors into consideration, we engaged in a discussion about the possibility of considering homes that needed significant renovations. The couple expressed their openness to this idea, recognizing that some individuals prefer move-in ready houses depending on their circumstances. However, this couple was in a favorable position to take on major renovation projects, which expanded their range of opportunities beyond what some people can typically pursue.
Process:
After visiting multiple properties, our buyers came across a home that required significant renovation. As part of The Presti Group’s commitment to providing comprehensive services, we connected our clients with trusted contractors who could assess the property and determine if their vision could be achieved within a reasonable budget.
Despite facing stiff competition with five other offers, all of which exceeded the asking price, we conducted a thorough price analysis to demonstrate to our buyers that the property was undervalued. Our goal was to ensure they did not overpay for the house. Ultimately, they had to increase their offer by $100,000 over the list price to secure its acceptance. Fortunately, the appraiser appraised the home at the full purchase price, confirming that their offer was not excessive.
Since the property was part of an estate sale, its sale was contingent upon obtaining the necessary license. The buyers were uncertain about what this entailed, so we provided guidance and support throughout the process, explaining the potential impact on the closing date. As expected, the closing was delayed by one month, a circumstance that we had prepared the buyers for.
Result:
As a result of our collaborative efforts, our couple happily closed on their dream home. This marked a significant milestone in their journey toward homeownership. We understood their desire to transform their new property into their ideal living space, we facilitated connections between them and a selection of reputable contractors who could bring their renovation dreams to life. Currently, our couple is in the process of renovations, eagerly watching their new home transform into the home they envisioned. During this time, they are temporarily living with relatives, grateful for the opportunity to witness their dream home come to fruition. This exciting chapter in their lives is where they can create lasting memories in a space tailored to their needs and aspirations.
What the Client Had to Say:
“Working with Marie Presti was the best choice we made during our whole home buying process!
As first time home buyers it’s especially important to have an agent who knows the area, knows the current market, and is looking out for your interests. Marie is all of the above and more! She’s incredibly hard working, is available at short notice during offer crunch times, and sudden changes. She’s always trying to get you the best deal. We ended up with a real fixer upper, which resulted in a lower than expected commission for Marie, but she never mentioned anything about that, and worked very hard to get us that house, and, believe me, the hard work was necessary as we did end up in a bidding war!
Additionally, if you want someone experienced in the field and in the area (and you definitely do) Marie is the one to go to. Not only was she familiar with the seller’s agent, she had actually helped HIM buy his first house years ago.”
– Melissa P.
Navigating the Home Upgrade Dilemma: How One Family Found a Solution for a Smooth Move
Timing it Right: Selling Your Home; Buying a New One
Problem:
A young couple with two children had the age-old dilemma: they wanted to upgrade to a larger home but needed to sell their Newton condo first. They had three options after accepting an offer: ask for a delayed closing to give them time to search for a new home, rent back their home for a while from the buyer, or move into a temporary rental post-closing. Their situation was complicated by the fact that they wanted to stay in the same school district, which limited their options.
Solution:
I listed their condo in January for $559,000, after making sure there were no snowstorms in the forecast. We did some light staging — pillows, art, carefully curated accessories — and the condo dazzled. I priced the property a little low, because my clients were eager to sell (they had two young children, and keeping the property show-worthy was tough) and I had a feeling the price would entice. I was right: we received eight offers and accepted one for $600,000. The offer allowed my clients to stay in their condo for four months after closing — rent-free. Ultimately, they opted to move into a rental for six months as they looked for a new home.
Result:
My clients were delighted to receive an offer above their asking price, which gives them the freedom to search for their ideal home without the need for a contingency based on their condo sale. This allows them to make a strong offer when they find their dream home, ensuring a smoother purchasing process.
From Budget Constraints to Dream Home: How Thinking Outside the Box Led These First-Time Home Buyers to Success
Expanding Possibilities By Widening the Geographical Net
Problem:
These first-time home buyers wanted to move out of Boston and into a single-family with plenty of indoor and outdoor space for their family of four. They were on a limited budget and hoped to find a fixer-upper that the wife’s brother could renovate. They had their sights set on one South Shore town but were outbid every time by developers offering cash, who were going to rehab the properties and flip them.
Solution:
When price is an issue, one of our jobs is to help our clients widen their house-hunting net, in order to give them more options. Although our clients were focusing on Braintree, we introduced them to several lovely towns a bit further south where I knew they could get more bang for their buck. Additionally, I asked them how realistic it was to assume their relative could do a major renovation on a fixer-upper. Working full-time, he would have to do most of the work on the weekends, and it could take years for him to complete the job. They agreed it would be preferable to buy a home that would not require any major work.
Result:
They had their bid accepted on a lovely four-bedroom, two-bathroom Cape in a town about 30 miles south of Boston — a doable commute for the wife, who works in the city. It’s on a corner lot, so there is plenty of room for the couple’s young children to play. Additionally, the home’s side street boasts high-end homes so I suggested the couple investigate whether they could legally reorient their home with a curb cut to face that street. This would increase the market value of their home.
Navigating the Real Estate Rollercoaster: When Plan A Falters, Plan B Leads to Success
Knowing When It’s Time to Pursue Plan B
Problem:
I suggested that my clients, who were going through a divorce, put their lovely large colonial in Newton on the market for $1,520,000 and I marketed it aggressively, including a 3D online tour. After two weeks, we got an offer that was slightly lower than asking and contingent on the buyers obtaining a mortgage. It became clear they were running into difficulties getting financing and my clients agreed to give them more time. After more waiting, I advised them that while they shouldn’t officially call off the deal, they had to entertain other options. I knew it would be critical to do another open house.
Solution:
The open house was packed and we got a full-price offer, contingent on financing. The couple who had had trouble obtaining a mortgage came back with the same offer dollar-wise, but this time they waived their mortgage contingency. Then the new folks agreed to up their offer to $1,560,000 million. Choosing their offer would delay the closing by a couple of months, but ultimately my clients chose it. They were thrilled with the price their home fetched.
Result:
After renting for a while, I recently helped the wife negotiate a deal on a sweet colonial that had recently undergone a gut rehab. We identified a few things the developer had neglected to do and made sure everything was finished before she moved in.
Embracing the Unexpected: How an Open Mind Led to Finding the Perfect Home
Staying Open to Possibilities, Even When the Home Doesn’t Check All the Boxes
Problem: My clients previsouly sold their Newton condo with The Presti Group, well above asking price, moved into a rental and were now looking in the same school district for a larger home. However, there were limited properties on the market that met their criteria.
Solution:
When inventory is limited, you have to be open to properties that may not be perfect. When I saw a condo online that checked most of my clients’ boxes, I wasn’t deterred by the wife’s skepticism. It was a gorgeous, bright 2,500 square-foot townhouse, occupying the first and part of the second floor of a stately 130-year-old home. But the wife was reluctant to have someone living above her. Nevertheless, I decided to check it out during a broker showing. It was lovely and I immediately called the wife, urging her to go to the open house the next day. She did, and loved it. A 2015 renovation had included lots of insulation and as a result, you couldn’t hear a peep from upstairs. The bidding was fierce, but my clients’ over-asking price bid was accepted.
Result:
As my clients settled into their new home, they were pleasantly surprised to find that the soundproofing was incredibly effective. The worries about noise from upstairs were quickly put to rest, as not a peep could be heard. The serene and quiet atmosphere provided the ideal environment for my clients to create their dream living space. They couldn’t be happier with their decision and are now enjoying the tranquility of their new home.
Charm and Competition: How a Transformed Newton Victorian Ignited a Bidding War
Newton Victorian Inspires a Bidding War
Problem:
The 1,800-square-feet, 150-year-old Newton Mansard Victorian was loaded with charm, generally well-maintained, but it had some issues that needed to be addressed. The wide plank pine floors, which were original to the home, were splitting. A parquet floor in the entryway looked dated and shag carpeting masked the front stairway’s period appeal.
The family was able to move out for a couple of weeks, so we had free and easy access to the house and this was especially helpful because of all the pandemic precautions we took.
Solution:
We got quotes for fixing the pine floors vs. replacing them. New oak flooring would be about the same price as repairing them, so I advised my clients to go for the oak. We removed the shag carpeting and painted the stairs, which made them dazzle. We also did some light staging with new bedding, accent pillows, bedroom lamps, and sumptuous towels. We created a more welcoming entrance by placing a rocking chair and mums on the front porch. The upgrades cost about $7,000.
We also marketed the property to the hilt, including creating a 12-page booklet that provided lots of helpful information about the property and the neighborhood, including what attracted the owners to the home in the first place.
Result:
Can you say "$100,000 over asking?” Yes indeed. In consultation with the owners, we listed the home at $799,900. The price was conservative in deference to the time of year, but we also wanted to generate a lot of excitement and the decision paid off. We got seven bids. The winner paid $900,000 and I have two very happy clients.
Navigating Obstacles: How Creative Negotiation Saved the Day for a First-Time Homebuyer on the South Shore
Saving a Deal Threatened by Asbestos Insulation
Problem:
He was a first-time buyer, looking for a home on the South Shore for under $400,000 in early May. My client and his girlfriend fell in love with a charming 100-year-old single family, but so did a lot of other people. At $385,000, it was priced to sell and I knew there would be a bidding war. I asked the seller’s agent if they would accept a bid with an escalation clause. My client would pay $2,000 over the highest bid, up to a certain price. They agreed. My client’s $397,000 offer was accepted. But the home inspector found a lot of things wrong with the house, most notably, probable asbestos in the attic insulation. Removing it would be pricey. Would the deal fall through?
Solution:
We asked for $13,000 off our offer to take care of the home’s problems, including removing the insulation. The sellers said "no,” and didn’t want to negotiate. My client and his girlfriend were crestfallen but I told them to hang tight. I went back to the seller’s agent and told her that the asbestos would have to be disclosed to other potential buyers or removed and we had already agreed to pay $2,000 more than the highest buyer. They agreed to take $7,000 off our offer and my client and his girlfriend were thrilled.
Result: My client was prepared to go through with his original offer of $397,000 but I was determined to get him some financial consideration for the home’s issues.
From Doubt to Delight: How Strategic Staging and Marketing Led to a Successful Sale in Waltham
Ambivalence Turns into Elation
Problem:
The two-bedroom Waltham colonial had been in our client’s family for three generations and he had a strong emotional attachment to it. Although he was ready for the next chapter — moving south with several other family members — he was ambivalent about selling. Would he be amenable to our advice about how to make the property even more appealing?
Solution:
We counseled the homeowner to hire a terrific stager we often work with, knowing the small investment would ultimately pay for itself many times over. He had collected some gorgeous furniture over the years, but there was too much of it, so he was advised to pare it down. Rooms were painted in more neutral tones and original light fixtures, which looked dated, were replaced. The stager also purchased some lovely accessories to freshen up the home, which the client ended up keeping for his new place. The pièce de résistance was the beautiful sunken patio and outdoor fireplace. We made the outdoor area into a showpiece with a thorough yard cleanup and strategically placed plants.
Finally, we marketed the property, taking professional interior and exterior photographs and creating a 3D online tour and floor plan as well as a 12-page booklet detailing everything a prospective buyer would want to know about the home, the area and financing options. We’re social media mavens so we leveraged every channel, posting a gorgeous nighttime photo of the outdoor sitting area with lights twinkling and fireplace roaring. The day it came on the market, we advertised the first weekend's open houses on Facebook and Google.
Result:
All that marketing paid off. We had about 80 people come through the home, which we listed at $699,000, the highest price for a two-bedroom in Waltham at the time. It sold for $725,000 after five days on the market! The client was thrilled.
From Setbacks to Success: How Tenacity and Vision Led to Finding the Perfect Home in Burlington
When the Going Got Tough, We Pressed On
Problem:
They were young, first-time buyers, hoping to purchase a single-family home in the Burlington-Bedford-Billerica area for under $650,000. That’s a tricky price point in those towns. And then came several setbacks: their bids on three homes were declined and a fourth one was accepted, but then the sellers backed out because they couldn’t find a new home. At that point, a lot of buyers go into what I call a mourning period and press pause on the search. I urged my clients to remain hopeful, and they agreed to continue looking.
Solution:
There wasn’t a lot on the market at this point, but one roomy raised ranch with a two-car garage in a lovely Burlington neighborhood piqued my interest. I had a feeling the online photos didn’t do it justice. The price had dropped a few times to $595,500 from a high of $650,000, so I urged my clients to take a look. Some of the features were dated (pink tiles in the bathroom) and there were some mismatched finishes, but I knew if I helped my clients visualize the home’s potential, they might consider making an offer. And they did.
Result:
I was able to negotiate the price down to $580,000 and now my clients are well-positioned financially to make the cosmetic changes that will turn a home they like into a home they love.
