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The neon orange house that sold for 40% over asking

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Updating a home without painting it all greige

How can agents honor a home seller’s design choices while also creating an appealing vision for buyers? Rachel Melby and Rachel Sheftel of Little Hill Real Estate in California prove that you don’t have to erase a home’s personality to maximize its value. 

In the third episode of the Market Ready podcast, Rachel and Rachel talk to Lance Pendleton about one of their most unique listings, a famous neighborhood home known for its bright neon exterior, colorful Mexican-inspired architecture, and unforgettable personality.

Rather than painting everything greige or stripping away the home’s identity, the team developed a thoughtful strategy that preserved its charge while making it more appealing to today’s buyers.

Episode highlights

You’ll also learn:

  • How to modernize a home without removing its personality

  • Why listening to the seller is critical before making recommendations

  • Building trust during emotionally difficult home sales

  • The psychology behind buyer perception

  • Why memorable homes often outperform generic ones

If you’re wondering how to prepare a unique property for today’s market without sacrificing what makes it special, this episode offers practical strategies that homeowners and real estate professionals can immediately apply. Make sure to subscribe to  Market Ready to get all the stories and expert strategies.



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6 Landmark Sq, Fl 4, Stamford, CT 06901

6 Landmark Sq, Fl 4

Stamford, CT 06901

¹ Results may vary, and are neither warrantied nor guaranteed. Subject to the terms and conditions of your loan agreement. Loans are provided by Notable and made by either Notable Finance, LLC, an affiliated lender, or Quorum Federal Credit Union. Notable Finance, LLC, NMLS# 1824748 loans are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license. Loan eligibility is not guaranteed and all loans are subject to credit approval and lender underwriting. Rules and exclusions apply. Subject to terms and conditions (notablehome.com/terms).

² Interest may apply. Loan funds, interest and fees are due upon the sale of your home, twelve months after origination, or the occurrence of other acceleration events as provided in your loan agreement, whichever occurs sooner. Subject to the terms and conditions of your loan agreement with one of Notable’s affiliated lenders, Notable Finance, LLC or Quorum Federal Credit Union.

³ Results may vary. Based on data published here:

www.thezebra.com/resources/research/home-staging-statistics

www.opendoor.com/articles/improvements-that-increase-home-value www.nar.realtor/blogs/styled-staged-sold/why-staging-matters-even-in-a-sellers-market

www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/home-improvement/painting/paint-colors-increase-home-value

www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/move-in-ready-ranks-as-no-1-priority-among-2025-homebuyers-bright-mls-national-survey-finds-302346761

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