My Work: Helping Sellers Win

Moya Robinson
Apr 12
5 min read

Updated: Jun 13

The phrase “I think buyers will still be interested” comes up often, and while optimism is great, it’s a risky assumption in today’s high-priced East Bay market. Over the past two decades, here in the East Bay we’ve seen dramatic shifts in both real estate values and the job market, not to mention the unique challenges places like Oakland (even Piedmont) now faces when it comes to perception and reputation.

Today’s first-time buyers many of whom work in tech, biotech, or adjacent industries are cautious, analytical, and deeply value-driven. They need close to half a million dollars just to purchase a condo with a $600+ HOA, and upwards of $800,000 to $1 million to enter the single-family home market in neighborhoods with solid school districts. In todays market we face tariffs which impact the stock market 401k's and investment accounts, and with interest rates at around 7%, and todays buyers are sharper than ever and highly discerning. Even downsizers are looking for value and often face challenges with interest rates requiring financing strategies and large downpayments from a previous sale to make it work. Both spot flaws quickly, and they expect homes to reflect the level of investment required to compete in this market.

That’s why preparation isn’t optional, it’s essential. In a market where buyers are stretching just to get in the door, with interest rates hovering at 7% they expect homes to be move-in ready, thoughtfully presented, and priced with precision. There’s a tipping point in every listing where a buyer shifts from interested to motivated—and that tipping point is usually reached through presentation. Small details can either elevate a home or hold it back: a dated light fixture, worn paint, or cluttered layout can cause hesitation, while clean lines, fresh finishes, and strategic styling create emotional engagement. When a home is prepped intentionally and priced strategically, it positions the seller to receive strong offers—and often faster results. The key is knowing where that tipping point is and how to reach it.

With today’s interest rates still hovering at levels that make every monthly payment count, buyers are more discerning than ever. They’re calculating not just the price of the home, but the cost of future upgrades, repairs, and stress. That’s why getting your home dialed in from the start can make all the difference. My role is to help you identify exactly what needs to be done..and just as importantly, what doesn’t, to reach that tipping point where your home feels like the obvious choice. From prep to pricing to presentation, I guide my clients through each step with a clear plan so they feel confident, informed, and ultimately… successful.

One of the hardest things I’ve had to learn as a real estate professional, and as someone who truly cares, is how to lovingly step back and let people choose their own outcomes.

I always want the best for my clients. I can see their home’s potential. I know the strategy that works. On any given day offers on 5-10 East bay homes are being heard by my colleagues and we know which ones will do well and which ones won’t just by giving the home and the list price a 5 second glance. I know how to bring in top-dollar offers.

I think about what Mel Robbins often says: “No one is coming. It’s up to you.” And as much as I’m here to guide, educate, and cheerlead… it’s also up to the homeowner to decide if they’re ready to trust the process.

Why I Care So Much About Home Prep

When someone chooses me to help them sell their home, it’s personal.

This isn’t just a transaction to me—it’s someone’s future. Their equity. Their fresh start.

So when I walk into a home and see the potential—that light-filled corner that could be a buyer’s dream reading nook, or the dated bathroom that could be transformed with a $150 paint-and-mirror update—I want to step in and do it all.

But here’s the thing: I’ve learned the most respectful and empowering thing I can do is show my clients the strategy, and then let them take the lead.

Because real estate is emotional. It’s your home. Your memories. Your decisions. And I want you to feel like you’re in charge of the process—even if I’m in the background helping every step of the way.

The Truth About What Gets Homes Sold

Let’s talk strategy. Here’s what works. Every time. No mystery, just proven steps.

Declutter + Depersonalize

This is the first and sometimes the hardest step. But it works. Think clean, open, calm—not bare. Remove personal photos and let the space breathe. This isn’t erasing your story—it’s creating space for the next one.

Clean + Repair

Fix the drippy faucet. Patch the hole from the old curtain rod. Re-caulk the bathroom. These small repairs tell buyers: this home has been loved and cared for.

Paint + Light Updates

A fresh coat of paint in the right shade (I’ll help you choose) does wonders. Lighting updates, new switch plates, and fresh hardware—these are low-cost, high-impact ways to say this home is move-in ready.

Staging + Style

This doesn’t mean spending a fortune. Even light styling or rearranging furniture can help buyers see the space clearly. It’s about intention. And yes, I have staging options to fit different budgets and timelines.

Curb Appeal + Atmosphere

Buyers decide in the first 8 seconds how they feel about your home. That’s why I pay close attention to the front door, the scent, the music, the lighting—all the little things that make people say, “Wow.”

Trust Is the Secret Ingredient

When I talk to homeowners about making changes, especially cosmetic ones, sometimes I see hesitation. It might sound like:

“But I love this color.”
“People can see past that.”
“Shouldn’t they love it for what it is?”

And I get it. I do.

But here’s what I’ve learned: The homes that perform best are the ones where sellers trust the process. It’s not about selling out, it’s about showing up with strategy.

You’re not being asked to erase your identity, you’re being empowered to highlight the best version of your home.

When You’re Ready, I’m Here

I want to pull back the curtain on the real formula for success, because there’s no mystery here. Just intention. And when you’re ready, I’m right here to help.

So if you’re reading this and thinking, “I don’t know if I’m ready,” that’s okay.

This is an invitation. Not a push.

When you’re ready to get serious about results, I’ll help you create a custom plan that:

Maximizes your return
Respects your timeline and budget
Feels empowering, not overwhelming

I’ll walk you through every step, connect you with trusted vendors, and help you take your home from “lived-in” to “market-ready” without losing your mind—or your soul.