The allure of million dollar listings fill our living rooms through the onslaught of television programming, digital and print media. The fantasy of large properties of physical stature surrounded by lush landscapes, dashing interiors and golden iron gates of protection appeal to so many people. Despite the array of gorgeous options, it is typical for these properties to have a market shelf life of several months to a year or more in an environment that favors the buyer. The reasons that some of these beautiful properties remain on the market can encompass a combination of factors including location, architecture, interior design and the Broker or REALTOR’s marketing plan.
My client’s property is an oasis of peace, fun and privacy. It is nestled in a gated, family-friendly boutique development with access to the conveniences of a large metropolitan city as well as the quaint specialty elements that signify some of the country’s top suburban areas. Despite these positive external factors, my client knew that he needed guidance in establishing a design vision for the space including furniture, furnishings, decor, accessories, window treatments and other updates. The house has great assets such as an upscale Italian kitchen with identical cabinetry in other areas, a high-end, contemporary Italian sectional furniture, resort style lazy river pool with outdoor kitchen, fireplace and fire pit, miniature golf course and basketball court. The floor plan provides ample open space for a designer to create a cohesive, flowing style from room to room. Over the course of a few months, we strategically implemented a plan to create a house that he and his family loved and one that would translate well in the marketplace during the standard sales period of six to possibly 12 months. Well, his comfort level was abruptly interrupted by eight showings and two offers within a 48 hour period from the time the listing hit the market. The first offer was submitted within 24 hours of the active listing status. From my knowledge and others in the market, this pace sets a new record in the million dollar listing category.
The following is an overview of my design plan to his single level, 5,131 square foot custom property:
- created a design plan to include furniture style, shape and scale, color palette, accessories, and furnishings
- selected furniture, decor, chandelier and sconces for the dining room and foyer
- selected all of the decor for the 17 shelving units in the living room, as well as added an area rug to the space
- selected furniture and decor for the eat-in kitchen dining set, island stools and decor for the kitchen island and cabinets
- updated the game room built-in bar with countertops cabinetry to match the kitchen and hallway
- updated the media room with new paint, carpet, furniture, window treatments and art
- updated the master bedroom bathroom with accessories including a fun, modern black faux fur and acrylic bench
- selected the furniture for the outdoor patio area to create multiple seating areas
- added Hunter Douglas automated Pirouette and Silhouette window treatments throughout the house
- suggested a Control 4 smart home system
- selected all of the ceiling/light fans throughout the interiors
- selected high-end Italian porcelain tile and patterns to update the master bedroom and living room fireplaces
This success story is another example that showcases the critical importance of visual communication through exceptional and accurate interior design, photography, listing preparation and a Broker’s solid marketing plan.
Contact Yvette Craddock Designs for your interior design and staging needs in any market.
Interior design/styling by Yvette Craddock. Photography by Craig Root. Randy Courtney Broker/Owner Weichert, Realtors® – Courtney Valleywide.
