$25,000, Eight Offers, and a Sold Sign: The Power of Preparation

Would You Spend $25,000 to Guarantee Certainty in a Buyer’s Market?

On October 2nd, we met our client for a listing appointment at 21015 Honeycreeper Place in Leesburg, Virginia. After walking through the home, we outlined a clear strategy to elevate its value, appeal, and speed of sale.

Our estimate? About $25,000 worth of intentional upgrades—strategic, not cosmetic. Our client trusted the process and gave the green light. Then, we got to work.

The Investment That Paid Off

Here’s what that $25,000 covered:

Full interior paint of approximately 3,400 sq ft in Sherwin Williams Alabaster (walls, trim, ceilings, and doors) New backsplash installation and cabinet touch-ups Updated light fixtures — purchased and installed Junk removal and hauling Professional staging on the main level and primary bedroom New stair runner installation Removal of built-ins to open up space Pressure washing for fresh curb appeal Deep professional cleaning

While most sellers would be overwhelmed trying to coordinate all this, our client didn’t lift a finger.

Sherry Santmyer and I acted as full-service project managers, overseeing every detail — from contractor bids to final walkthroughs. All our client had to do was approve invoices.

We even jumped in personally — We installed the dining room light and spent five hours moving items and hauling debris to the dump. This is what hands-on service truly looks like.

The Pricing Strategy

Preparation is only half the equation. We also priced strategically — at true market value, with a time adjustment to reflect current buyer behavior and competition.

This is where many agents fall short. A thoughtful pricing strategy in a shifting market is what sparks activity and drives multiple offers.

The Results: Proof That Strategy Works

The results were undeniable:

8 offers

29 showings

130+ guests at the open house

Significantly over list price — with no contingencies

(We’ll reveal the final price once it closes)

This isn’t luck. It’s strategy, data, and execution.

Why It Matters

Wouldn’t you rather have eight offers in hand than sit on the market for weeks wondering why your home isn’t selling?

We’ve refined our process to make selling smarter, smoother, and more profitable. If you choose to skip the steps, that’s your choice — but ask yourself:

“How many homes have I sold this year?”

When you’re ready to listen to the experts, we’ll help you make your move with confidence.

Meet the Team Behind the Transformation

Chloe Powell of Hunt Country Sotheby's International Realty

Chloe Powell

Luxury Real Estate Advisor | Hunt Country Sotheby’s International Realty

With a background in behavioral neuroscience, Chloe brings a data-driven approach to real estate. Her cinematic marketing, luxury branding, and five-star client experience turn each listing into a launch.

Sherry Santmyer, REALTOR | Hunt Country Sotheby's International Realty

Sherry Santmyer

Realtor®, Loudoun Native, and Multi-Business Owner

With 10+ years of experience as a landscaper, Airbnb host, and storage facility owner, Sherry knows every angle of property value and presentation. Her hands-on expertise ensures every home looks its absolute best.

Together, we’ve closed over $30 million in sales this year across Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland. We don’t just list homes — we transform them.