This apartment went into contract in 18 days, selling for $75,000 over ask with backup offers waiting. Meanwhile, a larger apartment nine floors up sat unsold for months.

This West Village home belonged to two well-known city chefs, beautifully renovated, with one of its two bedrooms turned into a handsome den. We staged it as an eclectic, artful home that spoke directly to the West Village buyer, layered with detail that rewarded a second look.

That larger unit upstairs had an extra bedroom and more space. Ours was lower, smaller, and cost more per foot, yet it was the one that sold.

Square footage gets you in the door. Presentation is what closes.