Tailored strategies. Genuine service. Results you can trust.
We specialise in residential property sales by private sale, creating tailored strategies for every home, every seller and every market — with a focus on achieving the best possible result.
What's On The Market
Husband & Wife Team - Supported by Many
Renee and Craig Frost have been working side by side since opening Frost Real Estate in 2014.
Together, they have built a business founded on a simple but powerful belief: real estate should bring certainty, clarity and confidence to what can often feel like an industry filled with doubt.
With a genuine passion for property and people, Renee and Craig have worked hard to create a tailored approach to selling homes - one that is thoughtful, considered and uniquely suited to each client and property.
Today, their focus remains as clear as it was from the beginning: to deliver an exceptional real estate experience and achieve the very best outcomes for the people and homes they represent across Victoria.
Celebrating Recent Sales
A Proven Sales Process
We believe great sales come from getting the important things right — from accurate appraisals through to presentation, marketing, buyer engagement and negotiation. Each part of our process builds on the one before it to create a strong approach to achieving the best possible outcome.
We’ve successfully sold homes across more than 100 suburbs throughout Victoria using a unique sales process designed to provide certainty, clarity, and confidence when selling one of life’s most valuable assets.
Some of the areas we service include; Wallan, Hidden Valley, Beveridge, Kilmore, Upper Plenty, Whittlesea, Heathcote Junction, Broadford, Wandong, Craigieburn, Mickleham, Donnybrook, Kalkallo, Romsey, Doreen, Mernda, South Morang, Epping, Wollert, Seymour and surrounding suburbs.
Testimonials
Friendly, punctual, honest and professional.
Our family sold with Frost Real Estate a number of years ago. They went beyond our expectations in selling our home. Friendly, punctual, honest and professional. They helped with suggestions for styling and making our house the best it could be. They sold our home whilst making it a wonderful, stress free experience. Highly recommended! Alison Greenwood - 178 Sherbourne Road, Montmorency
A pleasure to deal with through the entire process of selling our home
Both Craig and Renee have been a pleasure to deal with through the entire process of selling our home. From Renee's assistance with getting the home ready for presentation to the market, to Craig's commitment to finding the right buyer, they were both incredibly professional and supportive throughout. We would have no hesitation in recommending Frost Real Estate to any home seller. Heather & Ross Dowling
Personalised, honest and stress-free real estate experience
Dear Craig and Renee I am writing to provide feedback regarding my recent engagement with your company. As you know I have both purchased and sold properties with Frost Real Estate. I was impressed at the outset by Craig’s professionalism, interpersonal skills and reliability. Craig was open and honest and went out of his way to support me to purchase my dream home. My purchase depended on a simultaneous sale of my investment property. Craig was able to explain my circumstances to the vendor and able to reassure them of my capacity to follow through. Craig did this ethically by examining the market and providing an honest market appraisal. Craig ensured all parties needs were met. In relation to the sale of my investment property, Craig and Renee were supportive and helpful, always courteous and nothing was of any trouble to them. They accommodated potential purchasers and were always available to respond to my needs. The fact that they were able to facilitate a sale during COVID restrictions is a testament to Craig’s perseverance and diligence. The administration staff were always friendly and responsive, sending documentation through in a timely manner. I would highly recommend Frost Real Estate to anyone who seeks a personalised, honest and stress-free real estate experience. Thank you and best wishes. Yours sincerely Raelene Matejka 12/10/2020
An Approach Built on C.A.R.E
C - Clarity
We listen first to gain clarity. Every homeowner and every property is different. By taking the time to understand your goals, circumstances and priorities, we can better tailor a sales journey to you and your situation.
A — Advice
We provide honest advice based on experience and evidence. This includes everything from genuine appraisal ranges to property presentation tips. Our role is to share our knowledge, insights and recommendations so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
R — Respect
We respect that it is your home and the decisions relating to the sale of your home will ultimately be yours. This includes everything from when you choose to sell and the price you choose to advertise your property to market. While we bring experience and expertise, we believe the best outcomes come from a partnership built on trust, transparency and respect.
E — Empowerment
We empower you to make confident decisions. By providing information, guidance and support throughout the process, we help you feel in control of one of life's biggest decisions. Making informed decisions today can help create the opportunities you want tomorrow
Insights You Should Know
Stay up to date with our latest news, tips and tricks.
Styling your main bedroom
Bedrooms and especially main bedrooms are private spaces and it's uncommon for others to be invited into this personal area of your home. As a result, it's entirely natural for buyers to feel that they are intruding on someone else's privacy when they step into a bedroom. This underscores the importance of finding ways to ensure your bedrooms are presented in such a way that they are instead considered places of comfort. The Importance of Setting the Right Bedroom Atmosphere When walking into a high-quality BnB or a luxurious five-star hotel room, the attention to detail makes you feel welcome, and at ease. You could almost believe that no one else has ever slept in the bed and that it has been exclusively prepared for you. This level of care and thoughtfulness is precisely what you should aim for when presenting your bedroom to buyers. An inviting bedroom can make potential buyers feel like they belong in the space. Mastering the Art of Bed Making One of the critical methods for enhancing the overall appearance of any bedroom is by focusing on the way you make your beds. Below is a step-by-step guide you can use to create a bed poised for a professional photoshoot and inspections. Step 1: Start with a Level Base Begin by ensuring that the mattress is even and smooth. Step 2: Check the Bed Head and Bed End Ensure the bed head and end are clean and in good condition. Step 3: Clear Under-Bed Space Ensure nothing under the bed might be visible in photos or inspections. Step 4: Enhance the Bed Base To enhance the bed's presentation, address the bed base's appearance. Consider using a bed skirt or bed wrap if the base remains visible even with the duvet or comforter on the bed. For a budget-friendly option, you can use a fitted sheet. Bed skirts are available in a range of prices, from $18 to $150. Pro Tip: Ironing your chosen Manchester, including the bed skirt, can change its look dramatically. Another option is using a steam iron to remove wrinkles for a polished look. Step 5: Invest in Well-Fitting Bed Linens Invest in well-fitting bed linens, including a fitted bottom sheet and two matching pillowcases. Standard mattress depths typically range from 20 to 35 cm but can be as deep as 38 to 46 cm. Keep this in mind when choosing a bottom sheet, as its purpose is to wrap securely underneath the mattress and cover its sides entirely. Step 6: Top Sheets for Personal Use If you intend to sleep in the bed during the campaign and prefer to use a top sheet, be sure to select one that matches the other linens. Pro Tip: When buying new items, consider investing in higher-quality options, especially if you plan to use them beyond the sales campaign, perhaps in your new home. Just remember to prioritize styling your current home in line with the recommendations here rather than solely focusing on personal preferences. Pro Tip: Remember to wash your hands before handling the Manchester. If you want to be particularly careful, you might want to consider wearing some gloves to avoid oils passing on to the soft furnishings. Step 7: Opt for White Choose white linens to keep it simple yet stylish. That's what people expect when they are staying at a top-notch vocation. If you would prefer to use coloured sheets, choose neutral tones that seamlessly blend with the room's decor. Pro Tip: You want buyers to be drenched in a sense of calm when viewing your room and not distracted by any particular item you have chosen. Step 8: Select a Well-Fluffed Duvet or Doona Choose a well-fluffed duvet, doona, or quilt to cover the mattress smoothly. Ensure it hangs evenly on both sides and completely covers the bottom sheet. You can find king-size options at retailers like KMart, Spotlight, and Target for around $30. Step 9: Opt for a Versatile White Duvet Cover When it comes to selecting a duvet cover, white often emerges as the most convenient and practical choice due to its inherent versatility and timeless charm. However, it's essential to recognize that there are various shades of white, each with its unique texture. When choosing the style of your white duvet cover for your bed(s), exercise caution by considering the shade and texture. White is a reliable option that effortlessly infuses brightness into your room, serving as an excellent foundation for further enhancements. Moreover, opting for a white duvet cover simplifies the process of coordinating cushions and throw rugs with your room's decor. Pro Tip: Alternatively, if you feel confident about using a coloured or patterned cover, remember that specific patterns might appear distorted in photos and could potentially diminish the room's overall sense of calm. Step 10: Dressing your Duvet There are many methods people use for putting a cover on a duvet. Do what's most effortless for you while keeping the cover as wrinkle-free as possible. I like to turn the doona inside out and match the bottom corners of the cover with the bottom of the duvet. Then I bring the cover-up over the duvet, turning it the right way as I go. Pro Tip: For a polished look, consider folding down the top of the duvet or comforter about a third of the way to reveal the crisp white bedding beneath. With this method, the cushions sit on the base sheet. Step 11: Perfect Pillow Presentation Many people often sleep on different-sized pillows or different-sized pillows than their partner, which is to be expected. However, when it comes to styling your home, avoid mismatched sizes and colours for a cohesive look. Instead, consider purchasing pillows exclusively for display purposes. Opt for 2 matching pillow covers that coordinate with your sheets and an additional 2 matching pillow covers for your duvet cover. Pro Tip: If you don't require new pillows for your own use, consider purchasing the more budget-friendly options available. I frequently opt for economical pillows from retailers like KMart or Target. Personally, I favour the ones that come individually packaged in plastic wrapping. This way, I can keep them in their original packaging when in use, ensuring they remain plump and full when inserted into the pillowcase. You'll find pillows at KMart and Target ranging from $5.40 to $25.00, providing a cost-effective solution for your needs. Step 12: Elevate the Look with a Few European Pillows To introduce an extra touch of sophistication, contemplate incorporating European pillows into your bedding arrangement, especially if your bed lacks a headboard or is a super king size. Be discerning in your choice, as some European pillows may lack sufficient padding to rest plumply on the bed. Pro Tip: Explore the choices at Ikea, where you can find polyester European pillows priced at $19 and feather European pillows at $32 each. While both options are acceptable, I favour feather pillows' plumpness, especially for use after the sale. Step 13: Add some Colourful Cushions Cushions play an integral role in unifying the overall appearance of the bed. When picking cushion colours, opt for serene, sophisticated, and premium shades that exude quality and refinement. Preferred colours encompass deep blues, rich burnt oranges, and muted greens. Avoid colours like vivid pinks, bright reds, solid purples and fluro yellows in the primary bedroom unless the decor scheme calls explicitly for them. Research current trends in bed styling to stay in sync, but choose what best complements the room. Pro Tip: When choosing colours for any room, begin with the existing colour palette and select shades that match or harmonise. Additionally, draw inspiration from the colours present in the outdoor surroundings for your cushion colours and textures. This establishes a connection between indoors and out and ensures that the chosen colours are pleasing, as they reflect the natural colours we encounter daily in nature, which are often safe and universally appealing choices. Step 14: Add the Finishing Touch with a Throw Consider a throw rug at the end of the bed or folding a blanket or coverlet over the bed's length, with a throw rug draped over the corner. It's incredible how this extra step can complete the look of the bed and balance everything properly. Step 15: Stand Back to Assess Your Work After completing the previous steps, stand back and assess your work meticulously. Ensure everything is symmetrical and evenly spaced, creating a sense of balance and order. Remember, the details matter, and a well-prepared bedroom can make your property stand out in a competitive market. By following these steps to make your bed look photo-ready, you can create an inviting and comfortable space that resonates with potential buyers or guests. If you want more information about how to present your property for sale, check out our other blogs or get in touch with us. We'd love to hear from you. ...
Why home sellers should NOT pay for newspaper ads
The Traditional Role of Local Newspapers in Real Estate Advertising Over the years, local newspapers have connected sellers, buyers, and real estate professionals. In many communities, the weekly or monthly real estate section was the go-to source for anyone buying or selling a property. Real estate agents used to advertise their listings in these publications with the aim of helping prospective buyers find their new homes. The Shift in Real Estate Advertising Trends However, with technological advancements and the rise of online platforms like realestate.com.au, domain.com, and homely.com, there has been a significant shift in how people search for real estate. Nowadays, most potential buyers turn to the internet to browse listings, view photos, and gather property information. Consequently, the role of local newspapers in facilitating direct property sales has diminished. Reevaluating the Purpose of Newspaper Real Estate Advertising So, if newspapers are no longer the primary means of connecting houses to buyers, what is their current purpose, and who truly benefits from newspaper real estate advertising? These advertisements, often featuring the agency's logo, the agent's portrait, and a brand message, have evolved from being the primary means of connecting buyers with properties to becoming a strategic tool for agents to promote themselves. The more properties an agent showcases in the newspaper, the more they strengthen their position as the preferred choice within the local community. The Evolution of Real Estate Agent Advertising While there's nothing inherently wrong with agents advertising their businesses, concerns arise when they use the seller's funds to promote their brand, all while emphasizing their role in attracting buyers. If property ads primarily target home sellers, are vendors truly paying to promote their homes to buyers or promoting their chosen agency to future sellers? We believe that the purpose of advertising real estate in local newspapers has shifted from directly connecting buyers with properties to a way for real estate agents to enhance their own brands. Vendor-Paid Ads: Who Should Cover the Expenses? Traditionally, it has been common practice for home sellers to pay for their property advertisements in newspapers. While vendor-paid newspaper ads remain prevalent in many markets, the changing dynamics of real estate advertising suggest that it might be time for agents to bear the cost. If the primary purpose of these ads is to market the agents themselves, it's argued that agents should shoulder the expense. After all, they are using the newspaper as a platform to boost their brand and visibility. Making Informed Choices as a Homeowner Many sellers might prefer allocating their resources to more effective marketing options that will likely yield a higher return on investment. Therefore, when selecting an agent to sell your home, it's important to consider if the advertising components primarily benefit you as the homeowner or primarily serve the agent's interests. At Frost Real Estate, we haven't used newspaper advertising to sell properties for years. Our focus is always on what's in the best interest of the home seller. If we ever choose to advertise our brand by showcasing homes that are 'for sale,' 'under offer,' or 'sold,' we will do so at our expense. ...
Private tours vs open homes
Open house inspections have long been considered the standard approach for showcasing properties to potential buyers. While they may appear attractive on the surface, a closer examination reveals that these open events often serve the interests of real estate agents more than the home sellers. First, let’s clarify the distinction between these two types of property inspections: Open for Inspections: These are publicly advertised events where a property is open to the general public during a specified time slot, typically lasting 15 to 30 minutes. Anyone, whether genuinely interested in buying or merely curious, can attend these mass viewings. Private Inspections: These are personalized property viewings scheduled at a time convenient for the buyer, seller, and real estate agent. Private inspections are tailored to individual buyers who have expressed genuine interest in the property. Let's delve deeper into why private inspections can be a preferable choice for those looking to sell their homes: Control Over Access Open Houses: At open house events, agents may welcome not only serious buyers but also nosy neighbours or curious observers. Your property is displayed to a diverse crowd, and it can be challenging for the agent to distinguish between those genuinely interested in purchasing and others with alternative motives. Private Inspections: Private inspections are tailor-made to ensure that only individuals genuinely interested in your property visit. This means no more prying eyes or uninvited guests. You have the assurance that every visitor is a potential buyer. Extended Viewing Time Open Houses: Open house events are often held twice a week initially and once a week later for 15-30 minutes each. With many houses on their books to show to buyers, this can be the most efficient way for agents to show as many houses to as many buyers as they can in a given week. It's worth considering whether dedicating just one or two 15-30 minute time slots each week truly aligns with the needs of someone committed to selling your home. Private Inspections: Private inspections enable buyers to explore the property at their own pace, sometimes taking up to an hour to fully view a larger home. This can require additional time for the agent, especially if multiple people want to see the property. Flexibility in Scheduling Open Houses: Open house events are typically scheduled according to a fixed routine – twice a week initially and once a week later for 15-30 minutes each. This tight time frame often causes buyers to rush through properties, especially when the open time coincides with other open houses. This approach may also exclude buyers who cannot come at the given time due to other commitments. Private Inspections: Private inspections offer the flexibility of scheduling appointments that suit the convenience of both you as the seller and the prospective buyer. Agent's Undivided Attention Open Houses: During open house events, agents are often stationed at the entrance, limiting their ability to engage with potential buyers as they explore your property. This can result in missed opportunities to address questions or provide additional information to buyers as their questions arise. Private Inspections: In a private inspection, the real estate agent focuses solely on the potential buyer. This provides a personalized experience, a deeper understanding of the buyer's preferences, and the opportunity to address their inquiries during the tour. Impartial Buyer Impressions Open Houses: Open house inspections allow multiple visitors to influence other buyers' perceptions. Savvy buyers might strategically point out flaws in your property to discourage their competition, potentially affecting the perceived value of your home. Private Inspections: Private inspections promote impartial assessments. Buyers can form their opinions without external influences, leading to more objective judgments and potentially higher offers. Privacy and Intimacy Open Houses: Open house attendees often feel uncomfortable viewing the home along with other potential buyers. It can be off-putting to be observed by strangers, making it challenging for them to inspect the property. Private Inspections: Private inspections offer an environment of privacy. Potential buyers can explore your property at their own pace, envision themselves living there, and establish a more personal connection with the space. Direct Interaction and Accurate Feedback Open Houses: After an open house event, agents provide home sellers with visitor numbers. However, this data doesn't offer a precise measure of genuine interest. Further to this, some provided contact information may be inaccurate, making follow-up complex. Private Inspections: In a private inspection, agents directly interact with potential buyers, enabling them to assess the level of interest and their intentions going forward. This leads to a more accurate understanding of buyer intent. Networking and Cross-Selling Opportunities Open Houses: Open house events can attract a diverse crowd, including those not currently in the market to buy but potentially seeking assistance in selling their own properties. This presents opportunities for agents to discuss their services as listing agents to people they would not have otherwise met. Private Inspections: In contrast, private inspections maintain a sharper focus on genuine buyers, ensuring that those who visit are sincerely interested in the property. While this approach might limit the networking opportunities and cross-selling potential for agents, it guarantees that your property receives the undivided attention it deserves without competing with alternative motives. Private inspections offer numerous advantages for home sellers over open home inspections. They provide a more personalized and effective approach to property viewings, promoting genuine interest and impartial assessments. This approach allows agents to maintain control over access, offers greater flexibility in scheduling and ensures that every visitor is genuinely interested in your property. It's a strategy designed with your best interests in mind and has the potential to achieve higher offers. With so many aspects of private inspections outweighing Open House Inspections, you might wonder why agents show properties to multiple parties simultaneously at all. At Frost Real Estate, we are specialists in private sales and believe they are one of the key reasons our home sellers achieve ...
The dangers of selling "off market"
Selling a home is a significant decision that often involves various complexities, and it's not uncommon for homeowners to want to seek the easiest and most convenient route. The illusion of 'ready buyers' One of the primary risks of selling your property off-market is the illusion of ready buyers. Some agents may approach you with the assurance that they have eager buyers lined up, just waiting for the perfect property. While this may sound appealing, it can often be a ploy to get you to sign with them. Agents have been known to use this tactic to secure listings, only to reveal later that the supposed buyers are no longer interested in your home. We are aware of agents who employ this strategy consistently during property appraisals. The familiar narrative that ensues typically follows a pattern. Homeowners believe they will secure a swift sale at a discounted price, only to discover that the outcome is quite different. In many cases, their properties are initially priced too high and end up lingering on the market for an extended period before eventually selling, often after substantial reductions in the asking price. When an agent who claims to have ready buyers eager to purchase your property comes knocking at your door, it's a tempting proposition. It sounds like a dream come true: no need for advertising or preparing your home for sale. However, as the saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. It's important to consider the dangers of choosing an agent who makes such promises and why it's essential to tread cautiously in such situations. The best way to sell: testing the market The best way to know you've achieved the highest and best offer in the market is to advertise your property to everyone who might be interested in considering it. In today's digital age, the most popular place for potential buyers to search for real estate is online portals. By listing your property online, you cast a wider net and ensure that your property is visible to a broad audience. Creating competition among buyers Another advantage of the traditional selling process is that it encourages competition among buyers. When multiple buyers express interest in your property, they are more likely to make competitive offers to secure the home for themselves. This competition can drive up the selling price and ensure that you get the best deal possible. You can't sell a secret for the highest price On the contrary, selling off-market often lacks the competitive edge that comes with traditional marketing. Without widespread advertising and exposure, potential buyers may remain unaware of your property's availability. Those who are introduced to your home might recognize their advantageous position and refrain from presenting their highest possible offers. In the rare event that an agent does secure a buyer interested in purchasing your home, you may never be entirely certain that you've obtained the highest and most favourable offer for your property. Dangers in choosing an agent who claims to have 'buyers' While the idea of a hassle-free, off-market sale might be enticing, it's crucial to approach such offers with caution. The best way to ensure you receive the highest and best offer for your property is to expose it to the widest possible audience through online listings and create competition among buyers. By doing so, you'll have a better chance of achieving your desired selling price and avoiding the pitfalls associated with off-market sales. Remember that choosing the right real estate agent with the right selling strategy is essential to protect your interests and maximize your property's value in today's market. ...
Styling your main bedroom
Bedrooms and especially main bedrooms are private spaces and it's uncommon for others to be invited into this personal area of your home. As a result, it's entirely natural for buyers to feel that they are intruding on someone else's privacy when they step into a bedroom. This underscores the importance of finding ways to ensure your bedrooms are presented in such a way that they are instead considered places of comfort. The Importance of Setting the Right Bedroom Atmosphere When walking into a high-quality BnB or a luxurious five-star hotel room, the attention to detail makes you feel welcome, and at ease. You could almost believe that no one else has ever slept in the bed and that it has been exclusively prepared for you. This level of care and thoughtfulness is precisely what you should aim for when presenting your bedroom to buyers. An inviting bedroom can make potential buyers feel like they belong in the space. Mastering the Art of Bed Making One of the critical methods for enhancing the overall appearance of any bedroom is by focusing on the way you make your beds. Below is a step-by-step guide you can use to create a bed poised for a professional photoshoot and inspections. Step 1: Start with a Level Base Begin by ensuring that the mattress is even and smooth. Step 2: Check the Bed Head and Bed End Ensure the bed head and end are clean and in good condition. Step 3: Clear Under-Bed Space Ensure nothing under the bed might be visible in photos or inspections. Step 4: Enhance the Bed Base To enhance the bed's presentation, address the bed base's appearance. Consider using a bed skirt or bed wrap if the base remains visible even with the duvet or comforter on the bed. For a budget-friendly option, you can use a fitted sheet. Bed skirts are available in a range of prices, from $18 to $150. Pro Tip: Ironing your chosen Manchester, including the bed skirt, can change its look dramatically. Another option is using a steam iron to remove wrinkles for a polished look. Step 5: Invest in Well-Fitting Bed Linens Invest in well-fitting bed linens, including a fitted bottom sheet and two matching pillowcases. Standard mattress depths typically range from 20 to 35 cm but can be as deep as 38 to 46 cm. Keep this in mind when choosing a bottom sheet, as its purpose is to wrap securely underneath the mattress and cover its sides entirely. Step 6: Top Sheets for Personal Use If you intend to sleep in the bed during the campaign and prefer to use a top sheet, be sure to select one that matches the other linens. Pro Tip: When buying new items, consider investing in higher-quality options, especially if you plan to use them beyond the sales campaign, perhaps in your new home. Just remember to prioritize styling your current home in line with the recommendations here rather than solely focusing on personal preferences. Pro Tip: Remember to wash your hands before handling the Manchester. If you want to be particularly careful, you might want to consider wearing some gloves to avoid oils passing on to the soft furnishings. Step 7: Opt for White Choose white linens to keep it simple yet stylish. That's what people expect when they are staying at a top-notch vocation. If you would prefer to use coloured sheets, choose neutral tones that seamlessly blend with the room's decor. Pro Tip: You want buyers to be drenched in a sense of calm when viewing your room and not distracted by any particular item you have chosen. Step 8: Select a Well-Fluffed Duvet or Doona Choose a well-fluffed duvet, doona, or quilt to cover the mattress smoothly. Ensure it hangs evenly on both sides and completely covers the bottom sheet. You can find king-size options at retailers like KMart, Spotlight, and Target for around $30. Step 9: Opt for a Versatile White Duvet Cover When it comes to selecting a duvet cover, white often emerges as the most convenient and practical choice due to its inherent versatility and timeless charm. However, it's essential to recognize that there are various shades of white, each with its unique texture. When choosing the style of your white duvet cover for your bed(s), exercise caution by considering the shade and texture. White is a reliable option that effortlessly infuses brightness into your room, serving as an excellent foundation for further enhancements. Moreover, opting for a white duvet cover simplifies the process of coordinating cushions and throw rugs with your room's decor. Pro Tip: Alternatively, if you feel confident about using a coloured or patterned cover, remember that specific patterns might appear distorted in photos and could potentially diminish the room's overall sense of calm. Step 10: Dressing your Duvet There are many methods people use for putting a cover on a duvet. Do what's most effortless for you while keeping the cover as wrinkle-free as possible. I like to turn the doona inside out and match the bottom corners of the cover with the bottom of the duvet. Then I bring the cover-up over the duvet, turning it the right way as I go. Pro Tip: For a polished look, consider folding down the top of the duvet or comforter about a third of the way to reveal the crisp white bedding beneath. With this method, the cushions sit on the base sheet. Step 11: Perfect Pillow Presentation Many people often sleep on different-sized pillows or different-sized pillows than their partner, which is to be expected. However, when it comes to styling your home, avoid mismatched sizes and colours for a cohesive look. Instead, consider purchasing pillows exclusively for display purposes. Opt for 2 matching pillow covers that coordinate with your sheets and an additional 2 matching pillow covers for your duvet cover. Pro Tip: If you don't require new pillows for your own use, consider purchasing the more budget-friendly options available. I frequently opt for economical pillows from retailers like KMart or Target. Personally, I favour the ones that come individually packaged in plastic wrapping. This way, I can keep them in their original packaging when in use, ensuring they remain plump and full when inserted into the pillowcase. You'll find pillows at KMart and Target ranging from $5.40 to $25.00, providing a cost-effective solution for your needs. Step 12: Elevate the Look with a Few European Pillows To introduce an extra touch of sophistication, contemplate incorporating European pillows into your bedding arrangement, especially if your bed lacks a headboard or is a super king size. Be discerning in your choice, as some European pillows may lack sufficient padding to rest plumply on the bed. Pro Tip: Explore the choices at Ikea, where you can find polyester European pillows priced at $19 and feather European pillows at $32 each. While both options are acceptable, I favour feather pillows' plumpness, especially for use after the sale. Step 13: Add some Colourful Cushions Cushions play an integral role in unifying the overall appearance of the bed. When picking cushion colours, opt for serene, sophisticated, and premium shades that exude quality and refinement. Preferred colours encompass deep blues, rich burnt oranges, and muted greens. Avoid colours like vivid pinks, bright reds, solid purples and fluro yellows in the primary bedroom unless the decor scheme calls explicitly for them. Research current trends in bed styling to stay in sync, but choose what best complements the room. Pro Tip: When choosing colours for any room, begin with the existing colour palette and select shades that match or harmonise. Additionally, draw inspiration from the colours present in the outdoor surroundings for your cushion colours and textures. This establishes a connection between indoors and out and ensures that the chosen colours are pleasing, as they reflect the natural colours we encounter daily in nature, which are often safe and universally appealing choices. Step 14: Add the Finishing Touch with a Throw Consider a throw rug at the end of the bed or folding a blanket or coverlet over the bed's length, with a throw rug draped over the corner. It's incredible how this extra step can complete the look of the bed and balance everything properly. Step 15: Stand Back to Assess Your Work After completing the previous steps, stand back and assess your work meticulously. Ensure everything is symmetrical and evenly spaced, creating a sense of balance and order. Remember, the details matter, and a well-prepared bedroom can make your property stand out in a competitive market. By following these steps to make your bed look photo-ready, you can create an inviting and comfortable space that resonates with potential buyers or guests. If you want more information about how to present your property for sale, check out our other blogs or get in touch with us. We'd love to hear from you. ...
Why home sellers should NOT pay for newspaper ads
The Traditional Role of Local Newspapers in Real Estate Advertising Over the years, local newspapers have connected sellers, buyers, and real estate professionals. In many communities, the weekly or monthly real estate section was the go-to source for anyone buying or selling a property. Real estate agents used to advertise their listings in these publications with the aim of helping prospective buyers find their new homes. The Shift in Real Estate Advertising Trends However, with technological advancements and the rise of online platforms like realestate.com.au, domain.com, and homely.com, there has been a significant shift in how people search for real estate. Nowadays, most potential buyers turn to the internet to browse listings, view photos, and gather property information. Consequently, the role of local newspapers in facilitating direct property sales has diminished. Reevaluating the Purpose of Newspaper Real Estate Advertising So, if newspapers are no longer the primary means of connecting houses to buyers, what is their current purpose, and who truly benefits from newspaper real estate advertising? These advertisements, often featuring the agency's logo, the agent's portrait, and a brand message, have evolved from being the primary means of connecting buyers with properties to becoming a strategic tool for agents to promote themselves. The more properties an agent showcases in the newspaper, the more they strengthen their position as the preferred choice within the local community. The Evolution of Real Estate Agent Advertising While there's nothing inherently wrong with agents advertising their businesses, concerns arise when they use the seller's funds to promote their brand, all while emphasizing their role in attracting buyers. If property ads primarily target home sellers, are vendors truly paying to promote their homes to buyers or promoting their chosen agency to future sellers? We believe that the purpose of advertising real estate in local newspapers has shifted from directly connecting buyers with properties to a way for real estate agents to enhance their own brands. Vendor-Paid Ads: Who Should Cover the Expenses? Traditionally, it has been common practice for home sellers to pay for their property advertisements in newspapers. While vendor-paid newspaper ads remain prevalent in many markets, the changing dynamics of real estate advertising suggest that it might be time for agents to bear the cost. If the primary purpose of these ads is to market the agents themselves, it's argued that agents should shoulder the expense. After all, they are using the newspaper as a platform to boost their brand and visibility. Making Informed Choices as a Homeowner Many sellers might prefer allocating their resources to more effective marketing options that will likely yield a higher return on investment. Therefore, when selecting an agent to sell your home, it's important to consider if the advertising components primarily benefit you as the homeowner or primarily serve the agent's interests. At Frost Real Estate, we haven't used newspaper advertising to sell properties for years. Our focus is always on what's in the best interest of the home seller. If we ever choose to advertise our brand by showcasing homes that are 'for sale,' 'under offer,' or 'sold,' we will do so at our expense. ...
Private tours vs open homes
Open house inspections have long been considered the standard approach for showcasing properties to potential buyers. While they may appear attractive on the surface, a closer examination reveals that these open events often serve the interests of real estate agents more than the home sellers. First, let’s clarify the distinction between these two types of property inspections: Open for Inspections: These are publicly advertised events where a property is open to the general public during a specified time slot, typically lasting 15 to 30 minutes. Anyone, whether genuinely interested in buying or merely curious, can attend these mass viewings. Private Inspections: These are personalized property viewings scheduled at a time convenient for the buyer, seller, and real estate agent. Private inspections are tailored to individual buyers who have expressed genuine interest in the property. Let's delve deeper into why private inspections can be a preferable choice for those looking to sell their homes: Control Over Access Open Houses: At open house events, agents may welcome not only serious buyers but also nosy neighbours or curious observers. Your property is displayed to a diverse crowd, and it can be challenging for the agent to distinguish between those genuinely interested in purchasing and others with alternative motives. Private Inspections: Private inspections are tailor-made to ensure that only individuals genuinely interested in your property visit. This means no more prying eyes or uninvited guests. You have the assurance that every visitor is a potential buyer. Extended Viewing Time Open Houses: Open house events are often held twice a week initially and once a week later for 15-30 minutes each. With many houses on their books to show to buyers, this can be the most efficient way for agents to show as many houses to as many buyers as they can in a given week. It's worth considering whether dedicating just one or two 15-30 minute time slots each week truly aligns with the needs of someone committed to selling your home. Private Inspections: Private inspections enable buyers to explore the property at their own pace, sometimes taking up to an hour to fully view a larger home. This can require additional time for the agent, especially if multiple people want to see the property. Flexibility in Scheduling Open Houses: Open house events are typically scheduled according to a fixed routine – twice a week initially and once a week later for 15-30 minutes each. This tight time frame often causes buyers to rush through properties, especially when the open time coincides with other open houses. This approach may also exclude buyers who cannot come at the given time due to other commitments. Private Inspections: Private inspections offer the flexibility of scheduling appointments that suit the convenience of both you as the seller and the prospective buyer. Agent's Undivided Attention Open Houses: During open house events, agents are often stationed at the entrance, limiting their ability to engage with potential buyers as they explore your property. This can result in missed opportunities to address questions or provide additional information to buyers as their questions arise. Private Inspections: In a private inspection, the real estate agent focuses solely on the potential buyer. This provides a personalized experience, a deeper understanding of the buyer's preferences, and the opportunity to address their inquiries during the tour. Impartial Buyer Impressions Open Houses: Open house inspections allow multiple visitors to influence other buyers' perceptions. Savvy buyers might strategically point out flaws in your property to discourage their competition, potentially affecting the perceived value of your home. Private Inspections: Private inspections promote impartial assessments. Buyers can form their opinions without external influences, leading to more objective judgments and potentially higher offers. Privacy and Intimacy Open Houses: Open house attendees often feel uncomfortable viewing the home along with other potential buyers. It can be off-putting to be observed by strangers, making it challenging for them to inspect the property. Private Inspections: Private inspections offer an environment of privacy. Potential buyers can explore your property at their own pace, envision themselves living there, and establish a more personal connection with the space. Direct Interaction and Accurate Feedback Open Houses: After an open house event, agents provide home sellers with visitor numbers. However, this data doesn't offer a precise measure of genuine interest. Further to this, some provided contact information may be inaccurate, making follow-up complex. Private Inspections: In a private inspection, agents directly interact with potential buyers, enabling them to assess the level of interest and their intentions going forward. This leads to a more accurate understanding of buyer intent. Networking and Cross-Selling Opportunities Open Houses: Open house events can attract a diverse crowd, including those not currently in the market to buy but potentially seeking assistance in selling their own properties. This presents opportunities for agents to discuss their services as listing agents to people they would not have otherwise met. Private Inspections: In contrast, private inspections maintain a sharper focus on genuine buyers, ensuring that those who visit are sincerely interested in the property. While this approach might limit the networking opportunities and cross-selling potential for agents, it guarantees that your property receives the undivided attention it deserves without competing with alternative motives. Private inspections offer numerous advantages for home sellers over open home inspections. They provide a more personalized and effective approach to property viewings, promoting genuine interest and impartial assessments. This approach allows agents to maintain control over access, offers greater flexibility in scheduling and ensures that every visitor is genuinely interested in your property. It's a strategy designed with your best interests in mind and has the potential to achieve higher offers. With so many aspects of private inspections outweighing Open House Inspections, you might wonder why agents show properties to multiple parties simultaneously at all. At Frost Real Estate, we are specialists in private sales and believe they are one of the key reasons our home sellers achieve ...
The dangers of selling "off market"
Selling a home is a significant decision that often involves various complexities, and it's not uncommon for homeowners to want to seek the easiest and most convenient route. The illusion of 'ready buyers' One of the primary risks of selling your property off-market is the illusion of ready buyers. Some agents may approach you with the assurance that they have eager buyers lined up, just waiting for the perfect property. While this may sound appealing, it can often be a ploy to get you to sign with them. Agents have been known to use this tactic to secure listings, only to reveal later that the supposed buyers are no longer interested in your home. We are aware of agents who employ this strategy consistently during property appraisals. The familiar narrative that ensues typically follows a pattern. Homeowners believe they will secure a swift sale at a discounted price, only to discover that the outcome is quite different. In many cases, their properties are initially priced too high and end up lingering on the market for an extended period before eventually selling, often after substantial reductions in the asking price. When an agent who claims to have ready buyers eager to purchase your property comes knocking at your door, it's a tempting proposition. It sounds like a dream come true: no need for advertising or preparing your home for sale. However, as the saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. It's important to consider the dangers of choosing an agent who makes such promises and why it's essential to tread cautiously in such situations. The best way to sell: testing the market The best way to know you've achieved the highest and best offer in the market is to advertise your property to everyone who might be interested in considering it. In today's digital age, the most popular place for potential buyers to search for real estate is online portals. By listing your property online, you cast a wider net and ensure that your property is visible to a broad audience. Creating competition among buyers Another advantage of the traditional selling process is that it encourages competition among buyers. When multiple buyers express interest in your property, they are more likely to make competitive offers to secure the home for themselves. This competition can drive up the selling price and ensure that you get the best deal possible. You can't sell a secret for the highest price On the contrary, selling off-market often lacks the competitive edge that comes with traditional marketing. Without widespread advertising and exposure, potential buyers may remain unaware of your property's availability. Those who are introduced to your home might recognize their advantageous position and refrain from presenting their highest possible offers. In the rare event that an agent does secure a buyer interested in purchasing your home, you may never be entirely certain that you've obtained the highest and most favourable offer for your property. Dangers in choosing an agent who claims to have 'buyers' While the idea of a hassle-free, off-market sale might be enticing, it's crucial to approach such offers with caution. The best way to ensure you receive the highest and best offer for your property is to expose it to the widest possible audience through online listings and create competition among buyers. By doing so, you'll have a better chance of achieving your desired selling price and avoiding the pitfalls associated with off-market sales. Remember that choosing the right real estate agent with the right selling strategy is essential to protect your interests and maximize your property's value in today's market. ...