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Why Staging Your Home Before Listing Makes a Big Difference

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter—a lot. Most buyers start their search online, and they make snap judgments based on photos. That means how your home looks in those first few seconds can make or break their interest. Staging helps your home stand out—for the right reasons.

It’s not just about decorating. Staging is a strategic way to highlight your home’s best features, create a sense of space and flow, and help buyers picture themselves living there. Whether it’s a small condo or a large family home, staging helps tell the story of how the space can work.

Well-staged homes also tend to photograph better. That means your listing gets more attention online, leading to more showings—and often, more serious interest. A home that shows well right out of the gate builds momentum, which can lead to quicker offers and, in some cases, even a higher sale price.

And staging doesn’t have to mean a full overhaul. In Vancouver’s market, even a few small updates—like decluttering, fresh paint, or rearranging furniture—can make a big impact. It’s not about making the space look perfect, but about making it feel fresh, neutral, and welcoming. Staging can also help tricky layouts make sense, or help smaller rooms feel more functional and spacious.

The bottom line? Buyers are making fast decisions and forming opinions in seconds. Staging gives you a real edge and has become a key part of a successful selling strategy—not just a nice-to-have.

Thinking about selling and wondering where to start? Let’s chat about a personalized staging plan to get your home market-ready—and looking its best.

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I have sold a property at 317 12871 RAILWAY AVE in Richmond

I have sold a property at 317 12871 RAILWAY AVE in Richmond on Mar 3, 2025. See details here

Welcome to WESTWATER VIEWS, a highly sought-after corner PENTHOUSE suite in the heart of Steveston! This spacious 2-bed, 2-bath home offers over 1,200 sqft of bright, open-concept living. Vaulted ceilings and expansive east-facing picture windows fill the space with natural light, while the balcony provides stunning views of the park, trees, and mountains. Large primary bedroom features a beautifully renovated ensuite, and the second bedroom and full bath offer plenty of flexibility. A walk-in laundry room with extra storage, 2 parking stalls, and 2 storage lockers add convenience. Perfect for those seeking a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle, this home offers direct access to the scenic boardwalk, waterfront, and historic Steveston Village!

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Open House. Open House on Sunday, March 16, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Please visit our Open House at 317 12871 RAILWAY AVE in Richmond. See details here

Open House on Sunday, March 16, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Welcome to WESTWATER VIEWS, a highly sought-after corner PENTHOUSE suite in the heart of Steveston! This spacious 2-bed, 2-bath home offers over 1,200 sqft of bright, open-concept living. Vaulted ceilings and expansive east-facing picture windows fill the space with natural light, while the balcony provides stunning views of the park, trees, and mountains. Large primary bedroom features a beautifully renovated ensuite, and the second bedroom and full bath offer plenty of flexibility. A walk-in laundry room with extra storage, 2 parking stalls, and 2 storage lockers add convenience. Perfect for those seeking a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle, this home offers direct access to the scenic boardwalk, waterfront, and historic Steveston Village! OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, March 16th, 2pm to 4pm.

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Open House. Open House on Sunday, March 9, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Please visit our Open House at 317 12871 RAILWAY AVE in Richmond. See details here

Open House on Sunday, March 9, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Welcome to WESTWATER VIEWS, a highly sought-after corner PENTHOUSE suite in the heart of Steveston! This spacious 2-bed, 2-bath home offers over 1,200 sqft of bright, open-concept living. Vaulted ceilings and expansive east-facing picture windows fill the space with natural light, while the balcony provides stunning views of the park, trees, and mountains. Large primary bedroom features a beautifully renovated ensuite, and the second bedroom and full bath offer plenty of flexibility. A walk-in laundry room with extra storage, 2 parking stalls, and 2 storage lockers add convenience. Perfect for those seeking a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle, this home offers direct access to the scenic boardwalk, waterfront, and historic Steveston Village! OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, March 9th, 2pm to 4pm.

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Open House. Open House on Saturday, February 22, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Please visit our Open House at 317 12871 RAILWAY AVE in Richmond. See details here

Open House on Saturday, February 22, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Welcome to WESTWATER VIEWS, a highly sought-after corner PENTHOUSE suite in the heart of Steveston! This spacious 2-bed, 2-bath home offers over 1,200 sqft of bright, open-concept living. Vaulted ceilings and expansive east-facing picture windows fill the space with natural light, while the balcony provides stunning views of the park, trees, and mountains. Large primary bedroom features a beautifully renovated ensuite, and the second bedroom and full bath offer plenty of flexibility. A walk-in laundry room with extra storage, 2 parking stalls, and 2 storage lockers add convenience. Perfect for those seeking a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle, this home offers direct access to the scenic boardwalk, waterfront, and historic Steveston Village! OPEN: Sat & Sun, Feb 22 & 23, 2-4 pm.

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Open House. Open House on Sunday, February 23, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Please visit our Open House at 317 12871 RAILWAY AVE in Richmond. See details here

Open House on Sunday, February 23, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Welcome to WESTWATER VIEWS, a highly sought-after corner PENTHOUSE suite in the heart of Steveston! This spacious 2-bed, 2-bath home offers over 1,200 sqft of bright, open-concept living. Vaulted ceilings and expansive east-facing picture windows fill the space with natural light, while the balcony provides stunning views of the park, trees, and mountains. Large primary bedroom features a beautifully renovated ensuite, and the second bedroom and full bath offer plenty of flexibility. A walk-in laundry room with extra storage, 2 parking stalls, and 2 storage lockers add convenience. Perfect for those seeking a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle, this home offers direct access to the scenic boardwalk, waterfront, and historic Steveston Village! OPEN: Sat & Sun, Feb 22 & 23, 2-4 pm.

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New property listed in Steveston South, Richmond

I have listed a new property at 317 12871 RAILWAY AVE in Richmond. See details here

Welcome to WESTWATER VIEWS, a highly sought-after corner PENTHOUSE suite in the heart of Steveston! This spacious 2-bed, 2-bath home offers over 1,200 sqft of bright, open-concept living. Vaulted ceilings and expansive east-facing picture windows fill the space with natural light, while the balcony provides stunning views of the park, trees, and mountains. Large primary bedroom features a beautifully renovated ensuite, and the second bedroom and full bath offer plenty of flexibility. A walk-in laundry room with extra storage, 2 parking stalls, and 2 storage lockers add convenience. Perfect for those seeking a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle, this home offers direct access to the scenic boardwalk, waterfront, and historic Steveston Village! OPEN: Sat & Sun, Feb 22 & 23, 2-4 pm.

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Selling Your Home? Here’s How I’ll Help You Succeed

Selling your home is a big step, and I’m here to make the process as smooth and successful as possible. Before we list, I’ll conduct a thorough walkthrough to identify simple ways to boost your home’s value, like minor repairs, fresh paint, or improving curb appeal. Together, we’ll prepare your property to shine in a competitive market, supported by a well-researched pricing strategy that attracts serious buyers while maximizing your return. 

Presentation is everything, which is why I partner with professional stagers and photographers to make your home irresistible. Staging ensures every room feels inviting and functional, while high-quality photos and virtual tours help your property stand out online. These efforts, combined with strategic marketing, ensure your home gets the attention it deserves, whether it’s a seller’s or buyer’s market. 

From pricing and marketing to negotiations and closing, I’ll guide you through every step of the selling process. My hands-on, proactive approach is tailored to your unique goals, ensuring you feel confident and informed throughout. If you’re ready to start your selling journey, let’s connect and make it a success!

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I have sold a property at 1874 W 7TH AVE in Vancouver

I have sold a property at 1874 W 7TH AVE in Vancouver on Jan 17, 2025. See details here

Rarely available 3-storey townhome in an exclusive 6-unit heritage conversion in the heart of Kitsilano! This 2-bed plus den, 2.5-bath home blends modern comforts with timeless charm. Features include hardwood floors throughout the main living areas, newer stainless steel appliances, a cozy fireplace, and two private entrances—one leading to a peaceful, spacious front porch and the other on the ground level. Includes one secure parking stall and a storage locker. This home is ideally situated just a bike ride from the beach and steps from Kitsilano’s vibrant restaurants, upscale shopping, and amenities. Enjoy a relaxed beachside lifestyle with convenient access to downtown and the airport. This Kitsilano townhome is the one you've been waiting for!

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Open House. Open House on Sunday, January 19, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Please visit our Open House at 1874 W 7TH AVE in Vancouver. See details here

Open House on Sunday, January 19, 2025 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Rarely available 3-storey townhome in an exclusive 6-unit heritage conversion in the heart of Kitsilano! This 2-bed plus den, 2.5-bath home blends modern comforts with timeless charm. Features include hardwood floors throughout the main living areas, newer stainless steel appliances, a cozy fireplace, and two private entrances—one leading to a peaceful, spacious front porch and the other on the ground level. Includes one secure parking stall and a storage locker. This home is ideally situated just a bike ride from the beach and steps from Kitsilano’s vibrant restaurants, upscale shopping, and amenities. Enjoy a relaxed beachside lifestyle with convenient access to downtown and the airport. This Kitsilano townhome is the one you've been waiting for! OPEN HOUSE: Sun, Jan. 19 from 2pm to 4pm.

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Open House. Open House on Sunday, January 12, 2025 1:00PM - 3:00PM

Please visit our Open House at 1874 W 7TH AVE in Vancouver. See details here

Open House on Sunday, January 12, 2025 1:00PM - 3:00PM

Rarely available 3-storey townhome in an exclusive 6-unit heritage conversion in the heart of Kitsilano! This 2-bed plus den, 2.5-bath home blends modern comforts with timeless charm. Features include hardwood floors throughout the main living areas, newer stainless steel appliances, a cozy fireplace, and two private entrances—one leading to a peaceful, spacious front porch and the other on the ground level. Includes one secure parking stall and a storage locker. This home is ideally situated just a bike ride from the beach and steps from Kitsilano’s vibrant restaurants, upscale shopping, and amenities. Enjoy a relaxed beachside lifestyle with convenient access to downtown and the airport. This Kitsilano townhome is the one you've been waiting for! OPEN HOUSE: Sun, Jan. 12 from 1pm to 3pm.

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What to Expect in Greater Vancouver Real Estate in 2025

As we welcome the new year, I want to take a moment to wish you and your loved ones happiness, health, and success in 2025. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your real estate journey—it’s a privilege I don’t take lightly.

The real estate market in the Greater Vancouver area is always evolving, and 2025 promises to be an exciting year. Here's what we anticipate in the months ahead:

Stable Pricing With further interest rate cuts anticipated in the first half of 2025, housing prices are expected to stabilize as the market adapts to these changes. This could be welcome news for both buyers and sellers who have been navigating fluctuating conditions.

Inventory Growth An increase in new listings is projected, which could provide more opportunities for buyers to find the perfect home. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to enter the market, this could be your year.

Strong Demand The appeal of Greater Vancouver continues to attract buyers, particularly in sought-after neighborhoods and communities with excellent amenities. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant urban hubs or quieter suburban pockets, there’s something for everyone in our region.

Whether you're considering buying your first home, upgrading to a larger space, or selling your current property, now is a great time to strategize. The market trends are shaping up to offer excellent opportunities for savvy buyers and sellers alike.

If you’re curious about the value of your home, exploring new neighborhoods, or just want to discuss your real estate goals for 2025, I’d be happy to help. Let’s set up a time to chat— click the button below to book a call.

 https://michellebatkin.ca/contact.html

Here’s to a fantastic year ahead in real estate and beyond! Cheers to 2025 and all the opportunities it brings.

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