Installing the same drawer and cabinet pulls in kitchen and bathroom

[jeromedawg]

Hey all,

I'm considering adding pulls to the drawers and cabinets of the kitchen and was thinking of doing the same in the bathrooms - should I install the same pulls everywhere? Or just keep the ones I'm planning to do the kitchen different from the ones in the bathrooms? Was also curious if you put pulls on dummy drawer faces? Seems pointless but more for the aesthetic I guess. Or would it make sense to put a pull (or towel bar) to hang towels, etc? There's one dummy drawer in front of where the sink is so I was curious about that too

[zolotiyeruki]

I'm not an interior designer, but here are my thoughts:
1) I see nothing wrong with having different hardware in different room
2) Adding hardware to false fronts is entirely up to you.  There are also pull-outs you can install on those false fronts to add functionality.
3) Use hardware that won't snag on your clothes.  That means handles instead of knobs, and don't choose handles that have ends that stick out and can snag clothing.

[jeromedawg]

I'm not an interior designer, but here are my thoughts:
1) I see nothing wrong with having different hardware in different room
2) Adding hardware to false fronts is entirely up to you.  There are also pull-outs you can install on those false fronts to add functionality.
3) Use hardware that won't snag on your clothes.  That means handles instead of knobs, and don't choose handles that have ends that stick out and can snag clothing.

I feel like the oil rubbed bronze would be kind of weird in the bathrooms but not sure....

Was considering something like these at least for the kitchen drawers:


We have cabinets as well that I'm wondering about - I think knobs would make sense for the upper cabinets but not sure kind I would put on the lower cabinets (which are below the drawers)

[zolotiyeruki]

Knobs on upper cabinets are fine IMO, and I think it's fine if the lowers have different hardware (i.e. handles), if it's the same style and finish.  Again, though, I'm an engineer, not an interior designer. :)

For the bathrooms, if not oil-rubbed bronze, what are you considering?

[jeromedawg]

Knobs on upper cabinets are fine IMO, and I think it's fine if the lowers have different hardware (i.e. handles), if it's the same style and finish.  Again, though, I'm an engineer, not an interior designer. :)

For the bathrooms, if not oil-rubbed bronze, what are you considering?

Maybe a brushed nickel look or something? But for "less hassle" I can just order more of those oil-rubbed bronze pulls and install them on every drawer in the house, bathroom and kitchen, hahaha. It sounds like that would be fine. The cabinets in our bathroom are sort of an 'off-white' but still white nonetheless, although the bathroom faucets we have are all currently polished silver/shiny so that might clash with the bronze pulls, unless we switch the faucets out too (which I'd rather not do unless they're broken...actually one is kinda acting funny with one knob not turning well, but I might be able to troubleshoot it to get it back).

One of my realtor friends said the black/dark hardware on white/whitish cabinets is sort of the in thing these days.

Also, I just installed all brushed nickel door levers on all the doors in our place just so those would be updated.

[SunnyDays]

You don't have to have the same hardware in both the bathroom and kitchen unless you want to.  Whatever looks best with the finishes you already have would work.  Too much variety, especially in a smaller room like a bathroom just looks clash-y.  So you could do nickel in the bathroom and bronze in the kitchen.  For the bronze ones, I would do a combination of pull on the lowers and knobs on the uppers.  I don't think I would put anything on the dummy faces - it would suggest that these are functioning drawers.  Also, the style of hardware is just as important as the finish.  You wouldn't want to put vintage-style stuff (like the pulls you pictured) on super-modern cabinets, for example.

[jeromedawg]

You don't have to have the same hardware in both the bathroom and kitchen unless you want to.  Whatever looks best with the finishes you already have would work.  Too much variety, especially in a smaller room like a bathroom just looks clash-y.  So you could do nickel in the bathroom and bronze in the kitchen.  For the bronze ones, I would do a combination of pull on the lowers and knobs on the uppers.  I don't think I would put anything on the dummy faces - it would suggest that these are functioning drawers.  Also, the style of hardware is just as important as the finish.  You wouldn't want to put vintage-style stuff (like the pulls you pictured) on super-modern cabinets, for example.

Thanks!

The cabinets are more 'vintage' - I wouldn't classify them as modern by any means. They have these odd slats on them:






I'm not sure what I would put on the lower cabinets however. Knobs? Or perhaps turn these side-ways for the bottom cabinets, or would that look too weird??


As far as the bathrooms, I was thinking nickel - do I want to just go with all knobs in the bathrooms? Or are the same types of drawer pulls (like the 'half-moon' pull I just posted) good there?

[Another Reader]

Because of the door and drawer design, any handles or knobs would look awkward.  There is sort of a built in "pull" on the doors.  Plus you have hinges that show.  I personally think you just draw attention to the dated cabinets and the hinges by adding hardware.  Tenants don't care and buyers aren't going to like the cabinets no matter what pulls you put on them.

[jeromedawg]

Because of the door and drawer design, any handles or knobs would look awkward.  There is sort of a built in "pull" on the doors.  Plus you have hinges that show.  I personally think you just draw attention to the dated cabinets and the hinges by adding hardware.  Tenants don't care and buyers aren't going to like the cabinets no matter what pulls you put on them.

I see... so it may not be worth doing anything to the kitchen cabinets. They do look pretty busy as is with the existing lines. BTW: the hinges that are on those are actually new to replace the original ones, which were falling apart. I didn't want to deal with trying to install inside-cabinet hinges after the repainting effort and just wanted to get newer hinges that mostly fit the existing holes from the previous hinges. Not idea/optimal but it is what it is at this point.

Here's an example of a similar unit that sold recently with the same cabinets but painted a different color:


Unless it would make sense just to put round knobs on *all* cabinets and drawers like the above - it doesn't look *that* bad.

How about the remaining bathroom/hallway/laundry cabinets (excuse the mess)?




Worth slapping some of these on?

[Another Reader]

The gloss gray paint, with the hinges painted to match, gray granite, stainless appliances, and those knobs look good because it all blends together.  Unless you want to spend a fair amount of money on the kitchen, yours will not look like that.  I wouldn't do anything if you are renting it, and depending on what your agent says, I probably would just sell it without doing much more.

In your shoes, I would sell and use the 2 out of 5 rule to protect your capital gain.  Rent in the preferred school district until your child is safely enrolled in the program you want, then buy.

[jeromedawg]

The gloss gray paint, with the hinges painted to match, gray granite, stainless appliances, and those knobs look good because it all blends together.  Unless you want to spend a fair amount of money on the kitchen, yours will not look like that.  I wouldn't do anything if you are renting it, and depending on what your agent says, I probably would just sell it without doing much more.

In your shoes, I would sell and use the 2 out of 5 rule to protect your capital gain.  Rent in the preferred school district until your child is safely enrolled in the program you want, then buy.

At this point, based on other suggestions, I'm not planning on renting. We are basically making minor/small fixes and updates to the place that will help for it to show a little more nicely.

Another of my realtor friends (not our realtor) who is keen to the market here in SoCal was suggesting the black hardware on white cabinetry as it's one of the trends nowadays. But yea I guess it depends on the design of the cabinets themselves too.

I did just go through and replace the door knobs (ugly brass) with matted/nickel door levers last night and today. And I also ordered a few light fixtures and a new ceiling fan to replace the ones I originally pictured.Was considering blinds but those are very expensive ($500-600 to replace all the blinds in our living room and kitchen).

Just trying to figure out what other minor things we can do that don't cost a ton of time or money but will help the place show better.

So no on even adding the matte/nickel knobs to bathroom and hallways too?

As far as the plan to sell and rent, this is exactly what the plan is. I have checked and it sounds like we'll be fine to meet the 2/5 rule for protecting capital gains. We are trying to find a place to rent before Feb (likely just signing a 1yr lease and, if needed depending if we find a place sooner than later, will break the lease assuming it's not too cost-prohibitive). Once we find the rental and are out of the current place will move to sell but in the meantime I'm trying to add small improvements where it makes the most sense. Then once it's sold we'll take our time and shop around for a deal on a new place to buy. 

[SunnyDays]

I agree that the kitchen cabinets are not meant to have any knobs at all if they are identical to the other home's cabinets.  If they have a lip where you can get your fingers in and you're not just prying the door away from the frame, then you can get away with nothing.  If you want to dress it up a little, the round silver knobs would be fairly unobtrusive.  I think the bronze ones wouldn't look right - the style would not be compatible.

You could do knobs in the bathroom and whatever the other room is though, because those doors are flush.  Either knobs or handles would look alright.  You might consider refacing the bathroom cupboards as well - they look like they've seen better days.

[jeromedawg]

I agree that the kitchen cabinets are not meant to have any knobs at all if they are identical to the other home's cabinets.  If they have a lip where you can get your fingers in and you're not just prying the door away from the frame, then you can get away with nothing.  If you want to dress it up a little, the round silver knobs would be fairly unobtrusive.  I think the bronze ones wouldn't look right - the style would not be compatible.

You could do knobs in the bathroom and whatever the other room is though, because those doors are flush.  Either knobs or handles would look alright.  You might consider refacing the bathroom cupboards as well - they look like they've seen better days.

Ah, so you think the kitchen cabinets and doors would be better served with the silver knobs (such as the one I posted a pic of) but not bronze, if anything. But no need to really do those. Do you think the black/bronze fan I picked up would be OK to replace the current white fan in the kitchen/dining nook area still?

As far as installing knobs in the bathrooms and hallways, I'll keep thinking about it. I think knobs would generally be more inexpensive than handles though. In terms of "refacing" the bathroom cabinetry - are you saying to completely sand them down and refinish/repaint? Or would it be sufficient just to have the contractor painting our home just repaint the cabinets a different color? I'm assuming a whiter white than what it is now (maybe even the same white as what we did for the kitchen)?

[Another Reader]

I agree that the kitchen cabinets are not meant to have any knobs at all if they are identical to the other home's cabinets.  If they have a lip where you can get your fingers in and you're not just prying the door away from the frame, then you can get away with nothing.  If you want to dress it up a little, the round silver knobs would be fairly unobtrusive.  I think the bronze ones wouldn't look right - the style would not be compatible.

You could do knobs in the bathroom and whatever the other room is though, because those doors are flush.  Either knobs or handles would look alright.  You might consider refacing the bathroom cupboards as well - they look like they've seen better days.

Ah, so you think the kitchen cabinets and doors would be better served with the silver knobs (such as the one I posted a pic of) but not bronze, if anything. But no need to really do those. Do you think the black/bronze fan I picked up would be OK to replace the current white fan in the kitchen/dining nook area still?

As far as installing knobs in the bathrooms and hallways, I'll keep thinking about it. I think knobs would generally be more inexpensive than handles though. In terms of "refacing" the bathroom cabinetry - are you saying to completely sand them down and refinish/repaint? Or would it be sufficient just to have the contractor painting our home just repaint the cabinets a different color? I'm assuming a whiter white than what it is now (maybe even the same white as what we did for the kitchen)?

I think you are wasting a lot of time and energy on things that will make very little if any difference in the value of the property.  The more critical issues are effective demand and mortgage rates.  As long as your economy is strong and interest rates very low, your property will sell at a good price.  Should the economy weaken or rates go up, your value will decline by a lot more than any small fixes well add.

In your shoes, I would get the three top agents in your condo market to tour the property, give you their analysis of market value, estimated time to sell, and a list of inexpensive and easy changes that would add more value than they cost and make your unit stand out.  Frankly, your unit is very much the entry level in your area, and buyers are probably already stretching to buy.  Spending $2-$5,000 on small decorative changes isn't going to increase your price much.  If there is little to no competition at your price point, and the unit is squeaky clean and in good repair, it's going to sell and for a good price.

[jeromedawg]

I agree that the kitchen cabinets are not meant to have any knobs at all if they are identical to the other home's cabinets.  If they have a lip where you can get your fingers in and you're not just prying the door away from the frame, then you can get away with nothing.  If you want to dress it up a little, the round silver knobs would be fairly unobtrusive.  I think the bronze ones wouldn't look right - the style would not be compatible.

You could do knobs in the bathroom and whatever the other room is though, because those doors are flush.  Either knobs or handles would look alright.  You might consider refacing the bathroom cupboards as well - they look like they've seen better days.

Ah, so you think the kitchen cabinets and doors would be better served with the silver knobs (such as the one I posted a pic of) but not bronze, if anything. But no need to really do those. Do you think the black/bronze fan I picked up would be OK to replace the current white fan in the kitchen/dining nook area still?

As far as installing knobs in the bathrooms and hallways, I'll keep thinking about it. I think knobs would generally be more inexpensive than handles though. In terms of "refacing" the bathroom cabinetry - are you saying to completely sand them down and refinish/repaint? Or would it be sufficient just to have the contractor painting our home just repaint the cabinets a different color? I'm assuming a whiter white than what it is now (maybe even the same white as what we did for the kitchen)?

I think you are wasting a lot of time and energy on things that will make very little if any difference in the value of the property.  The more critical issues are effective demand and mortgage rates.  As long as your economy is strong and interest rates very low, your property will sell at a good price.  Should the economy weaken or rates go up, your value will decline by a lot more than any small fixes well add.

In your shoes, I would get the three top agents in your condo market to tour the property, give you their analysis of market value, estimated time to sell, and a list of inexpensive and easy changes that would add more value than they cost and make your unit stand out.  Frankly, your unit is very much the entry level in your area, and buyers are probably already stretching to buy.  Spending $2-$5,000 on small decorative changes isn't going to increase your price much.  If there is little to no competition at your price point, and the unit is squeaky clean and in good repair, it's going to sell and for a good price.

A few questions (coming from someone who has never sold a property):
1) how do you know who the top three agents are in your area? Yelp reviews?
2) can I call each of those agents and ask them to do that groundwork expecting that they'll do it without wanting any sort of compensation, commitment or other contingencies (such as signing an agreement with them to effectively be my realtor/selling agent)? And if the expectation is that it should cost money, what should I expect to pay? And if I do proceed with this, is it a good idea to inform my realtor/agent who I am committed to of my intentions so he's aware?
3) at a minimum, would you agree that $5000 spent on a new paint is a good idea?

We live right down the street from a large new development (all new as recently as the past year back maybe 5 years) in Irvine, if that makes any difference... based on the general consensus I hear between my realtor friends, it seems like buyers wanting to move to Irvine have high expectations as far as "turnkey" - units in the community I live in I don't believe are as 'popular' in comparison and the appreciation seen since living here (just observing other units that have sold) has generally been lower compared to most other areas/developments/communities.

[Another Reader]

The standard advice is to get three people to look at the property and tell you what it's worth and how to achieve that number.  You are interviewing someone for a job for which you are going to pay them a lot of money.  They had better have a strong resume and some good reasons for you to hire them.  Ask around, look at whose signs you see around your complex and competing properties, that sort of thing.

Without seeing the unit, I can't tell you what I would do.  Let the agents tell you what they would do.  A fresh coat of paint and new or squeaky clean flooring usually go a long way.  Entry level buyers want no hassles, so replace that old fridge today on the 4th of July sale.  Don't cheap out there. Spend a couple of hundred more to get a nice unit with the space and features buyers want.  Same with a decent dishwasher if yours is older and dingy.  The range looks good.

[MoseyingAlong]

A few questions (coming from someone who has never sold a property):
1) how do you know who the top three agents are in your area? Yelp reviews?
2) can I call each of those agents and ask them to do that groundwork expecting that they'll do it without wanting any sort of compensation, commitment or contingency (such as signing an agreement with them to effectively be your realtor/selling agent)? And if the expectation is that it should cost money, what should I expect to pay?
3) at a minimum, would you agree that $5000 spent on a new paint is a good idea? ....

As someone involved in the sale of 2 homes in northern California in the last five years, that was great advice.
Maybe don't fixate on getting "the" top agents but look for at least 2 of the 3 to have been busy the last few years. I like to give new people opportunities plus sometimes they are hungry or know the right people.

I recommend being upfront with them that you are interviewing a few agents and let them make their sales pitch to you for why they should be your choice to sell your home. That should include a recommended listing price, how they arrived at it and what they expect to happen. If they can't be bothered to do that, they probably won't be bothered to do much as your agent. It's running a report, putting some thought into it and presenting it. It's not a 40-hour project.

Yes, painting is probably a good move. It doesn't sound like you're selling a fixer-upper so your buyers are looking for something move-in ready. A fresh coat of paint goes a long way towards that.

From your other thread, I'd cancel the new refrigerator. Disclose known issues with the current one but leave it. The new owners may want a fancy frig or a basic one or they may already have one. They may be happy with the old frig for years. Unless it's leaking, causing problems, smells bad, etc., just leave it.

I ended up spending a lot of time doing little odds and ends that probably didn't matter at all or make any difference in the sales process. But they were "my" homes and I wanted them to show well. Limit the time and $$$ you spend doing that.

Hope it sells quickly and for a good amount!

[jeromedawg]

The standard advice is to get three people to look at the property and tell you what it's worth and how to achieve that number.  You are interviewing someone for a job for which you are going to pay them a lot of money.  They had better have a strong resume and some good reasons for you to hire them.  Ask around, look at whose signs you see around your complex and competing properties, that sort of thing.

Without seeing the unit, I can't tell you what I would do.  Let the agents tell you what they would do.  A fresh coat of paint and new or squeaky clean flooring usually go a long way.  Entry level buyers want no hassles, so replace that old fridge today on the 4th of July sale.  Don't cheap out there. Spend a couple of hundred more to get a nice unit with the space and features buyers want.  Same with a decent dishwasher if yours is older and dingy.  The range looks good.

So is it better not to tell my realtor (who I actually plan to use) that I'm intending to have other realtors come in and give their assessment?

With the old fridge I actually have a new one on order but it's on backorder. It will match the rest of the appliances though - the dishwasher is an older unit I got to replace the non-working unit that was installed when I first moved in. It is still going strong and is a really nice unit and works well; it just doesn't match the rest of the appliances. Just got a new water heater put in. Not sure about the remaining life on the condenser and furnace though.

A few questions (coming from someone who has never sold a property):
1) how do you know who the top three agents are in your area? Yelp reviews?
2) can I call each of those agents and ask them to do that groundwork expecting that they'll do it without wanting any sort of compensation, commitment or contingency (such as signing an agreement with them to effectively be your realtor/selling agent)? And if the expectation is that it should cost money, what should I expect to pay?
3) at a minimum, would you agree that $5000 spent on a new paint is a good idea? ....

As someone involved in the sale of 2 homes in northern California in the last five years, that was great advice.
Maybe don't fixate on getting "the" top agents but look for at least 2 of the 3 to have been busy the last few years. I like to give new people opportunities plus sometimes they are hungry or know the right people.

I recommend being upfront with them that you are interviewing a few agents and let them make their sales pitch to you for why they should be your choice to sell your home. That should include a recommended listing price, how they arrived at it and what they expect to happen. If they can't be bothered to do that, they probably won't be bothered to do much as your agent. It's running a report, putting some thought into it and presenting it. It's not a 40-hour project.

Yes, painting is probably a good move. It doesn't sound like you're selling a fixer-upper so your buyers are looking for something move-in ready. A fresh coat of paint goes a long way towards that.

From your other thread, I'd cancel the new refrigerator. Disclose known issues with the current one but leave it. The new owners may want a fancy frig or a basic one or they may already have one. They may be happy with the old frig for years. Unless it's leaking, causing problems, smells bad, etc., just leave it.

I ended up spending a lot of time doing little odds and ends that probably didn't matter at all or make any difference in the sales process. But they were "my" homes and I wanted them to show well. Limit the time and $$$ you spend doing that.

Hope it sells quickly and for a good amount!

Thanks for the tips - is there a place online where I can look up which agents sold what? That would probably be helpful. I haven't paid much attention to the signs in the area but I know of a few names (like the person who sold the unit above us a few years ago, as well as flyers left by another real estate team, and also one other realtor who has shown some homes in our neighborhood in the past 5 or so years). Not sure that they're the "Top agents" in the area so still trying to figure that piece out in terms of who the prolific ones are. Like I said, I haven't ever been in the selling game so this whole process is foreign to me outside of just relying on my own realtor.

Our place can definitely be move-in ready with a few of our own fix-ups. We've kept it in pretty good condition since moving in.

The fridge I'm kinda sitting on - I got it at a pretty decent deal so don't want to forfeit that especially if it can come out of backorder and be delivered before we move so we can at least take some advantage of it LOL.

[Another Reader]

The standard advice is to get three people to look at the property and tell you what it's worth and how to achieve that number.  You are interviewing someone for a job for which you are going to pay them a lot of money.  They had better have a strong resume and some good reasons for you to hire them.  Ask around, look at whose signs you see around your complex and competing properties, that sort of thing.

Without seeing the unit, I can't tell you what I would do.  Let the agents tell you what they would do.  A fresh coat of paint and new or squeaky clean flooring usually go a long way.  Entry level buyers want no hassles, so replace that old fridge today on the 4th of July sale.  Don't cheap out there. Spend a couple of hundred more to get a nice unit with the space and features buyers want.  Same with a decent dishwasher if yours is older and dingy.  The range looks good.

So is it better not to tell my realtor (who I actually plan to use) that I'm intending to have other realtors come in and give their assessment?

With the old fridge I actually have a new one on order but it's on backorder. It will match the rest of the appliances though - the dishwasher is an older unit I got to replace the non-working unit that was installed when I first moved in. It is still going strong and is a really nice unit and works well; it just doesn't match the rest of the appliances. Just got a new water heater put in. Not sure about the remaining life on the condenser and furnace though.

I wouldn't hire anyone until I interviewed a few.  What makes this one special? 

Buy the refrigerator the market wants.  Look at the one in the unit with the gray cabinets.  Don't cheap out.

[jeromedawg]

The standard advice is to get three people to look at the property and tell you what it's worth and how to achieve that number.  You are interviewing someone for a job for which you are going to pay them a lot of money.  They had better have a strong resume and some good reasons for you to hire them.  Ask around, look at whose signs you see around your complex and competing properties, that sort of thing.

Without seeing the unit, I can't tell you what I would do.  Let the agents tell you what they would do.  A fresh coat of paint and new or squeaky clean flooring usually go a long way.  Entry level buyers want no hassles, so replace that old fridge today on the 4th of July sale.  Don't cheap out there. Spend a couple of hundred more to get a nice unit with the space and features buyers want.  Same with a decent dishwasher if yours is older and dingy.  The range looks good.

So is it better not to tell my realtor (who I actually plan to use) that I'm intending to have other realtors come in and give their assessment?

With the old fridge I actually have a new one on order but it's on backorder. It will match the rest of the appliances though - the dishwasher is an older unit I got to replace the non-working unit that was installed when I first moved in. It is still going strong and is a really nice unit and works well; it just doesn't match the rest of the appliances. Just got a new water heater put in. Not sure about the remaining life on the condenser and furnace though.

I wouldn't hire anyone until I interviewed a few.  What makes this one special? 

Buy the refrigerator the market wants.  Look at the one in the unit with the gray cabinets.  Don't cheap out.

He's a friend of ours and has been helping us for years - as far back as 2010. He has shown us multiple homes (probably over a dozen we've walked through with him) back when we were considering looking for something more actively in 2011-13 but decided not to jump. And outside of that he has shown us places over the years when we've expressed interest even though we weren't quite ready to move forward. Lately he has been helping us with trying to secure a rental for our move and has been in discussions the entire time about the situation with the condo and our intentions of selling it and wanting to purchase further south. He has invested a lot of time and energy into it for us, so we feel indebted to him. And we believe that he is looking out for our best interests too. Aside from this, I think if we were to ultimately go with another realtor, we'd probably burn bridges big time here... he's a good friend of ours so I don't want to do that to him. So we plan to commit with him for this sale and helping us with the new lease and eventually the new purchase (likely) but perhaps after that go a different direction if anything.

[Another Reader]

Then take his advice and move on.

I own a number of rentals and have bought and sold a lot of houses.  You won't always make the "best" decision about this stuff.  Try to make a good, market based decision and be done. Five years from now you won't even remember the drawer pulls.

One thing I have noticed about you since you started posting here is that you seem to be a lot like your father.  You obsess over small details and that interferes with just making good decisions and moving on.  That's not a fun way to live.  Keep that tendency in mind as you move through life.

[jeromedawg]

Then take his advice and move on.

I own a number of rentals and have bought and sold a lot of houses.  You won't always make the "best" decision about this stuff.  Try to make a good, market based decision and be done. Five years from now you won't even remember the drawer pulls.

One thing I have noticed about you since you started posting here is that you seem to be a lot like your father.  You obsess over small details and that interferes with just making good decisions and moving on.  That's not a fun way to live.  Keep that tendency in mind as you move through life.

My dad obsessing over small details!??! Whaaaat? That sounds so foreign to me. The man I know/knew could care less about the small details - I think I get the obsession of details more from my mom , not my dad. He was a nuclear engineer so I'm sure he had to worry about details somewhere. For the past 15 or so years since retirement, he has slowly checked out, to the point where he is today. Today he obsesses over things because of his anxiety and depression, which many of us have a hunch is part in due to early onset dementia (TBD soon hopefully). But I think I get your point - don't keep up with this pattern of thinking/obsession lest it stay with you forever.

Aside from all that, I'm mostly just trying to figure out which things will make the value-add. It seems like everyone has their own opinion but I guess you're looking, generally speaking, for the things that overlap. For example, I've asked my realtor friend and he has advised that sure we can add new door knobs and drawer pulls if we have some time to do all that. The door lever thing was just something the contractor mentioned in passing and it made sense - we had 80's style brass door knobs that really looked awful now that I see the levers in place. Others I've asked say it makes very little difference if anything. Anyway, I have the time and it is kind of cathartic doing it as I enjoy working with my hands. As I type all this, I think I sound a lot more like my mom than I do my dad - they're going through a renovation project on a property they're getting rehabbed up in the Bay Area and she's already over-involved asking the contractor for many details despite my brother managing all of it.

[Another Reader]

If your low end condo market is hot, all of these details make very little difference.  If it's not, they make more of a difference.  What is marketing time for entry level condo product in your area? 

The door levers were a good decision.  Get a nice fridge and replace the movie set bathroom lights. The slower the market, the more details like that make a difference. 

[jeromedawg]

If your low end condo market is hot, all of these details make very little difference.  If it's not, they make more of a difference.  What is marketing time for entry level condo product in your area? 

The door levers were a good decision.  Get a nice fridge and replace the movie set bathroom lights. The slower the market, the more details like that make a difference. 

I'll have to look at entry level. A lot of the more updated units have sold relatively quickly though. There aren't many units here that often go on sale but I'll recheck MLS to verify.

The fridge I have on order is this one https://www.homedepot.com/p/GE-21-9-cu-ft-Top-Freezer-Refrigerator-in-Black-Slate-Fingerprint-Resistant-GTS22KMNRDS/312429513 - i got it for more basic functionality for our own use originally but it has been on backorder for over a month. It matches the stove and microwave finish/color though. They have french door units that are nicer but well over $1000. Also limited space for a double door in the kitchen space. Top freezer units are more easily accessible unless there's a major kitchen remodel in these condos.


EDIT: OK, so the most recent unit that sold which is a mirrored unit right across the street, sold on 12/18/18 for $610k (listed 8/23/18 at $599k). This unit had hardwood/laminate flooring but original tiling, updated cabinetry/counters in the kitchen and bath but no appliances. One benefit with that unit and ours is that we are both corner units and also have probably the most spacious garages out (two single port doors but the same garage inside) of all the units in the community.

Since then, only three other similar units (3 bed 2 bath upstairs units, which seem more desirable - there are a lot more of these that have sold recently than bottom floor units) went to market:
One unit for $608k on 10/5/18 (listed 8/27/18 at $635k) and was pretty entry level with carpeting and original tiling but with nice shutters for the windows. Very little staging was done for this and the pictures don't show it well. 
The upstairs unit above us sold on 4/3/20 for $675k (listed 2/7/20 at $699,900) - TONS of really nice upgrades (but awful soundproofing).
Another unit sold for $645k on 6/25/20 (listed 5/28/20 for $679k) - this is the one where I posted a picture of the upgraded kitchen. Hardwood flooring through common areas. Updated tiling in kitchen/bathroom/fireplace. Carpeted bedrooms. New bathroom vanities/fixtures but original tubs.

All these units, with the exception of the unit above us, were partially upgraded.

There are two other bottom unit same/mirrored floorplans that sold for $560k and $570k in 2016 and 2017, respectively, and just looking through the listing pics were pretty heavily updated (though either missing a fridge or washer/dryer). The $560k one took a few months to sell and the $570k one took about 4-5 months to sell.

[Another Reader]

If your low end condo market is hot, all of these details make very little difference.  If it's not, they make more of a difference.  What is marketing time for entry level condo product in your area? 

The door levers were a good decision.  Get a nice fridge and replace the movie set bathroom lights. The slower the market, the more details like that make a difference. 

I'll have to look at entry level. A lot of the more updated units have sold relatively quickly though. There aren't many units here that often go on sale but I'll recheck MLS to verify.

The fridge I have on order is this one https://www.homedepot.com/p/GE-21-9-cu-ft-Top-Freezer-Refrigerator-in-Black-Slate-Fingerprint-Resistant-GTS22KMNRDS/312429513 - i got it for more basic functionality for our own use originally but it has been on backorder for over a month. It matches the stove and microwave finish/color though. They have french door units that are nicer but well over $1000. Also limited space for a double door in the kitchen space. Top freezer units are more easily accessible unless there's a major kitchen remodel in these condos.

What does the market want?  Buy that.  I used the same stainless French door fridge in every property for several years.  It was popular with both buyers and tenants.  Always on sale.  Haven't had to buy one recently so I'm out of touch.  However, I would not sell an entry level unit without a fridge.  Big expense for a first-time buyer and people want move-in ready.

[jeromedawg]

If your low end condo market is hot, all of these details make very little difference.  If it's not, they make more of a difference.  What is marketing time for entry level condo product in your area? 

The door levers were a good decision.  Get a nice fridge and replace the movie set bathroom lights. The slower the market, the more details like that make a difference. 

I'll have to look at entry level. A lot of the more updated units have sold relatively quickly though. There aren't many units here that often go on sale but I'll recheck MLS to verify.

The fridge I have on order is this one https://www.homedepot.com/p/GE-21-9-cu-ft-Top-Freezer-Refrigerator-in-Black-Slate-Fingerprint-Resistant-GTS22KMNRDS/312429513 - i got it for more basic functionality for our own use originally but it has been on backorder for over a month. It matches the stove and microwave finish/color though. They have french door units that are nicer but well over $1000. Also limited space for a double door in the kitchen space. Top freezer units are more easily accessible unless there's a major kitchen remodel in these condos.

What does the market want?  Buy that.  I used the same stainless French door fridge in every property for several years.  It was popular with both buyers and tenants.  Always on sale.  Haven't had to buy one recently so I'm out of touch.  However, I would not sell an entry level unit without a fridge.  Big expense for a first-time buyer and people want move-in ready.

I think stainless steel is preferable. The range/microwave I have are 'black slate' which I think might be another trend maybe not *as* popular but I don't think anyone would complain. So I'll keep the fridge on order in that case. I can always just cancel if it's still on back-order by the time my agent wants to list. And worst case I can try to find a deal on something, even if it's stainless steel french door and doesn't match the other appliances.

Counter depth is 27" and our current junk fridge is 32" deep. Can't really get something too big or it'll stick out like a sore thumb in there. I have an "EPP" type thing through work for the GE Appliance store, so there's a bit of a discount I can get. The problem is that most items are on backorder :( The nicer side-by-side and French door fridges will run anywhere from $1500-2000 or easily more. Do you really get that much of an ROI for fridges?

[Another Reader]

The fridge makes it easier to sell to first time home buyers.  I would check Lowes and Home Depot for their fourth of July sales.  GE sold their appliance business to Haier.  I would not hold my breath for a "discount" on a product that you may never see.

What does you agent suggest for a list price?  What's your competition?  Days on market for your competition?  I think you are in Irvine, right?  Seems like a lot of condos on the market there right now per Zillow.

[jeromedawg]

The fridge makes it easier to sell to first time home buyers.  I would check Lowes and Home Depot for their fourth of July sales.  GE sold their appliance business to Haier.  I would not hold my breath for a "discount" on a product that you may never see.

What does you agent suggest for a list price?  What's your competition?  Days on market for your competition?  I think you are in Irvine, right?  Seems like a lot of condos on the market there right now per Zillow.

Dang... guess I'll see if there are any side-by-side or French door refrigerators that are good. At this point does it matter what brand or whatever?

Agent was suggesting under-pricing it, to try to start a bidding war and in hopes of it going anywhere from $10-15k over the list price. He says it's better to do that than list too high and have to come down on price. I'm having another realtor come by to give an assessment later today. In terms of competition, there is no direct competition in my immediate community or even the immediate neighborhood - there are no current or even coming soon listings up right now.

[Another Reader]

French doors seem very popular.  I favor Whirlpool.  Avoid Samsung and LG.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Black-Stainless-WRF560SMHV/302657599

Fits in a regular refrigerator space and is black stainless.  Not a great deal, but it might solve your issues.

[Another Reader]

Water through the door:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Black-Stainless-WRF560SEHV/305754247

Or you can pay a lot for counter depth.  No black stainless option.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Stainless-Steel-WRF550CDHZ/302850106

[jeromedawg]

French doors seem very popular.  I favor Whirlpool.  Avoid Samsung and LG.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Black-Stainless-WRF560SMHV/302657599

Fits in a regular refrigerator space and is black stainless.  Not a great deal, but it might solve your issues.

Yea, I've heard bad things about Samsung and LG too. Crazy how much these refrigerators are but I'll strongly consider it. I know my realtor would advise leaving the current one there or getting rid of it but I'm getting the opinions of a couple other realtors today to see what they think.

In terms of the bathroom vanity movie light - what would you suggest putting in place of it?

[Another Reader]

A nice, simple brushed nickel fixture.  Again, do not mix finishes.

[jeromedawg]

Water through the door:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Black-Stainless-WRF560SEHV/305754247

Or you can pay a lot for counter depth.  No black stainless option.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Stainless-Steel-WRF550CDHZ/302850106

How about buying a used/floor model fridge from somewhere like Sears or Sears Outlet?

[Another Reader]

Water through the door:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Black-Stainless-WRF560SEHV/305754247

Or you can pay a lot for counter depth.  No black stainless option.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Stainless-Steel-WRF550CDHZ/302850106

How about buying a used/floor model fridge from somewhere like Sears or Sears Outlet?

Is Sears still in business?  They are all gone up here.

Quit trying to save a few dollars on stupid stuff.  Buy what the market wants/expects.  Make the unit move in ready for the first time buyer, if that is your likely buyer.

You are in a lower unit that is naturally dark. Skip any ceiling fans or light fixtures with off white to yellow lights.  Bright lights and reflective brushed nickel make the space more appealing.  Think about that if you repaint the interior as well.

Think like a house flipper, because that's what you are now.

[jeromedawg]

Water through the door:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Black-Stainless-WRF560SEHV/305754247

Or you can pay a lot for counter depth.  No black stainless option.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Stainless-Steel-WRF550CDHZ/302850106

How about buying a used/floor model fridge from somewhere like Sears or Sears Outlet?

Is Sears still in business?  They are all gone up here.

Quit trying to save a few dollars on stupid stuff.  Buy what the market wants/expects.  Make the unit move in ready for the first time buyer, if that is your likely buyer.

You are in a lower unit that is naturally dark. Skip any ceiling fans or light fixtures with off white to yellow lights.  Bright lights and reflective brushed nickel make the space more appealing.  Think about that if you repaint the interior as well.

Think like a house flipper, because that's what you are now.

Just had another realtor stop by and two more slated for later. This realtor was in line with mine, suggesting minimal upgrades - he agreed the door levers were a good add psychologically. But everything else just leave. Even the fridge don't bother. And don't bother with any of the light fixtures or the fan. He sounded highly confident of this. At most he recommended touch-up, carpet cleaning and deep cleaning. Of course, that's assuming the carpet is in good condition everywhere and the walls hidden by furniture as well. In terms of potentially repainting beyond touching-up, he said that because of the lower unit aspect, white or bright white is a better color in general. Our place is naturally dark and doesn't get a ton of sunlight coming through so I can see how that makes sense. As far as all the fixtures I order, I'll likely just cancel/return them all.
If anything, I'll go with the suggestion of buying full spectrum/daylight bulbs (this was also suggested in another thread) to reduce the yellowish tint.

[Another Reader]

Water through the door:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Black-Stainless-WRF560SEHV/305754247

Or you can pay a lot for counter depth.  No black stainless option.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Stainless-Steel-WRF550CDHZ/302850106

How about buying a used/floor model fridge from somewhere like Sears or Sears Outlet?

Is Sears still in business?  They are all gone up here.

Quit trying to save a few dollars on stupid stuff.  Buy what the market wants/expects.  Make the unit move in ready for the first time buyer, if that is your likely buyer.

You are in a lower unit that is naturally dark. Skip any ceiling fans or light fixtures with off white to yellow lights.  Bright lights and reflective brushed nickel make the space more appealing.  Think about that if you repaint the interior as well.

Think like a house flipper, because that's what you are now.

Just had another realtor stop by and two more slated for later. This realtor was in line with mine, suggesting minimal upgrades - he agreed the door levers were a good add psychologically. But everything else just leave. Even the fridge don't bother. And don't bother with any of the light fixtures or the fan. He sounded highly confident of this. At most he recommended touch-up, carpet cleaning and deep cleaning. Of course, that's assuming the carpet is in good condition everywhere and the walls hidden by furniture as well. In terms of potentially repainting beyond touching-up, he said that because of the lower unit aspect, white or bright white is a better color in general. Our place is naturally dark and doesn't get a ton of sunlight coming through so I can see how that makes sense. As far as all the fixtures I order, I'll likely just cancel/return them all.
If anything, I'll go with the suggestion of buying full spectrum/daylight bulbs (this was also suggested in another thread) to reduce the yellowish tint.

What was the suggested list price?  Did he review the comparable sales with you?  How long did he think it would take to sell?

[SunnyDays]

Hmmm, unless it's a really hot market, I think I would still do the things you've talked about.  First time buyers tend to be intimidated by the need for work, even if it's just cosmetic, and it's surprising how much extra people will pay just to avoid that.  Plus, most people have no imagination when it comes to seeing how much better a place could look and are negatively influenced by anything they don't  like.  Even if you don't get more money, it could speed up the sale, which translates into the same thing.

[jeromedawg]

Water through the door:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Black-Stainless-WRF560SEHV/305754247

Or you can pay a lot for counter depth.  No black stainless option.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Whirlpool-20-cu-ft-French-Door-Refrigerator-in-Fingerprint-Resistant-Stainless-Steel-WRF550CDHZ/302850106

How about buying a used/floor model fridge from somewhere like Sears or Sears Outlet?

Is Sears still in business?  They are all gone up here.

Quit trying to save a few dollars on stupid stuff.  Buy what the market wants/expects.  Make the unit move in ready for the first time buyer, if that is your likely buyer.

You are in a lower unit that is naturally dark. Skip any ceiling fans or light fixtures with off white to yellow lights.  Bright lights and reflective brushed nickel make the space more appealing.  Think about that if you repaint the interior as well.

Think like a house flipper, because that's what you are now.

Just had another realtor stop by and two more slated for later. This realtor was in line with mine, suggesting minimal upgrades - he agreed the door levers were a good add psychologically. But everything else just leave. Even the fridge don't bother. And don't bother with any of the light fixtures or the fan. He sounded highly confident of this. At most he recommended touch-up, carpet cleaning and deep cleaning. Of course, that's assuming the carpet is in good condition everywhere and the walls hidden by furniture as well. In terms of potentially repainting beyond touching-up, he said that because of the lower unit aspect, white or bright white is a better color in general. Our place is naturally dark and doesn't get a ton of sunlight coming through so I can see how that makes sense. As far as all the fixtures I order, I'll likely just cancel/return them all.
If anything, I'll go with the suggestion of buying full spectrum/daylight bulbs (this was also suggested in another thread) to reduce the yellowish tint.

What was the suggested list price?  Did he review the comparable sales with you?  How long did he think it would take to sell?

He thinks it could sell within a month. His concern is waiting too long and especially closer to the elections time frame (60 days out) where he forecasts demand dropping considerably (based on historical tracking he's done during election years). He sent me over some information on recent sales in the past year as well as most recent sales of my floorplan. This pretty much coincides with what I researched on my own last night. He was ballpark quoting $620-625 which I think is on the high side personally. My realtor friend was indicating that he thinks it would be closer to $608-615k AND he would undershoot on the listing at $599k in hopes of starting a bidding war.

Hmmm, unless it's a really hot market, I think I would still do the things you've talked about.  First time buyers tend to be intimidated by the need for work, even if it's just cosmetic, and it's surprising how much extra people will pay just to avoid that.  Plus, most people have no imagination when it comes to seeing how much better a place could look and are negatively influenced by anything they don't  like.  Even if you don't get more money, it could speed up the sale, which translates into the same thing.

I went ahead and canceled some of the orders since I'm not 100% sure yet (actually some are still being shipped but I can always just reorder what I canceled pretty quickly if we decide we want to put up some new light fixtures). I think the market might be relatively hot based on reading the realtor - currently there is little to no competition in the immediate area so I think the realtors are thinking that there will be a lot of people flocking to this with interest. The realtor who came by today is very familiar with these units (he sold the one above ours at $675k but originally asked $699k on it so I think he overshoots - the unit above us is slightly larger w/ vaulted ceilings so generally seems more desirable) and said he feels confident it would sell fast, even with very minimal work and updates/upgrades, in our market. He said most ppl coming into these bottom floor units are coming in with the expectation that even if things might not be current, they're workable and they're willing to pay for it. It'll obviously show much better when it's cleaned up and vacant (along with some touch-up). For paint, he felt that all that's really needed is touch-up, barring any other major issues on the walls. But was sort of pushing the idea of staying with white to help brighten the room. I did take you up on your suggestion regarding the full spectrum daylight bulbs - I ordered a set of 60w 5000k lights of the current chandelier and also those BR30s :) My realtor confirmed that I should do that if it helps brightening the room during showing.

[Another Reader]

Sounds like that guy did his homework and knows the market.  Let's see what the others say.

I like to hire the person that understands the market for my property and can tell me who the likely buyers are and what they want.  I would be inclined to hire someone like this guy to sell this property and then if you want, let your friend shop for the replacement.

I do agree that the market is going to be more hesitant as the election approaches.  It's likely that interest rates will stay low, but not guaranteed.  That isn't just an effort by the agent to motivate you to move forward.  In your shoes, I would have a discussion with my spouse about whether moving now and selling might make the most sense.

[jeromedawg]

Sounds like that guy did his homework and knows the market.  Let's see what the others say.

I like to hire the person that understands the market for my property and can tell me who the likely buyers are and what they want.  I would be inclined to hire someone like this guy to sell this property and then if you want, let your friend shop for the replacement.

I do agree that the market is going to be more hesitant as the election approaches.  It's likely that interest rates will stay low, but not guaranteed.  That isn't just an effort by the agent to motivate you to move forward.  In your shoes, I would have a discussion with my spouse about whether moving now and selling might make the most sense.

Second realtor just came by - he seemed more thorough and thoughtful. But echoed nearly the same exact things as the last realtor - in the current market just get it listed and don't sweat the small OR big things really. Paint and or touch-ups, carpet cleaning, and deep cleaning (barring any major issues like holes in walls or carpet in terrible condition). Don't worry about the fridge, blinds, replacing light fixtures, etc. But he did like the move on the door levers (lol, I guess anyone would say that it was a great move regardless... it's whether or not I should have bothered with it vs letting it be and the potential buyers doing it but I guess we can at least enjoy some nice door levers for a little while until we move haha)

Both agents have echoed that it seems better to sell now in general because we don't know how long this 'wave' will last and that there's a lot more buyer interest than there was compared to last year so it's not a bad idea to ride the wave - or at least that was the implication. The first realtor did say that if not, he would suggest renting the place out for at least 2 years.

One more agent coming later today, so we'll get her opinion and see what she thinks.

[jeromedawg]

Third realtor who showed up yesterday afternoon/evening gave the same assessment more or less. She gave an 'average' comp of $630k where the other two guys were saying around $620ish. So it's in that ballpark. And they all felt strongly that if we were to list as-is entry-level with some minor updates/improvements we would hit that number if not more. My realtor doesn't feel as confident listing as high and conservatively would prefer to list closer to $600k in hopes of inciting a bidding war (the second guy who came was of the opinion that this is risky but it would probably be just fine in today's market). I think there can be a tendency to overshoot the numbers for sure - I think I mentioned this but the first realtor who stopped by sold the upstairs place for $675k but listed it starting at $699k - that seems to be the last scenario you want to get into in a listing situation, where it's always better to price it correctly or under at the worst. Anyway, the consensus among all realtors I've spoken to who have seen the place is just to paint and or touch-up likely with a white or bright white, carpet clean, and deep clean.

[Another Reader]

Third realtor who showed up yesterday afternoon/evening gave the same assessment more or less. She gave an 'average' comp of $630k where the other two guys were saying around $620ish. So it's in that ballpark. And they all felt strongly that if we were to list as-is entry-level with some minor updates/improvements we would hit that number if not more. My realtor doesn't feel as confident listing as high and conservatively would prefer to list closer to $600k in hopes of inciting a bidding war (the second guy who came was of the opinion that this is risky but it would probably be just fine in today's market). I think there can be a tendency to overshoot the numbers for sure - I think I mentioned this but the first realtor who stopped by sold the upstairs place for $675k but listed it starting at $699k - that seems to be the last scenario you want to get into in a listing situation, where it's always better to price it correctly or under at the worst. Anyway, the consensus among all realtors I've spoken to who have seen the place is just to paint and or touch-up likely with a white or bright white, carpet clean, and deep clean.

Now that you have heard the same advice from multiple agents, have you and your wife decided on a plan?

[jeromedawg]

Third realtor who showed up yesterday afternoon/evening gave the same assessment more or less. She gave an 'average' comp of $630k where the other two guys were saying around $620ish. So it's in that ballpark. And they all felt strongly that if we were to list as-is entry-level with some minor updates/improvements we would hit that number if not more. My realtor doesn't feel as confident listing as high and conservatively would prefer to list closer to $600k in hopes of inciting a bidding war (the second guy who came was of the opinion that this is risky but it would probably be just fine in today's market). I think there can be a tendency to overshoot the numbers for sure - I think I mentioned this but the first realtor who stopped by sold the upstairs place for $675k but listed it starting at $699k - that seems to be the last scenario you want to get into in a listing situation, where it's always better to price it correctly or under at the worst. Anyway, the consensus among all realtors I've spoken to who have seen the place is just to paint and or touch-up likely with a white or bright white, carpet clean, and deep clean.

Now that you have heard the same advice from multiple agents, have you and your wife decided on a plan?

Right now we're deliberating on the rental - we met with the landlords last night and it was slightly awkward. There are some concerns with them too due to past conflict with the prior tenant who lives in the community just two doors down and who we met and talked to... according to her they are stingy and unfair. According to them she was just a problem tenant. Not sure who to believe but they did give off a weird, stand-offish and defensive vibe (the husband more so than the wife). They appear to be the type of landlords who expect this to be a passive investment - not sure if it's worth putting up with that for a year but they did come down on pricing to be I think under market (the prior tenant paid $3000 and he is offering to rent to us at $2925 - not sure if that should be a no-brainer). The other option is to live here while we prep/stage/list/sell, rent-back for 60 days and during that time try to find a place we like within the specific neighborhood we want to move into, but that puts a lot of stress and pressure on us. Anyway, if we actually move out, the plan would be to move to sell ASAP with the suggested updates. The consensus is that it's better to sell sooner than later.

[Another Reader]

Rent back won't be acceptable to most buyers.  They need to occupy or at least do whatever work they want done at close of escrow.

[jeromedawg]

Rent back won't be acceptable to most buyers.  They need to occupy or at least do whatever work they want done at close of escrow.

Yea my realtor was suggesting that we could list the place with the rent-back contingency as an option (I don't know that he was pushing it hard - he was just giving the option) but it really seems like a last resort move that would limit the amount of interest.