Home staging is an art, an invitation to envision the warmth, beauty, and potential of a space. According to the National Association of Realtors, 58% of buyers' agents shared that home staging impacted most buyers' view of the home a majority of the time. Let’s unwrap the magic behind this art and how you can tap into it yourself.
Fast Facts about Home Staging
- According to TheZebra.com, 82% of buyers' agents stated that staging a home made it easier for buyers to visualize the property as their new home.
- In 2019, home stagers on average charged $400 for their services (National Association of Realtors).
- The home office and guest bedrooms often fall on the lesser importance scale when considering which rooms to stage.
- Homes given the professional staging touch typically find their new owners 73% faster than their unstaged counterparts.
- A little effort upfront pays off: homes staged before listing fetched a whopping 25% more than those left in their everyday state.
Understanding home staging
Home staging, at its essence, is the act of preparing and beautifying a private residence for sale in the real estate marketplace. The goal is to appeal to the largest number of potential buyers, thus securing a swift sale at an excellent price.
The significance of home staging
A beautifully staged home can evoke emotions, create lasting impressions, and most importantly, help potential buyers visualize themselves living in the space. It can be the difference between a quick sale and a property that languishes on the market.
There are a variety of home staging options to consider. From DIY efforts using existing furnishings to hiring professionals with their inventory, the choice depends on budget, time, and desired outcomes.
The DIY approach to home staging
With a keen eye, a touch of creativity, and some elbow grease, homeowners can successfully stage their property without professional help. It's all about presenting the home in the best light and creating inviting spaces.
Expert DIY Home Staging Tips
Declutter
Less is often more. By discarding the superfluous, we open up a world of possibility, making rooms breathe easier and look larger. Each item removed is a step closer to allowing potential buyers to envision their own cherished belongings in the space, unobstructed by clutter.
Deep clean
Every home has a unique aroma and energy, and nothing revitalizes it quite like a deep clean. By scrubbing every surface, you’re not just eliminating dust or grime, but you're inviting warmth and positivity. Walking into a pristine home is like taking a refreshing deep breath, and that’s the sensation buyers should feel.
Neutralize the environment
A home filled with personal mementos might exude warmth for the current occupants but can unintentionally alienate prospective buyers. By creating a neutral canvas, we’re giving them the chance to dream, to paint their own memories and aspirations onto the space.
Opt for calm shades
In the cacophony of life, a home should be a sanctuary. Selecting calm, neutral shades for interiors doesn’t just amplify space but also envelopes visitors in a tranquil embrace, creating an instant connection.
Harness the power of sunlight
Sunlight doesn’t just illuminate; it infuses life into spaces. A home bathed in natural light feels vibrant and alive, echoing with the soft whispers of countless sunrises and sunsets. Drawing back curtains and shining up windows invites this radiant energy inside.
Strategically position furniture
Furniture is more than functional; it's a dance of aesthetics and flow. Positioned thoughtfully, it can guide a visitor's journey through the home, highlighting focal points and creating inviting nooks. It's about orchestrating a harmonious ballet of movement and emotion.
Ensure every space has a purpose
Every corner of a home is a potential story waiting to unfold. By giving each area a clear purpose, be it a serene reading alcove or a vibrant play area, we invite buyers to step into these stories, to see themselves living them out day by day.
Boost your home’s first impression
First impressions are powerful, and often lasting. The exterior of a home is its introduction, its handshake. A manicured lawn, cheerful plants, and a warm, welcoming entrance silently whisper promises of cozy evenings and joyful days ahead.
Home staging pitfalls to avoid
Home staging is a powerful tool in the real estate world, but it's not without its potential pitfalls. To maximize the impact of your staging efforts and attract potential buyers, it's essential to steer clear of common mistakes.
- Over-Personalization: One of the most significant home staging pitfalls to avoid is over-personalization. While your home may be a reflection of your unique personality and style, potential buyers need to envision themselves living in the space. Overloading rooms with personal memorabilia, family photos, or niche decor can make it challenging for buyers to see themselves in the home. Instead, opt for neutral, universally appealing decor and remove personal items to create a more inviting and neutral canvas for potential buyers.
- Neglecting Repairs and Maintenance: Neglecting essential repairs and maintenance is another critical pitfall to steer clear of. Visible issues like leaky faucets, peeling paint, or squeaky floors can detract from a home's appeal and raise concerns about its overall condition. Before staging, address these maintenance issues to present a well-maintained and cared-for property. A little investment in repairs can go a long way in securing a higher selling price and a smoother sale.
- Clutter and Overcrowding: Clutter and overcrowding can quickly turn off potential buyers. Too much furniture, excessive decor, or cluttered countertops can make rooms feel small and cramped. To avoid this pitfall, declutter and depersonalize your space, keeping only the essential furniture and decor items. Creating a sense of openness and flow within each room can help buyers imagine their own furniture and lifestyle in the home, making it more appealing to them.
About The Crutcher & Hartley Team
The Crutcher & Hartley Team is a dynamic group, now boasting six dedicated members. If you're on the hunt for your dream home, thinking of parting with a property, or just curious about the Texas property landscape, reach out to The Crutcher & Hartley Team today.