Is staging just for high-end homes?
Absolutely not! Often, more modestly priced homes benefit the most from staging services. For instance, a smaller home may need staging help to showcase optimal space use and function.
How do I find a qualified stager?
A referral is your best bet or your REALTOR® may know of a qualified stager. It's important your stager bring an experienced, objective eye to your home. An effective stager also needs to be aware of local sales conditions, buyer psychology, and is adaptable to the sales needs of any style of home. A good stager will be able to work with your furniture/furnishings to effectively stage and will also offer a good inventory of accessories, if needed. Be sure your stager is licensed and insured.
Why does a staged home show better?
Buyers typically spend only a few seconds in a room and 10-15 minutes in the whole house. If they see things that turn them off, they are likely to let those feelings affect their overall opinion of a house. In the current sales market, there are no second chances!
What about statistics for staged homes?
Several studies have been done that speak to the success of staging. However, there are no scientifically definitive statistics. These studies all required subjective interpretation of results or relied on opinion. Our actual experience only confirms how difficult it is to present "firm" stats. We have staged vacancies that sold in just weeks after having been on the market for a year or more; staging or coincidence? We've also had properties that were beautifully staged but had price or location issues and took much longer to sell. One thing is for certain: the feedback from viewings for properties we have staged is always favorable in terms of how the home shows. As professional stagers, we address maintenance, cosmetics, and presentation. If price, location, and other factors beyond our control are preventing a sale, we cannot guarantee that staging will result in a faster, more profitable sale. We can say most properties will benefit from staging - it's always a good idea to put the best foot forward! You never know when your buyer will walk through the front door.
Can I do the staging?
There are certainly many things a seller can do to facilitate the staging process (decluttering, cleaning, repairs). However, a professional, experienced stager brings the most important tools to a home: skill, creativity and objectivity.
Why stage a vacant home?
Builders have always known that furnished properties show better: that's why they furnish their models. Also, many people have difficulty with visualization. Staging a vacancy will help buyers see a room's possibilities both in person and in photos. The National Association of Realtors estimates that more than 80% of buyers start their home searches on the Internet…showing them pictures of vacant rooms can immediately place a home in the "pass" pile. IMPORTANT NOTE: if you have a vacant property, it is imperative that you check with your insurance company about what may and may not be covered.
Will it be difficult to live in a staged home?
Motivated sellers know they will have to do some things on a daily basis to keep a home in showable condition and an experienced stager will work with a seller to suggest a practical maintenance plan. Over the years, many clients have commented they like living in a "staged" home: less clutter, more organization, easier to care for.
