Monday, November 10, 2014

To Stage or Not to Stage?


Typically when I go on a listing appointment, I will provide a list of things for the homeowner to do before we invite buyers in. This can be as simple as keep everything picked up and show ready to paint, remove items...I've even suggested moving a dog to a family members home (it was big, mean and was going to bite people).

Every seller wants to get the most out of their home and knows getting the home "show ready" and keeping it that way through the sale is an important key.

I get asked about staging quite a bit and honestly I have mixed feelings about it. A WELL PRICED home that is clean and uncluttered generally doesn't need to be staged. There are cases where a vacant home will be more appealing with staging. There is also a price point where the expectation is that the home will look like something out of a magazine. It really is a case by case decision.

Here is a collection of before and after "staging" photos. Note that some of these after have new tile, paint, etc.  Before and after AOL Real Estate

Here is another gallery of staging photos.  Home Staging Gallery  Without a doubt the after pictures are more appealing.



Here's what I recommend:

  • Remove the clutter - take down family pics, remove small tables, stands etc. 
  • Make sure that the room is decorated correctly (no beds in the formal dining, no jungle gyms in the living room, etc), 
  • Clean your house like you're hosting your pickiest family to dine off the floor 
  • Call your favorite Realtor and price the home correctly from day one.
Remember, I always offer free market analysis and showing consultations. 

Have a great week!



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