Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

Garage Envy

Alan J. DiStasio  |  September 12, 2022

Real Estate Guidance

Garage Envy

Early in my real estate career, I had the opportunity to list and sell a lovely one-level house owned by a couple looking to downsize. It was evident that the owners had done a fantastic job maintaining their home.

At the same time, I was also working with a buyer that was only interested in buying land on which to build. In the buyer's mind, they would never find a home in better shape than a newly built house. After much searching, the buyer realized that he might never find the right piece of land. He also realized that building would cost more than he had initially budgeted.

Knowing that the house I had listed was in excellent shape (and within his budget), I encouraged the buyer to have a look. Fortunately, he did. During the showing, the buyer remarked about the excellent condition of the garage. He said if the seller took care of the rest of the house as well as he took care of his garage, then there should be nothing to worry about regarding the home's overall condition. He claimed he had never seen such a nice garage. The buyer made an offer, and the building inspection ultimately proved the buyer's assumption was well founded. Bonus: the buyer didn't have to wait months and months for the house to be built before moving in.

The first takeaway: Condition is everything when selling a home, particularly when it comes to secondary spaces such as a garage or basement. A well-maintained house will always sell for more (and quicker) than one that isn't, even when all other variables are equal.

The second takeaway is that buyers should keep an open mind regarding their needs and desires when searching for a home. Buyers will miss opportunities that may ultimately suit their needs by being inflexible.


Recent Blog Posts

Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.

Market Intelligence

How's the Market? It depends on where you live...

Alan J. DiStasio  |  August 5, 2024

Real estate markets, even those in neighboring towns can yield different results.

Life In The Upper Valley

Best Art Galleries in the Upper Valley

Alan J. DiStasio  |  April 1, 2024

Exploring the Upper Valley’s Vibrant Art Scene.

Real Estate Guidance

Everything You Need to Know about Getting Your Home Inspected Before Selling

Alan J. DiStasio  |  March 22, 2024

Ensuring a Smooth Transaction: The Essential Guide to Home Inspection Before Selling.

Real Estate Guidance

Ultimate Guide to Selling Your House

Alan J. DiStasio  |  January 29, 2024

Expert strategies for maximizing your sale.

Real Estate Guidance

Moving to Norwich, VT: 13 Things to Know

Alan J. DiStasio  |  December 6, 2023

From the diversity of real estate options to the town’s historic charm, here’s a comprehensive guide to Norwich!

Real Estate Guidance

Best ROI Home Improvements for Your Home

Alan J. DiStasio  |  September 26, 2023

Maximizing your home's value: Turning dreams into profitable realities.

Life In The Upper Valley

Building a Home in the Upper Valley

Alan J. DiStasio  |  July 20, 2023

What you’ll need to know before constructing the home of your dreams in this scenic community.

Life In The Upper Valley

Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Lebanon, NH

Alan J. DiStasio  |  June 19, 2023

Learn more about what you can expect before moving to New Hampshire's smallest city.

Real Estate Guidance

What to Look For When Choosing a REALTOR® to Buy & Sell a Home

Alan J. DiStasio  |  March 26, 2023

Learn how to identify the best real estate agent to help you buy or sell a home.

Work With Alan

Get assistance in determining current property value, crafting a competitive offer, writing and negotiating a contract, and much more. Contact me today.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM!