Introduction

Years before Jim and Susan even thought about retiring, they found their happy place — a “cabin” where they could escape on weekends and holidays. It became their sanctuary, with water access and breathtaking views.

They raised two sons in that home, who have since moved away, setting the stage for future travels. They also enjoy spending time with their granddaughter and their dog, Lola.

The Property

Jim and Susan bought their home new over 30 years ago. They cared for it diligently and made thoughtful upgrades along the way — something we always recommend, since you should enjoy your home as much as possible while adding value.

Their updates included a new kitchen, a remodeled primary bath, and refinished hardwood floors. They also painted, updated trim, and made smaller improvements throughout the years. Perhaps most notably, they built a large deck and a covered outdoor living space. All of these investments not only enhanced their lifestyle but also significantly increased the home’s market appeal.

What updates or upgrades could add value to your home?

The Process

A number of years ago, Susan began asking what they should do once they both retired. Over time, we had several conversations about preparing their home — what was worth doing, and just as importantly, what wasn’t.

About a year before Jim’s planned retirement, their discussions became more focused. Kelly and Pat met with them, did a full walkthrough (as the original owners, they knew the house well), and identified a few minor updates that would make the property more marketable. We also provided guidance on staging, downsizing (moving some items to storage), and timing the sale — in their case, February or March would be ideal.

Susan and Jim rolled up their sleeves, organizing and preparing their home. Friends and family pitched in, which helped ease the workload and stress. We also suggested a pre-inspection, giving them a clear picture of what a buyer’s inspection might uncover.

As their listing season approached, they decided to give their hardwood floors a fresh update — a choice that further enhanced the home’s presentation.

The Pitch

The home was in a highly desirable subdivision with schools, shopping, and activities nearby — including multiple pools, sports fields, and even a cricket pitch. We knew there would be strong buyer interest.

Together, we determined the best listing price to attract qualified buyers. We scheduled multiple open houses during the opening weekend, and Susan even hosted a casual farewell gathering for friends and neighbors, giving them one last chance to enjoy the house together.

The Results

By working closely with Jim and Susan, we successfully sold their home during the very first weekend — with excellent terms — and set them on their way to their next adventure.