Although “Home Staging” is being professionally done more often, the vast majority of home sellers still do not utilize the services of a professional home stager.
It reminds me of Home Inspectors years ago, where they first came into their own in the United States in the 1980’s and migrated to Canada in the 90’s. At first, few people utilized their services but today, the Buyer who does not hire a Home Inspection is the exception. I feel that in a few years, it will be the same for Home Stagers.
When you think about it, almost every Seller and/or Real Estate agent has always been and continue to “stage” their home – they just aren’t using a professional stager. Sellers de-clutter, clean out the basement, the garage; freshen up the paint (or repaint); clean; maybe re-arrange the furniture – all of these activities are in effect, “staging” your home. What you are trying to do is have your home looking its’ best, because, well…you’re trying to sell it!
Have you ever been into a friend or relatives’ home and thought to yourself, “Wow, this home is beautiful – I love the colours, the décor is fantastic, and it really stands out”? Perhaps they have a flair for purchasing some interesting furniture and then placing it properly in a room…for hanging just the right amount of “art” in just the right places…and for picking terrific colours. I assure you, not everyone has the ability or flair to bring their house alive and showcase it to its’ potential.
Enter the professional “Home Stager”. These people are trained to ensure your home is objectively showcased to its’ fullest. The old adage “you only get one opportunity to make a first impression” is never more applicable than when selling your home. Some professionals claim that a prospective buyer has made up their mind within seconds of entering your home, whether they are interested or not! Professional stagers can not only help your home sell for more money but with less time on the market, and that means LESS stress!
Many sellers, after their home has not sold for a few weeks, start dropping the price – they may be better off to leave the price where it is and invest in a professional staging of their home! Remember that your home is in a COMPETITION with other similarly-priced homes offering relatively the same amenities. If it’s YOUR home that stands out, than it is more likely your home will attract the buyers and what follows, the offers.
Should you list your home with me, it includes a FREE home staging consultation with a professional home stager. (Contact me for full details). Together, we all work to ensure that you get the most value for your home, with the least amount of upheaval to your daily life.
