When I first visit a home I’ll be listing, I take note of its strengths and weaknesses. My goal is to highlight and maximize its strengths while finding a silver lining for any shortcomings. These storylines carry through every aspect of preparation, marketing, and presentation. In the case of this South Pasadena home, the strengths were generous square footage and abundant storage, while the primary challenge was limited outdoor space.

The prep, staging, and even the marketing language emphasized how spacious the home felt and how effortlessly it supported everyday living. We framed the smaller outdoor area with a silver lining - highlighting its low maintenance appeal and how perfectly it lends itself to chic outdoor dinners and intimate gatherings, rather than expansive outdoor play.

The turnaround time was tight, and several updates needed to be completed before going to market. In just under two weeks, the home’s interior and exterior were painted, cleaned, staged and photographed to perfection. I managed all the contractors day in and out to make sure everything was in line with our marketing vision.

By the time open houses began, the stage was fully set. To elevate the in-person experience, I curated a custom playlist, designed floral arrangements, diffused a signature scent throughout the home and personally hosted each open — sharing insights about the neighborhood and answering questions. Unlike larger teams, I never place a junior agent at my open houses. There is no better expert than the agent who has obsessed over every last detail of the home.

Once in escrow it was time to bring it home, no pun intended. From handling inspectors, problem-solving concerns and meeting with nervous parents and assuring them of their child’s purchase: I shine in the details. It’s all about seeing around corners, keeping all parties accountable and on task and always advocating for my clients.

When it came time to close the buyer got their keys and more importantly the sellers got their money, which was $130,000 more than they were planning on. Everyone was happy and free to move on to their next chapter. The End.