Sometimes it can seem like just another added expense, but home staging is continuing to prove its value – even in a seller’s market.
According to the Real Estate Staging Association, a staged home spends 73% less time on the market.
But with homes selling so fast, why should you bother springing for the added expense? Well, the current market is making buyers feel bold bidding high above the asking price – so staging could give your home the added leverage it needs to be bumped up into a higher price category.
If you still need convincing – or are looking for the cold, hard facts – we’re two experienced realtors and we’ve created a list of the top 3 reasons why you should stage your home before listing it.
The 2021 National Realtors Association (NRA) report revealed that 82% of buyers’ agents said staging made it easier for their clients to visualize the property as their future home.
Staging provides neutral furnishings to depersonalize a space. You want a prospective buyer to see the potential of a space, and not be distracted by your highly personalized style, belongings, or layout.
Plus, maybe you’re selling your home to a different demographic – if you’re an elderly couple or small family, the main rooms of your home could use a switch up if your property is a downtown location and perfect for a bachelor pad.
Without the neutrality of staging (and catering to your target market), a home showing can feel more like an intrusion to a buyer than them feeling like they’ve stepped into their new home. The easier it is for your prospective buyer to picture themselves living there, the easier the sale.
Staging your home has been repeatedly proven to be a great investment for mid-to-high range sellers.
According to that same NRA report, 31% of sellers’ agents said home staging greatly decreased the amount of time a property spent on the market.
Staged furniture comes with the high-price tag feel without the high cost. An updated, high-end makeover justifies your home in a higher price bracket. 23% of sellers’ agents reported a 1-5% price increase on offers for staged homes, whereas 18% reported a 6-10% increase.
That’s over 40% of sellers’ agents consistently increasing the value of their properties through staging.
The value leverage and quick sales record really come down to increasing the curb appeal of the home. Staging creates the perception of a higher value by demonstrating the home’s potential and highlighting its best assets through professional space design and high-quality furniture.
The home buying process can be confusing and stressful, but we’re here to help!
Professional stagers have decades of experience in the real estate and interior design world: they’re the experts.
Not only are they up to date on the latest design trends that will hook a buyer’s eye, but they can also look at your home objectively and pinpoint the most valuable focal points.
Maybe a different living room layout will feature your bay windows better – or perhaps it’s better to bring in a large dining table or breakfast nook to appeal to young families because your bar stools won’t cut it.
Stagers know how to use your space effectively and creatively to best show off your home. Plus, they have all the industry knowledge to remember things like arranging furniture to suit the flow of a showing or prevent bottlenecks at an open house.
On a more micro level, they have an eye for detail; they know how much clutter is too much, what cookbooks best match the colour palette of your kitchen, and they can spot a crooked frame from a mile away. With staging, you’re paying for the peace of mind that all the details are taken care of so your home can make a flawless first impression.
Ask your realtor about whether staging is a good investment for your property type.
Staging can be a valuable tool to get the best photos of your home for online listings – even if your home is only staged for the photos. This would allow you to continue to live in the space without stressing about using furniture on loan.
Very often, only the main areas of the home get staged like the kitchen, living room, dining room, and maybe the master bedroom. It really depends on what areas of the home could best benefit and demonstrate the largest increase in value through staging.
If you’re feeling unsure where to start and are selling your home in the Ottawa area, get in touch with us. Staging and professional photography are both parts of our all-inclusive realty package because we know there’s so much more to selling a home than a good showing!
