Home Staging

What can be done with existing furniture and some inexpensive props to help a home to sell?

This is the most common question that I get from sellers. Staging is the act of setting up a home with furnishings and accessories for an attractive presentation to buyers. Professional staging companies charge thousands of dollars to bring their expertise and props to help home sellers create an attractive presentation. Sellers, however, can do some simple staging of their own with what they may already have on hand.

During the first meeting, I like to walk through the home with the homeowner to see the home from the perspective of a potential buyer. What would a reasonable buyer expect of the home? Are there any obstructions or odors that may be a turn-off to a buyer?

I like to take note of especially attractive rooms that can be used to spotlight the property. Removing obstacles in the home and creating a welcoming environment for a buyer are the priorities of the in-home marketing strategy.

Some Tips:

REMOVE Clutter!  This is probably the LEAST expensive but MOST important thing for a home seller to do. Clean & simple living is a core of staging.

PRIORITIZE repairs & upgrades.  Buyers tend to want a solid home that appears to be well-cared for. Old & stained carpet, broken toilets, and locks that don't work are some fixes to consider.

Consider CURB APPEAL.  Sellers sometimes spend so much time making the inside look great that they forget about the outside. Trim the lawn/bushes/trees, clean the roof/siding/walkways and consider turning on your exterior lights to welcome prospective buyers to your home.

If it looks bad, it probably is.  Most homeowners have a few nice lamps, tables and sofas to work with. Some fresh flowers and bright lighting throughout the home make a difference, too. Avoid using unsightly furniture in staging. If the couches and tables are old and worn, chances are that buyers may feel like other parts of the home are as well.