Why Should You Stage?

Christina is back from The Staging Group to do her next blog post in our staging series, take it away.....

Hello Again,

In my last blog I addressed the question of "What is staging anyway?" As a brief re-cap I have added a few points below:

• Staging is not just de-cluttering, de-personalizing and re-decorating. Staging is your #1 marketing tool when selling your home.
• We help determine the target market, evaluate your property "from the buyers' eyes" and analyze where to invest in the property to provide you the highest return on investment.
• Develop a plan specific to you, your timeline, budget and goals in order to get your property ready to stage
• Staging or showcasing transforms a home into a "model suite" using techniques such as space optimization, lighting, accessories and art to highlight focal points, optimize the traffic flow and help buyers become emotionally connected.

Now that we are all up to speed on how many different elements are involved with staging, let's address the question of "Why should I stage my house?" Here are a few things to consider:

Why Do I Need A Stager?

Homes that have not been staged take 67% more time to sell then homes that have been staged. Staged homes sell for more money then non-staged homes. Buyers are looking for a move in ready home NOT projects and to do lists.
Staged homes look better in MLS pictures and therefore draw a larger group of potential buyers to view the home.

Can't Buyers Use Their Imagination?

Some buyers can't or don't want to use their imagination. some people find it difficult to see beyond what's in front of them and see the potential that a property has to offer. Staging shows them exactly what the benefits are of a property and allows them to develop an emotional connection.

I Love My Decor, Why Change It?

The way you have decorated your home works well for the way you live. However, this may not work for selling your home. Staging takes away the personal elements of the home's decor and allows the buyers to see their belongings in the space and really see themselves living there.

Can't I Do It Myself?

You have an emotional, vested interest in your home and your belongings. A professional home stager can walk through your property and quickly make suggestions that are completely objective and that will give you the best return on investment.

In summary....staging works! Numerous studies have been conducted by organizations such as Home Gain and The Maritz Research Group, that have proven staged properties sell faster and for more money then properties that have not been staged.

My next blog post will address the questions, "I have decided to stage my house. Now what?" along with "How do I live in my house after it has been staged?"

Thanks for reading!

Christina Thurston

Thanks again Christina for a very informative post, can't wait to read your next one!

For more information about what The Staging Group can do for you, please visit them at http://www.thestaginggroup.ca/ or email Christina at christina@thestaginggroup.ca You can also follow The Staging Group on Twitter @thestaginggroup and like them on Facebook.

What are your thoughts on staging? Would you ever using a staging company to sell your home?