Our Staging is Next Level
Understanding What Appeals to Buyers
The concept of staging is mainstream enough that we don’t have to go in to the WHY, right? We all have HGTV. But, it’s the HOW that makes us different. Anyone can plop a bowl of fruit and some flowers on the kitchen counter. Our staging is next level.
With an eye for design and a deep understanding of what appeals to buyers, we transform homes, add value and increase salability. The goal of staging is to appeal to a broad range of buyers — in person and in photographs. Remember, most buyers shop online for real estate… compelling photography (which includes staging AND flattering angles/lighting) is crucial. We’re skilled at working with what you have and making affordable adjustments that have maximum impact — all in the spirit of selling your home for the highest price in the shortest amount of time.
Did we mention that this is included in our listing services?
BEFORE & AFTER
Recent Transformations
BEFORE
AFTER
CASE STUDY
Unlikely Staging Inspiration
This was one of our most fun staging ideas. We knew we had to make this area near the front entry POP (Staging 101: first impressions count), but we were stumped on how. It was a large, empty space and we were quickly running out of our staging budget. The seller was cleaning out the closets, and we spotted a box of awesome, classic albums and record player. LIGHTBULB MOMENT! 24 album frames later plus a few hours of careful hanging, and this turned out to be our favorite spot in the house – and one that received the most compliments.
CASE STUDY
Furniture Placement
One of our pet peeves is entering a room and walking into the back of a sofa. It’s just not welcoming and it closes off a room. These two photos were taken from the same angle. Don’t you feel like you breathe in the “After” image? We flipped the room and took down the heavy drapes – instant improvement. We replaced the dozens of small wall photos with a few large prints, added a modern area rug, new sofa pillows and VIOLA! Fresh look with minimal expense.
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
CASE STUDY
Curb Appeal
Staging isn’t limited to interiors. On today’s digital world where buyers have information at their fingertips, many buyers will do a drive-by before contacting an agent. If it’s not compelling, the buyers might cross it off their list before even stepping foot inside. This home was vacant when we listed it, so we added outdoor furniture, accessories and pots of flowers to create curbside charm (plus we chose a flattering angle and waited for a perfect sunny day). The result? Charm galore! The home sold within a week for a price higher than the owners dreamed. Up front effort = tail end success.
STAGING SUGGESTIONS
Thinking of Selling
Here are a few things to consider.
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1. Fresh & Clean
At minimum, start with a deep clean. A dirty house is the quickest way to turn off a buyer. Steam-clean carpets, wash windows and check for sneaky cobwebs outside. Handle maintenance issues and do a light bulb check. Make sure the landscaping is sharp. Paint or stain the front door if needed – ditto with decks. Shine the front door handle. Seriously… first impressions count.
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2. Clutter Free
You’ll going to be moving, so why not get a head start and make your home show better in the process? Try removing half of the contents in your closets, cabinets, etc. Keep the basics and pack, donate or toss anything unnecessary. Need we mention Marie Kondo? Don’t transport your unwanted, unneeded stuff. This is a perfect opportunity start with a clean slate at your new home.
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3. Perfect Placement
Look at your property with fresh eyes – as if you’re a buyer. Stand at the end of your driveway. Does the exterior invite you to come in? Walk in the front door as a guest. Is the entry welcoming or do you have to step over a pile of shoes? We often find people have more furniture than the room can comfortably handle – check that. Is every inch of the kitchen counter filled? The coffee maker can stay, but the juicer gets stashed in the pantry.
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4. Finishing Touches
Little details will push you over the finish line. Place fresh flowers in key areas and make sure the house smells nice (not overwhelming). Add a few updated accessories if it’s been awhile since you’ve redecorated. Mirrors and fresh throw pillows on the sofa are one of our favorite easy upgrades. Add pots of flowers outside and a new door mat. Lastly, tidy up for each showing or all of this effort will be for naught.
Or, Chill and Call Us.
You don’t need to go it alone. We can help navigate the course and handle the details. There are many inexpensive ways to elevate a property that will pay dividends.
Bottom line, this is what we do. And it’s included in our services.
Preparing a house for sale and keeping it “show-ready” requires some effort. But consider this, your home is likely your largest asset. These short-term inconveniences can equate to a substantial increase in value.
