MAY AHN

SELLING YOUR HOME THE RIGHT WAY

Tag: South Pasadena home selling

  • Prepping Your Income Property for a Spring Sale? Here’s Where to Start

    Spring in the Greater Pasadena area is prime time for real estate — the weather is beautiful, gardens are in bloom, and buyers are actively

    searching. If you’ve been holding onto your income property and are thinking about selling this spring, now’s the time to make sure it’s show-ready.

    Whether your property is in Pasadena, Arcadia, San Marino, or South Pasadena, these spring refresh tips will help you attract both investors and

    homebuyers — and ultimately get top dollar.

    1. Start with Curb Appeal — First Impressions Count

    You only get one chance to make a first impression.

    • Trim overgrown hedges and trees
    • Add fresh mulch to flower beds
    • Power-wash walkways and driveways
    • Consider repainting the front door for a clean, welcoming look

    A tidy exterior sends the message that the rest of the property is just as well-maintained.

    2. Focus on Quick Cosmetic Updates Inside

    You don’t need a full renovation to add value — focus on simple updates that make a big impact.

    • A fresh coat of neutral paint throughout
    • Replace outdated light fixtures or hardware
    • Deep clean carpets or refinish hardwood floors
    • Update old window treatments with something light and modern

    These updates signal to buyers that your property is move-in ready, which can shorten days on market.

    3. Declutter and Depersonalize

    If the unit is tenant-occupied, coordinate with them to tidy up and minimize clutter for showings.

    If it’s vacant, consider staging key areas like the living room and kitchen to help buyers picture the rental’s potential.

    For multi-unit properties: tidy shared spaces like laundry areas or hallways these often get overlooked but leave a lasting impression.

    4. Highlight Rental Potential

    Buyers today — especially investors — want to see upside.

    • Prepare a simple rental income breakdown (current rents, projected market rent, expenses)
    • If vacant, show what market rent could be with a refreshed look
    • Highlight proximity to schools, shops, or public transit — key rental drivers in areas like Pasadena or San Gabriel

    5. Address Maintenance Issues Now

    No one wants surprises during escrow. Handle small repairs before listing:

    • Leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or broken door handles
    • Check the roof, plumbing, and electrical systems

    A clean inspection builds buyer confidence and reduces negotiation friction later on.

    Thinking About Selling This Spring?

    If you’re considering selling your income property this spring,

    I’d love to help you maximize its value and navigate the process smoothly.

    Whether in San Marino, Pasadena or nearby areas,

    I can help you prepare your property, connect with serious buyers, and guide you every step of the way.

    📞 Let’s talk about your goals — call or text me at 626-329-6999

    💻 Or email me directly at may.ahn@sothebys.realty

    Let’s get your property sold this spring — the right way.

  • Spring Staging Secrets for Pasadena Homes Over $1M

    If you’re thinking about selling your Pasadena-area home this spring, staging is one of the most effective ways to attract serious buyers—and get top dollar.

    But not just any staging will do.

    Homes over $1M need to feel polished, welcoming, and thoughtfully curated to connect with today’s high-end buyers.

    Here are my favorite spring staging secrets, inspired by what works right here in Pasadena, San Marino and surrounding neighborhoods.

    1. Maximize Natural Light—Pasadena Style

    Buyers fall in love with homes that feel bright and open. Pasadena spring light is warm and golden—use it to your advantage.

    • Open all the curtains and blinds before each showing.
    • Clean the windows—yes, inside and out.
    • Replace heavy or dated drapes with soft sheers in light neutrals.

    ☀️ A naturally lit home feels bigger, more peaceful, and more inviting—exactly what buyers are looking for.

    2. Bring the Outside In

    Spring in the San Gabriel Valley is stunning—let buyers feel that connection.

    • Add fresh-cut flowers from your garden or the South Pasadena Farmers Market.
    • Bring in greenery with potted citrus, succulents, or a vase of eucalyptus.
    • Use soft green or floral accents in your throw pillows or entryway bench.

    🌿 These subtle details help buyers feel an emotional connection—like they’ve already come home.

    3. Stage for the Life They Want

    Buyers aren’t just shopping for square footage—they’re imagining a lifestyle.

    • Set a dining table like you’re hosting a relaxed spring brunch.
    • Add a tray with lemonade and glasses on the patio to suggest outdoor living.
    • In inherited or longtime family homes, add cozy touches that invite buyers to imagine building their own memories.

    🏡 Create scenes that feel real. That’s what makes a house feel like home.

    4. Highlight Function, Not Just Features

    Luxury buyers want beauty and practicality.

    • Use furniture and decor to define open spaces—think home office corner, reading nook, or fitness zone.
    • If your home has an ADU, bonus room, or flex space, show how it can work for multigenerational living or guests.
    • Don’t hide quirks—help buyers see opportunity.

    📍 And if your home is walkable to favorites like Lacy Park or near a top-rated school? Be sure that’s front and center in your marketing.

    5. Keep It Real (and Really Clean)

    • Declutter, depersonalize, and deep clean—every corner matters.
    • Keep decor simple: neutral colors, quality textures, and a few thoughtful details.
    • Skip the artificial scents. Instead, use fresh air, a bowl of citrus, or a soft essential oil diffuser (lavender and grapefruit work great!).

    🧼 When buyers walk in, they should feel like they can breathe—and picture themselves living there.

    Thinking About Selling This Spring?

    Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or preparing to sell a family home, thoughtful staging makes all the difference—especially in Pasadena’s

    competitive $1M+ market. If you want personalized guidance on preparing your home for sale, I’m here to help every step of the way.

    📞 Call or text me: 626-329-6999
    📧 Email: may.ahn@sothebys.realty
    🌐 Explore: MayAhnHomes.com

    Let’s talk about your goals—and how we can get your home sold this spring.