Why Turnkey Matters More Than Ever in Today’s Market

As an award-winning home stager, I’ve had the privilege of walking through hundreds of homes and helping sellers navigate one of the most important moments in their lives—preparing to sell. It’s a delicate balance of honoring a home’s history while strategically making it appeal to today's buyer. And in today’s real estate climate, one thing is clearer than ever: buyers want move-in ready.

Most buyers are juggling tight timelines, rising interest rates, and the stress of relocation. When they walk into a home that feels current, fresh, and complete, it takes a weight off their shoulders. In fact, they’re often willing to pay a premium for a home that doesn’t require a to-do list the day they get the keys.

These changes we recommend are NOT personal—they're PRACTICAL. Whether it’s replacing flooring, updating lighting, or repainting, any improvement you make can boost your home’s appeal. That said, if there are noticeable updates left undone, pricing your home accordingly is important. And here’s the key: buyers don’t just subtract the cost of the project—they often subtract more to account for the inconvenience, time, and effort required to do it themselves.

Homes that are thoughtfully updated and staged often receive stronger offers, faster. Why? Because the home looks—and feels—loved and ready. That emotional connection is powerful, and it’s what turns a showing into a sale.

In a market that’s become more selective, your home needs to stand out. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s presentation. And a little strategy can go a long way in helping your home shine.

If you're thinking about selling and wondering where to start, I’m here to help guide you through it. I believe every home should have a professional presale consultation to determine what you can do to maximize your profit and lessen the days on market. It's worth the effort and investment. Every home has the potential to become someone’s dream home—it just needs the right story. Let us help!

Warmly,

Ashley Tapley,

Founder, House Candy Home

International and National Award-Winning Home Stager www.housecandyhome.com