Staging becomes a Real Estate industry standard for a reason. It used to be up to the sellers how to prepare their house for showing to potential buyers. Mostly it was a task of cleaning and de-cluttering.

However, Staging is an Art of showcasing your property to achieve top dollar and quick sale. The key word is ‘the property’, not your personal décor style.

In fact, Stagers remove your personality from your home so the buyers can imagine themselves living there. Remember: Homebuyers are looking for their new home, not yours. Staging reveals it to them.

How you decorate for living and how you decorate for selling is quite different. How you live is about the function. To sell, you have to know how to open up the space, highlight the best features and show the buyer how to work with the complicated spaces such as niches, nooks, etc.

Keep in mind, that the Real Estate Market reflects the general demographic picture. More and more downsizing baby boomers are selling to 37+ old professionals with growing families. With only 10% of the population having the ability to envision, to see past the décor style of a different generation becomes a challenge.

Is it better stage in the down or hot market? Considering that statistically Staged properties sell for 6-10% more and up to twice as faster, it does not really matter.

What services should you expect from a Stager? As a minimum, a Stager can come in for a consultation to advise you on the best for sale décor & colour, necessary minor repairs, and beneficial upgrades. Staging services may include clutter elimination, furniture re-arrangement, bringing in props, assisting in painting and in enhancing curb appeal. Significant part of the business is a vacant properties Staging. You know that no homebuilding company would risk selling without a show home. You should not risk your life’s largest investment selling without Staging either.

How expensive Staging is? Staging fees are normally absorbed into the listing price of your property and always, always less than the price reduction. Fee range varies depending on the level of service you want. On average it is from 1 to 3% of the listing price of your property. However, if you have a limited budget, a Stager will work with you to spread your dollar wisely to make the most impact.

Can you do it yourself? If you know the difference between neutral and bland, have some background in architectural design or the like, you should try. Otherwise, let the professionals with unbiased eyes look at your property like your buyer would. You know how to brush and floss your teeth, but still going to the dentist, don’t you?

Article Courtesy of Nina Poddubneac
Shoestring Design – Making Your Home Loveable

Home Staging & Interior Decorating

Email : info@shoe-string-design.com

Phone: 780.700.2333