Real Estate Staging
Real estate staging is the art of preparing homes for sale so their best features are showcased, and problem areas minimized.
Most home buyers are visual. They have difficulty envisioning how a home could look with their furnishings. Therefore, it’s critical to “set the stage” or “paint the picture” for them. It’s the stager’s responsibility to look at the home through the buyer’s eye.
The ultimate goal of staging is to prepare the home for showcase condition so it sells at its best possible price in the shortest time possible.
Why is Real Estate Staging Important?
- Creates a positive first impression… and you never get a second chance at that!
- Helps buyers see a home’s potential, and envision themselves living there.
- Helps obtain the best possible selling price. A well-presented property often is perceived as being a well-maintained one, and buyers are less likely to discount their offer for repairs and improvements.
- A staged home stands out from other properties in the same price range.
Homes tend to sell faster in a slow market and sell for more in an active real estate market. In a 2004 survey of Realtors, almost two-thirds estimated that a staged home kept in “show to sell" condition sells for a price between 10% and 20% higher.
Previews
Before a real estate staging, we will do a preview of the home to assess the rooms, to complete a proposal/bid for the project, to determine if assistants are needed, and to determine what the homeowner will need to do to prepare the space for the redesign process. Previews generally take about 30 minutes, and there is no charge.
Staging Consultations
If you simply want some guidance and direction before staging a home for sale, a consultation may be all you need. Consultations are an in-depth look at the home (inside and out), addressing both the positive and negative aspects. We will assess the overall layout of the space, including furnishings, lighting, flooring, window treatments and color. In addition, we’ll pay close attention to balance, flow, focal points and first impressions. (Remember, there is no “second” first impression!) Consultations generally take 1-2 hours, and a detailed report of suggestions is provided for a flat fee.