Tuesday, July 01, 2025
Selling real estate isn’t always fast or simple. Sometimes, success takes time—and a strategy rooted in honesty, trust, and long-term commitment.
This is one of those stories.
A client recently asked me to sell his multi-family home in the Morris Park section of the Bronx. The property had a lot going for it: two renovated apartments, parking, a basement, and a solid location.
But it also came with two challenges:
Tenant occupancy &
A small backyard
While the layout and upgrades were great, the fact that the home had two tenants in place made it a harder sell especially in a market where most buyers are looking to move into the home right away.
🔑 Setting the Right Expectations
When I met with the seller, I was upfront.
I let him know we’d need patience to find the right buyer someone open to purchasing a fully tenant-occupied property at the listed price of $850,000.
We gave it our best effort, but after six months, the home hadn’t sold.
The seller decided to switch agents and try a new approach. I respected his decision, wished him well, and moved forward.
Months later, I saw the property listed again but still unsold.
When I reconnected with the seller, he admitted something that many homeowners come to realize:
“Walter, I should not have left you.”
The agent he’d hired was sending buyers to the house unannounced, disrupting the tenants and frustrating the owner. Despite multiple requests, showings were happening without proper notice. The tenants were upset, and the whole situation had become stressful for everyone involved.
The seller gave me back the listing.
Soon after, one of the tenants informed us she would be moving out and that changed everything. Suddenly, we had a more marketable property with only one tenant in place.
But even then, it wasn’t an instant sale. We went through three more listing agreement renewals before we finally got the right offer.
🏁 The Finish Line
Was this a successful sale?
Absolutely.
Because real estate isn’t always about the quick win it’s about helping clients reach their goals, even when the journey takes longer than expected.
This seller wanted a specific price and was willing to wait for the right buyer. I was happy to support that decision with a long-game strategy, honest communication, and persistence.
In the end, the home sold, and the client was extremely happy.
💬 Thinking of Selling?
Every home is different. Some sell in two weeks. Others take a year or more.
No matter the timeline, I’ll give you realistic guidance, consistent effort, and the care you deserve through every step of the process.
Wondering what your home could sell for or what strategy might work best for you?
Let’s talk. I’m here to help you make confident, informed decisions.
Walter Sarmiento
RE/MAX Distinguished Homes & Properties
📧 walter@sarmientoteam.com | 📞 914-346-8255
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