Dear Reader, welcome to another addition of an Anatomy of a Sold . This innovative approach transcends the typical “Just Sold” announcement, by offering a deeper, more educational insight into the complexities of the actual transactions. Let’s dive into the key elements of an “Anatomy of a Sold” discussion, using real closings to illustrate the diverse nature of each transaction. This edition I will walk you through some of the key elements of two recent sales, 3026 Markridge Road and 3840 2nd Avenue both located in La Crescenta. It’s about how it sold not, just sold.
3026 Markridge Road
When listing any home, analyzing pending sales and market timing is crucial. For 3026 Markridge, a five-bedroom, four-bathroom home listed at $2.175 million, we anticipated an offer within 11 to 15 days based on comparable sales. By day 11, we were in the target range; activity was slower than expected, but given the price point and limited competition, we remained patient. With some staging and a strong social media campaign, and several strategic open houses, we attracted a serious buyer. On day 12, we received a strong offer. However, the seller had specific terms, and initial negotiations stalled when the buyer decided not to respond to the counter. Rather than walking away, we engaged in further discussions, leading to a revised counteroffer that ultimately resulted in a win-win agreement for both sides.
The transaction progressed smoothly until the unexpected wildfires near La Crescenta led the lender to require a reinspection, delaying closing by nearly a week. While this was an unforeseen hurdle, maintaining flexibility and proactive communication ensured a successful close. This sale reinforced key lessons: always respond to an offer, stay adaptable, and expect the unexpected. A strong agent on both sides kept negotiations on track, proving that preparation, market awareness, and persistence are key to a successful transaction.
Selling a home is about more than just putting it on the market—it’s about strategy, timing, and staying ahead of the competition. Before listing 3840 2nd Avenue, I advised my seller to make two key upgrades: replacing an outdated electrical panel for safety and installing new windows to enhance the home’s overall appeal. These improvements helped eliminate potential buyer concerns and made the property more marketable. Initially, I priced the home aggressively, but after monitoring market activity and pending sales, I saw that our pricing wasn’t in line with buyer expectations. By staying on top of the data, I recommended a $50,000 price reduction to generate interest.
At the same time, I hosted a Twilight Open House to showcase the home’s incredible backyard, professional lighting, and spa—an experience that’s best appreciated at night. This strategy worked. One of the buyers who attended Twilight Open fell in love with the home, and the price reduction helped drive multiple offers, ultimately pushing the final sale price back up by over $25,000. The key takeaway? Watching pending sales, tracking market trends, and maintaining constant, open communication with my seller allowed me to make timely decisions. By staying proactive, I kept the listing competitive and ensured a successful sale, helping my seller move forward with their next chapter.
Every home sale is different, and 3840 2nd Avenue and 3026 Markridge Road prove just that, no two transactions are ever the same. Having an experienced local agent matters. With over 35 years in the business and a deep-rooted connection to this community, I know how to navigate the twists and turns of a sale to maximize terms, price, and peace of mind for home sellers. If you’re thinking about selling, let’s sit down and talk about your goals. No pressure—just real, honest advice to help you make the best decision for your future. Give me a call, and let’s start the conversation!
All the best, Robbyn Battles
818-388-1631