One recent survey suggested that 77 percent of buyers’ agents claimed that staging a home made it easier to visualize themselves owning the home. Staging a home can certainly make a difference in the sale of your home. While most real estate agents do not stage all homes they sell, the truth is that good reason exists to consider it.
Are you struggling to stage homes so they sell efficiently? This guide will provide you with some tips you can use to stage homes to perfection.
Staging a Home Makes a Difference
A significant amount of sellers’ real estate agents claim staging a home typically decreases its time on the market. Of course, some agents believe staging could actually increase a home’s time on the market. You should use your best judgment for each house you sell.
If you stage a home, you can expect to see the biggest increase in home values if you decorate a home to appeal to the largest group of buyers. People want to envision their own belongings in the home, so keep it neutral and spaced out.
Staging Specific Rooms Is Most Helpful
The most important room for real estate agents to stage is the living room. The living room should be a light neutral, perhaps an ivory or gray tone. Put away any personal mementos or family photos. Keep the furniture simple too, offering just a couch, coffee table, and possibly just one or two seats.
The master bedroom is also important to stage. A calm beige and matching bedspread with many pillows adds a professional touch. A bed, nightstand, dresser, and mirror are all you really need to create a homey atmosphere. Don’t ignore window dressings in the bedroom.
Next is the kitchen. The most important thing is for the kitchen to be clean and odor-free. Take the trash out, run the garbage disposal, and pay close attention to any potential dirt spots. Organize the pantries and clear the counters.
Alternatives to Staging a Home
Keep in mind that staging a home does not necessarily mean it will sell at a higher price. While it may appeal more quickly to buyers, your clients should not expect to receive much more than they are asking for it.
Don’t forget the impact lighting and window dressings have on a room.
Not every home is fit for staging. Sometimes, the best you can do is declutter a home and make some repairs. Notable repairs and steps to take during staging include:
- Fixing drywall holes
- Removing stains in the carpet
- De-personalizing the home
- Improving curb appeal
- Removing evidence of pets
- Painting walls
Even if you do not hire somebody to stage the home professionally, making the home as clean and neutral as possible is critical if you want your efforts to pay off.
Learn More About Effective Selling Practices
Staying up-to-date on best practices for selling homes is a fantastic way to continue providing your clients a helpful service. We offer many different real estate continuing education courses to meet your needs. Ready to learn more? Choose your state now and get started!
