Stephanie Sacco, a top-producing real estate agent in Oakland County, Michigan, has built a successful career despite starting out with a different goal in mind. We had the privilege of working with her on a recent listing and had the chance to learn as she shared her journey, insights on the market, and advice for new agents. Read along as she drops some valuable knowledge in this article!
With spring just around the corner, excitement simmers in the Metro Detroit real estate market. Top agent Stephanie Sacco predicts a vibrant and active season, mirroring the trends of recent years. While potential interest rate fluctuations could add an element of uncertainty, she believes the lack of available inventory will be the driving force, creating a seller’s market and fulfilling expectations for homeowners.
Key Factors Fueling the Busy Season:
- Limited Inventory: The primary driver of the busy market is the scarcity of available homes. This lack of supply creates a competitive environment where buyers are eager to find their dream homes, leading to strong demand and great ROI for sellers. But for sellers to get great offers and see a return on investment, preparation is key! You cannot skimp on this step.
- Resilient Buyer Demand: Despite potential interest rate increases, buyer interest remains strong. Individuals are motivated to find their dream homes and are willing to adjust their budgets accordingly.
- Seasonality: Spring and summer traditionally bring increased activity to the real estate market, further bolstering the busy season prediction.
Navigating the Market for Buyers and Sellers:
Whether you’re buying or selling in this dynamic market, Stephanie offers valuable advice:
For Sellers:
- Price your home competitively: While the market is strong, overpricing could deter buyers. Get a professional appraisal to determine a fair market value.
- Stage your home to increase appeal: A well-staged home creates a positive first impression and helps buyers envision themselves living there.
- Consider professional photography and videography: High-quality visuals can significantly enhance your listing and attract more potential buyers.
For Buyers:
- Act fast and decisively: With limited inventory, homes are likely to move quickly. Be prepared to make offers promptly and be flexible in your search criteria.
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage: This shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and strengthens your offer.
- Work with a knowledgeable agent: A skilled realtor can help you navigate the competitive market and find the right home.
Declutter Your Way to Success: Why First Impressions Matter When Selling Your Home
Selling your home can be an exciting journey, but maximizing your chances for a quick and profitable sale requires careful preparation. While there are many aspects to consider, decluttering stands out as the single most important step in prepping your home for the market.
Why is decluttering so crucial? Depersonalizing a space when selling can make or break a deal. It all boils down to emotional connection. Buyers don’t just want to see a house; they want to imagine themselves living in it, knowing it will work for their lifestyle. Clutter creates visual noise, making it difficult for potential buyers to envision their own furniture, belongings, and memories filling the space. A decluttered home creates a positive first impression, which can significantly impact buyer interest and willingness to offer.
Sacco likes to take it a step further when listing a house:
- Stage your home: Professional staging takes decluttering to the next level, creating a curated space that showcases the home’s best features and appeals to a wider range of buyers. It allows agents to do what they do best, prospect!
- Deep clean and make minor repairs: Ensure your home is spotless and address any cosmetic issues that could detract from its value.
- Neutralize your décor: Remove personal items and opt for neutral colors and furniture to allow buyers to envision their own style.
Remember, decluttering isn’t just about removing things; it’s about creating a space that resonates with potential buyers on an emotional level. By following Stephanie’s tips and investing in a decluttered and staged home, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and stress-free selling experience.
“Why I Choose Impact Home Staging Experts” – Stephanie Sacco
We had the opportunity to work with Stephanie on a recent listing of hers in Bloomfield Hills. The photos in this article are from this beautiful property! We love learning about our customers and their path they have taken to get where they are today. Here’s what she has to say:
Q: Stephanie, you’ve partnered with Impact Home Staging Experts on multiple occasions. What makes you choose them over other staging companies?
Stephanie: Communication and responsiveness are crucial in our industry, and Impact truly excels in both. I’m consistently impressed by their professionalism, clear communication, and willingness to go the extra mile. The feedback I receive from other agents and buyers about their work is always outstanding, highlighting their attention to detail and ability to create spaces that create an emotional connection with potential buyers.
Q: What qualities of Impact’s work do you appreciate the most?
Stephanie: Their ability to capture the potential of a home and transform it into a staged space that feels both authentic and aspirational is remarkable. The team understand how to curate spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and inviting. Their commitment to using proper scale of furniture and décor elevates the entire presentation, making the home stand out from the competition.
Q: Can you share a specific example of a positive experience you had with Impact?
Stephanie: Recently, I worked with them on staging a beautiful yet formal home. The team did an incredible job of showcasing the home’s unique character while creating a warm, functional, and fun atmosphere. Their staging choices perfectly complemented the existing architecture and layout, appealing the home’s potential to a wider range of buyers.
Q: Why would you recommend Impact Home Staging Experts to other agents and sellers?
Stephanie: If you’re looking for a staging company that prioritizes communication, excellence, and an understanding of the market, Impact Home Staging Experts is the perfect choice. Their commitment to creating spaces that truly connect with buyers is unmatched, and their dedication to exceeding expectations makes them a valuable partner in any real estate transaction.
From Stay-at-Home Mom to Top Broker: Q&A with Stephanie Sacco
Q: How did you get started in real estate?
A: I entered real estate in 2017, thinking it would offer flexibility while raising my six children. However, on the first day of my real estate class, I knew I wanted to be a Broker Owner of my own company. Over the past six years, I’ve achieved that goal and taken over Michigan Power Brokers.
Q: What are some valuable lessons you’ve learned?
A: Communication, teamwork, and time management are crucial. But flexibility in my case involves dedication – working 7 days a week, 18 hours a day to achieve my goals. I also find joy in mentoring new agents and helping them reach their dreams in real estate.
Q: Any advice for new agents?
A: It’s simple – answer your phone! In this competitive environment, it’s crucial to be proactive and visible. Success requires stepping outside your comfort zone. Remember, you hold the key to your own success. I cannot stress this enough, build a network of reliable vendors that will help you deliver value to your clients. Relationships matter.
Setting the Bar Higher: Stephanie Sacco’s Goals for 2024
In our recent interview with top Oakland County realtor Stephanie Sacco, we delved into various topics, from market predictions to the importance of staging. But what about her own aspirations? What drives her success and what goals has she set for herself in 2024?
Personal Branding with Purpose:
Stephanie’s primary focus for 2024 is elevating her personal brand. With over 17,000 realtors in Oakland County alone, standing out in a crowded field requires dedication and strategic thinking. Her goal is not just about individual recognition, but about amplifying her ability to serve her clients.
“I want to continue to grow my personal brand,” she explains, “but not just for the sake of self-promotion. It’s about building trust and establishing myself as a reliable resource for my clients. The more people know me and understand my values, the better I can connect them with their dream homes or help them sell with confidence.”
For Stephanie, success is measured not just by numbers, but by the positive impact she creates on her clients’ lives. Her commitment to exceptional customer service remains a cornerstone of her approach.
“It’s not just about closing deals,” she emphasizes. “It’s about guiding my clients through every step of the process, ensuring they feel informed, empowered, and supported. I want to continue to refine my client service experience, making it even more personalized and valuable for everyone I work with.”
Stephanie concludes with our interview with optimism and preparedness:
“While market predictions can change, one thing remains constant: the importance of working with a trusted real estate professional. With the right guidance and preparation, you can navigate the busy season and achieve your real estate goals, whether you’re buying or selling.”
Stephanie Sacco’s success story serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration in real estate. By recognizing and nurturing relationships with other professionals, she creates a win-win scenario for herself, her team, and most importantly, her clients. Looking for a realtor who values teamwork and collaboration? Contact Stephanie at 248-229-4523 or Stephanie@michiganpowerbrokers.com.