Baby Means Bigger Place

When Lisa and David Shoshan became parents, they realized that their townhouse would be snug for an expanding family. Now that son Felice is 1, they are more than ready to move on to a bigger place that is closer to Lisa's family.

After three months on the market without a single bite, they realize they need some expert guidance. That's where the Get It Sold team comes into play. Real estate agents, led by Mark Rutstein, and expert stager Sabrina Soto sign on to develop a plan that will really make this place shine for the open house. First order of business? The worn out façade. Also slated for change are the open main level, where toys and inappropriate furniture are taking over in the living room and adjoining dining room. The master bedroom will also get a facelift.

If a house isn't selling it's usually pricing or packaging, says real estate expert Mark Rutstein. In the Shoshans' case, the problem is definitely packaging. The living room is a prime example of poor packaging. The dark colors and crowded assortment of large, hand-me-down furniture makes the room look smaller than it is. The room is also littered with clutter and baby toys. Clutter eats up equity, so this space has got to be cleared. Same goes for the adjoining dining room (behind the rail). It's such a jumbled mess, it isn't clear whether it's a home office, dining area or nursery. When selling a house, every space needs to be defined clearly.