Just Sold: Ocean-View Condo in Monterey | How Strategic Preparation and Negotiation Delivered Strong Results
Selling a condo with an ocean view on the Monterey Peninsula should be straightforward — but in practice, maximizing value often comes down to preparation, strategy, and execution.
This recent sale is a great example of how thoughtful pre‑market work and disciplined marketing can significantly impact both price and terms, even in a competitive and nuanced coastal market.
The Property
This sale involved an ocean-view condominium at 164 Mar Vista Dr in Monterey, a property with strong natural appeal but one that required thoughtful preparation before going live.
Like many coastal condos on the Monterey Peninsula, the goal was not simply to list the home, but to position it correctly so buyers could clearly see both the lifestyle and the value.
Pre‑Market Preparation: Setting the Foundation
Before launching the listing, we addressed several key items that directly influenced buyer perception and confidence:
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Interior painting to brighten and modernize the space
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Repairing a broken window
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Repairing damaged doors
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Removing dated window coverings to maximize natural light and ocean views
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Full professional staging to help buyers visualize the space
This phase is often where value is either created or lost. Addressing these items upfront allowed us to present the home as move‑in ready, reduce buyer objections, and strengthen our negotiating position later.
High‑Impact Marketing Strategy
Once the property was prepared, we rolled out a comprehensive marketing plan designed to showcase the lifestyle, not just the square footage.
Marketing included:
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Professional HD photography
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Lifestyle video highlighting the ocean‑view coastal setting
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3D walkthrough for remote and out‑of‑area buyers
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2D floor plan for clarity and flow
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HD printed brochures
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Silver envelope announcement campaign
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Targeted YouTube advertising
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Professional interior cleaning
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Professional window cleaning
This layered approach ensured maximum exposure across digital, print, and social channels — reaching both local buyers and those searching for Monterey coastal properties from afar.
Time on Market: Under Two Weeks
The result of proper preparation and strategic marketing was immediate.
The condo sold in just under two weeks, with strong buyer interest early in the listing period. By generating momentum quickly, we were able to control the pace of negotiations rather than reacting to them.
Negotiation Wins That Mattered
Beyond speed, the most important wins on this sale came during negotiations.
Key negotiated terms included:
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Removal of the buyer’s appraisal contingency, significantly reducing risk for the seller
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Buyer assumption of a future HOA assessment totaling approximately $14,000, a major financial win that directly protected the seller’s bottom line
These terms were achieved because the property was well‑positioned, buyer confidence was high, and we entered negotiations from a position of strength.
Why This Sale Matters
Seller Takeaways
For homeowners considering selling a condo on the Monterey Peninsula, this sale highlights several important lessons:
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Strategic pre-market preparation often leads to stronger offers and smoother negotiations
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Professional marketing helps buyers see value beyond square footage
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Early momentum can create leverage when negotiating terms
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Removing contingencies and shifting future costs can be just as impactful as price
Thoughtful planning before going to market can significantly improve both outcome and peace of mind for sellers.
This transaction highlights an important truth about selling real estate on the Monterey Peninsula:
Price is important — but terms, risk reduction, and preparation often matter just as much.
By investing in the right pre‑market improvements, executing a disciplined marketing plan, and negotiating strategically, sellers can often achieve outcomes that go well beyond the headline sales price.
Thinking About Selling a Condo in Monterey?
If you’re considering selling a condo in Monterey or elsewhere on the Monterey Peninsula — especially a property with ocean views — understanding how to prepare, market, and negotiate effectively can make a meaningful difference.
For additional insight, explore:
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Monterey condos and coastal properties
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Seller resources and home preparation guidance
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Recent Monterey Peninsula real estate case studies
I’m always happy to provide honest guidance on:
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Pre-market preparation
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Pricing strategy
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Marketing approach
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How to minimize risk and maximize net proceeds
Every property is different, but the right strategy can change the outcome.
If you’re considering selling a condo in Monterey or elsewhere on the Monterey Peninsula — especially a property with ocean views — understanding how to prepare, market, and negotiate effectively can make a meaningful difference.
I’m always happy to provide honest guidance on:
-
Pre‑market preparation
-
Pricing strategy
-
Marketing approach
-
How to minimize risk and maximize net proceeds
Every property is different, but the right strategy can change the outcome.
If you’re exploring your options or just want a clear picture of today’s market, feel free to reach out.
