Answers by Stewart Ramirez

Yes! If you can, I’d absolutely convert it back to a bedroom before listing. Buyers shop by bedroom count first, so a true four bedroom home will get way more eyes on it than a three bedroom with an office. The best part is you don’t lose the “office” appeal, because you can still stage it as a workspace so buyers see the flexibility. It’s really about getting them in the door first… and bedroom count does that.

I wouldn’t do a full remodel this close to listing. It's going to cost you too much time, too much money, and buyers rarely pay you back dollar-for-dollar. What does move the needle is making the kitchen feel fresh and current. Painting the cabinets, adding quartz (BIG return), updating hardware, and going stainless gives you that updated look buyers want without over-improving for the neighborhood. Plus, a fully renovated kitchen can sometimes price you above your buyer pool. Clean, updated, and move-in ready tends to hit the sweet spot.

Hey Monica, It’s honestly a little surprising that your agent reacted that way. Interviewing multiple agents is completely normal and SMART. This is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and you should absolutely feel confident in who you hire. Strong agents expect to be interviewed and are prepared to answer questions, address concerns, and clearly show what sets them apart- Whether that’s experience, marketing strategy, or results. The important part is you chose her and have had a good experience overall. If anything, that should be reassuring to her, not offensive. It may have just come out awkwardly in the moment, but you didn’t do anything wrong here. PS. Shoutout to Oak Park- I grew up there :)

Yes, you’ll need to sign a listing agreement before going live. That agreement clearly outlines what you’re paying your own agent and whether you’re offering any compensation to a buyer’s agent. You’re not required to offer buyer-agent compensation, but it’s important to understand the impact. If nothing is offered, buyers may have to pay their agent out of pocket. This can limit your buyer pool and reduce showings. In my experience in this market, not offering compensation can have a noticeable impact on activity and overall results. Bottom line: your agent is required to have everything in writing, and while compensation is negotiable, offering it is often a strategic decision to maximize exposure and attract more buyers.