Written By: Kavindra Watson, Owner + Principal Interior Designer of the KLW Design Studio and member of CCAR's Affiliate Committee.
In established neighborhoods, where homes often have character and history, assisting potential buyer clients to see beyond the surface can be uniquely challenging. While these homes might boast charming architectural details and a sense of community, they can also show signs of age, with outdated interiors or layouts that no longer meet modern buyers' expectations. This is where the expertise of an Interior Designer becomes a REALTOR’S® key advantage, helping to highlight the true potential of these homes and ultimately achieve faster, more profitable results.
The Challenges of Working in Established Neighborhoods
Established neighborhoods are often filled with homes that have been well-loved and lived in for decades. While this can add a sense of warmth and tradition, it can also mean that many properties need updates to appeal to today’s buyers. Outdated kitchens and bathrooms, closed-off floor plans, and worn-out finishes are common issues that can turn off potential buyers, even in desirable locations.
Moreover, buyers today are looking for homes that are move-in ready and reflect current design trends. They may be willing to pay a premium for a home that has been thoughtfully updated, but they might also pass over a property that requires too much work, even if it has great bones. Instead of viewing an outdated home as a drawback, you can turn it into an opportunity by providing your clients with the resource of an interior designer.
How an Interior Designer Can Add Value
Unlocking the Potential of Older Homes:
Interior designers have a trained eye for seeing beyond surface issues and envisioning what a home could become with the right updates. They can suggest changes that preserve the home’s character while modernizing its functionality, aligning the design with what potential buyers are seeking. For example, they might recommend opening a closed-off kitchen to create a more inviting, open-concept living space for a family-focused home, or updating fixtures and finishes to transform a dated bathroom into a luxurious master suite. This approach helps Realtors position homes to stand out in the market, turning an underwhelming space into one that feels tailor-made for its next owner.
Creating a Cohesive Vision:
Buyers are often overwhelmed by the thought of renovating an older home, especially when they can’t envision its potential. An interior designer can alleviate this concern by creating a cohesive design plan that clearly shows what the home could become with a few key updates. Using 3D photo-realistic renderings, designers can bring these ideas to life, allowing buyers to see the transformed space in vivid detail. This approach turns the home into a turnkey opportunity rather than a daunting project, helping potential buyers feel confident and excited about the possibilities. By presenting a clear, visually compelling vision, interior designers make it easier for buyers to imagine themselves living in a space, ultimately making the property more appealing and marketable.
Addressing Common Buyer Concerns:
Buyers often worry about the maintenance and hidden issues associated with older homes. An interior designer can ease these concerns by recommending updates that enhance the home’s efficiency and safety, such as energy-efficient windows, modern HVAC systems, and updated electrical and plumbing fixtures.
Additionally, interior designers can connect buyers with reputable contractors to ensure these improvements are made to the highest standards. By addressing potential issues upfront, Realtors can present the home as a well-maintained property that’s ready for its next chapter, making it more attractive to cautious buyers.
Collaborating with Interior Designers: A REALTORS® Key Advantage
For REALTORS®, collaborating with an interior designer offers a distinct advantage in the market. By offering clients access to professional design services, you can provide a comprehensive, value-added service that goes beyond the typical real estate transaction. This partnership not only enhances the appeal of the homes you’re assisting with but also positions you as a REALTOR® who is committed to delivering the best possible results for your clients.
The Bottom Line
Interior design goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that connect with potential buyers both functionally and emotionally. A thoughtfully remodeled home not only looks better but also lives better, with enhanced functionality, optimized lighting, and improved flow. For REALTORS®, this often results in higher perceived value and quicker resale.
In established neighborhoods, where homes combine charm with challenges, an interior designer can be crucial in achieving faster and more profitable outcomes. By unlocking the potential of older homes, creating a cohesive vision, and addressing buyer concerns, designers can transform these properties into must-have homes. For Realtors, this collaboration isn’t just about closing a deal—it’s about being a trusted advisor, helping clients maximize the value of their properties in a community they’ll cherish for years to come.