Property Market Flooded

with Desperate Sellers: How to Avoid Being Low-Balled

As property listings surge across Australia, sellers are grappling with heightened competition and the pressure of adjusting price expectations amidst rising interest rates. With the market becoming more saturated, Kellie Richardson, a respected interior designer and founder of Kurved by Design, advises sellers to step up their game to avoid being low-balled by opportunistic buyers.

The Shift from the COVID Boom

During the pandemic, the real estate boom allowed homes to sell within days, often without the need for staging or extensive marketing.

But the market has now changed. “Unlike the COVID real estate boom, where properties sold in a matter of days without any staging or marketing, simply listing your home is no longer enough,” says Richardson. “Sellers need to work harder to highlight the positives of their property and downplay the negatives. This often requires expertise to understand how to present a property in the best light.”

Failing to do so, she warns, can make sellers vulnerable to low-ball offers from buyers who may sense desperation and try to capitalize on the cluttered market.

Staging and Presentation are Essential

Richardson, who is also a Feng Shui expert, emphasizes that proper staging can drastically impact a sale price.

“Staging can lift the sale price of your home by hundreds of thousands of dollars if done well,” she explains. “It’s not just about placing pretty furniture around, but about emphasizing the positives of your home.”

For example, if your fooring is damaged, Richardson recommends using neutral-coloured rugs to cover stains, and strategically placing art or mirrors to hide blemishes on walls. By addressing these aesthetic challenges, you can make your home more appealing, allowing potential buyers to envision its potential.

“Buyers are more likely to make genuine offers if they see that the property has been well-prepared for sale. If you don’t make the effort, it signals to buyers that you either don’t care about the price or can’t afford to improve the property— both signals to lowballers,” she cautions.

Camoufage Imperfections with Plants

Large potted plants, vines, and shrubs are

For sellers on a tight budget, Richardson suggests using temporary fxes like appliance covers, peel-and-stick contact paper, or paint to refresh outdated kitchens or appliances. “Simple improvements another inexpensive way to conceal unsightly features around the home, such as air conditioning units or peeling exterior paint. Indoors, plants can distract from damaged walls or cracked tiles. “Simple, affordable greenery can dramatically change the mood and feel of a room,” says Richardson.

Temporary Updates for a Modern Look like updating the look of cabinets or using stainless steel adhesive panels can make an old kitchen appear new, adding thousands of dollars to a property’s value,” she explains. These efforts signal to buyers that the property is well-maintained and will make them more likely to offer a fair price.

Optimising Lighting and Ambience

Lighting plays a critical role in setting the tone for home viewings.

Richardson advises using soft, warm lighting to downplay less desirable areas, while bright lighting should be used to highlight well-maintained spaces.

“Replacing harsh overhead lights with softer lamps or bulbs can shift the focus away from faws,” she says.

Additionally, updating light fxtures or faucets with affordable modern options can create a fresh, inviting space without a hefty investment. Discount department stores or second-hand markets are great sources for fnding budget-friendly lighting and tapware upgrades.

Neutralise Bold Elements and Reorganise Spaces

Richardson advises sellers to neutralise bold wall colours or outdated wallpaper by repainting in neutral tones like white, which creates a sense of light and space. If certain spaces feel cluttered or awkward, repurposing them into functional areas like a small workspace or reading nook can show potential buyers the versatility of the space.

“Staging can solve these problems by reimagining the space with lighting, wall art, and simple furniture,” she says.

Make the Garden an Asset

First impressions matter, and curb appeal is key to attracting buyers.

Richardson recommends paying special attention to the garden by fertilizing the lawn, adding potted plants for colour, and placing focal points like attractive pots or new garden furniture.

“Some people even spray their lawns with lawn paint to green them up,” she notes, adding that these simple upgrades can make a huge difference in the buyer’s initial perception of the property.

Clean, Declutter, and Repair

A deep clean and decluttering are nonnegotiable for sellers.

Removing excess items, especially in utility areas like laundries or basements, can make these spaces feel larger and more inviting. Even temporary repairs, such as patching up cracks or covering damaged surfaces, can help downplay any visible maintenance issues that might otherwise drive down the offer price.

“Buyers look for signs that a property is wellmaintained,” Richardson says. “Visible issues will inevitably factor into their offers, so taking the time to address small repairs can make all the difference.”

Keep Emotions in Check

While it may be tempting for sellers to handle negotiations themselves, Richardson recommends leaving it to the professionals. “It’s important to keep your emotions in check when selling. Buyers can sense hesitation or desperation, so leave the negotiating to your agent.”

By following these strategies, sellers can not only make their property more appealing to buyers but also avoid the trap of accepting low-ball offers.

About Kurved by Design

Founded in 2016 by Kellie Richardson, Kurved by Design offers a range of home design services, including property staging, interior design, retail furniture, homewares, and property maintenance.

In 2020, the company earned the Global CEO Excellence Award for ‘Best Property Styling and Interior Design Business.’ Through her expertise, Richardson continues to help Melbourne homeowners navigate a competitive property market by offering innovative and affordable solutions to showcase their homes at their best.