Despite the insanity that’s overcome the real estate market, what’s remained a constant and critical priority is the importance of staging a home. House staging can be deceiving, though - it’s not all created equal. There is a difference between photography staging and staging for an open house when staging a home for sale.
Start staging your home when you first prepare to sell. The priority should be to have the best possible photos of a home. It’s a strategic marketing approach that allows you to highlight a home’s features.
After 20 years in this industry, I’m laying out my best five tips that have consistently helped me close successful sales.
1. DECLUTTER & MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS
When staging a home for sale, focus on the property itself, not your personal belongings. Remove clutter and carefully style the space to appeal to potential buyers. Some of the most beautiful things in our homes can distract from the home’s highlights. Remember - less is more.
What about the art on the walls? Is there a place for paintings, sculptures, and other decorative items in a staged home? They can add color and interest to a space. They can also be distracting.
What's the best course of action? If it's a large or very ornate piece, it's probably best to remove it. Small items and simple prints can often be left in place. The key is to use judgment and make sure that the art does not overpower the room and create a distraction.
2. YAY OR NAY?
When staging a home, you want to present it in its best light, which means carefully curating accessories. Certain items can add a touch of warmth and interest without becoming a distraction. Use monochromatic items to add a little bit of depth and dimension without taking away from the room's overall look. In general, the goal is to add without taking away and to create an inviting space that potential buyers will be able to see themselves living in. By using just a few well-chosen accessories, you can make a significant impact on the home's overall feel.
3. REMOVE AREA RUGS
Area rugs can add a lot of personality to a room. They're cozy, comfy, and can tie a space together; however, they can also become a distraction and cover up floors that are often a selling feature in the home. When we are staging a home, we simply roll up the rugs and hide them. Doing this will also make the room look bigger. Ultimately, it's all about what looks best when you first walk into a room or to the camera lens - so don't be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect setup.
4. LET THE LIGHT SHINE
Pay close attention to the lighting in each room. Natural light is always best, so make sure that all curtains and blinds are open when taking photos and showing a home. If a room does not have any windows, be sure to turn on all the lights so that the space appears bright and inviting.
5. OUTDOOR STAGING
Outdoor house staging and curb appeal are some of the most critical aspects of selling a house. When potential buyers drive by, they should see that the home is well-cared for and that the landscaping is welcoming. The details on the outside of the house need to be taken care of - from painting to window washing to trimming the hedges to planting seasonal flowers to brighten up a space.
If it's too cold to use the outdoor furniture, consider virtually staging outdoor areas. This is editing photos to make spaces look the way you want them to, without actually having to bring in any furniture. It's a great way to show potential buyers what the area could be used for and help them envision themselves living there. In addition, virtually staging an exterior space can give buyers a better understanding of the size and layout of the outdoor areas.
In summer homes, it's important to show potential buyers how they can enjoy the outdoors even when the weather isn't perfect. Whether selling a summer home or a year-round residence, outdoor staging is an essential part of the process. This first impression can be the difference between getting an offer and having your house sit on the market.
Where to Start
As you start thinking about staging a home, whether for listing photos or an open house, you will see it is a different talent altogether. You need to make sure that you know the small details that make a big difference in how your home looks online. You don't get a second chance to make a first impression, so you must do it right the first time. We know that the photos are everything and if you're not sure how to do it yourself, just contact us, and we'll do it for you. For more tips on selling your home, check out our other blog posts or watch our videos.
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