We just can’t say enough about the wonderful consequences of the staging process. The metamorphosis is always amazing and does not have to be costly for the property owner. Often simply de-cluttering and painting, followed by the right placement of furnishings and accessories can make over many properties.
Even staging a home which has been unoccupied for some time can make all the difference to prospective purchasers who can ultimately envision themselves living in a warm and inviting environment instead of an empty home.
Staging and showcasing can be accomplished within a variety of budget constraints, but should always be considered an investment in maximizing the return to the homeowner, instead of an expense.
Professional stagers can be objective, highlighting the positive features of a property, showcasing the various focal points, and in so doing reminding the homeowner of the original reason for the purchase of the home, even though it may have been many years ago. Oftentimes a homeowner gets so comfortable in their own individual style of living that they lose track of how others may view their arrangements and placements. A return to a more traditional setting may require a short term sacrifice on the part of the owner, but also provides the prospective purchaser with a more conventional and perhaps a more acceptable setting. For example by transforming exercise rooms, playrooms or other uses back into the originally intended bedrooms, the purchaser can envision a family environment which better suits their style of living.
Staging is a three step process when done by a professionally trained stager (Canadian Staging Professionals CSPtm). The first step is a comprehensive consultation, with a written report outlining what work is required prior to the actual hands-on staging process. It requires us to visit the premises for an average of about 1 1/2 hours. It involved an overview of about 15 minutes with the homeowner, followed by our tour and taking of photographs. Our subsequent report provides complete details, from the exterior curb appeal perspective, to a room-by-room breakdown of actions required. We outline which items/furniture should stay and which should be removed or put into storage during the marketing phase (viewings and open houses).
If a homeowner has the time and expertise to perform this work, the second stage or “sweat equity” portion of their input in minor repairs and painting is very cost effective. If time constraints for busy homeowners is an issue (or being unable to capably take on these tasks necessitates hiring professionals), a stager can usually either recommend various companies to carry out the work or with the approval of the owner, oversee the completion themselves, for a fee agree upon by the two parties.
Once this work has been completed, the third or showcasing stage can then proceed. It is a one day process requiring a team of CSPtm staging professionals who come into the home and arrange the furnishings and accessories with a view to making it more attractive to potential buyers. Once completed, the homeowner and/or the real estate agent can proceed immediately with offering the property for viewings and open houses. The competitive advantage of staging over unstaged houses in the neighborhood provides an opportunity to sell faster and with a higher return than similarly priced properties, a true investment in the property, with a recovery of the costs involved in the staging.