What is staging?

Staging is the art of preparing a home to sell by a professional who specializes in this form of decorating. Staging sets a home apart from it’s competition and helps potential buyers instantly imagine themselves living in the home, through a fresh, neutral design. .

What does it cost?

Staging is an investment, not an expense. The return on investment for any size staging project can typically run 200 - 300 percent. A detailed recommendation list often starts around $300, while staging a newly-constructed vacant home can run into the thousands. Most home staging falls somewhere in between and is based on size and condition of the home, and the homeowner's budget.

Will I have to buy furniture or accessories?

No. To stay within budget, we stage with as much of the homeowner's furnishings, as possible. It may mean simply moving some items to “new” locations for a freshened look. We even “shop” around the home, to look for accessories to use in a new way, to create a whole new look and feel. Typically, some new linens, window treatments and accessories are needed to add that “special touch” to appeal to the majority of homebuyers, but are normally included as rental items in the staging estimate.

I have to pack and store things even before I move?

Think of it as getting a “jump on” your ultimate move to your new home. While your home is on the market, it should not be crowded with furnishings or displays of personal items and collections. They make it hard for potential buyers to envision themselves in the space. Safely packing away these possessions will give your home a more spacious feel and really highlight the home's features.

Can I do this work myself?

Given the time, and armed with an in-depth recommendation list, you may choose to do as much or as little of the work yourself, as your particular budget allows. But it is the “eye” of a professional that will transform your home to a beautiful neutral space with universal appeal. We can hire and supervise contractors for paint, repair or landscaping needs, help you pack and store belongings, or simply make needed recommendations.

My home is empty. How can it look more spacious and neutral than that?

Statistics show that only about 10% of buyers can envision themselves in a space that is empty. Furnishings and decor add the frame of reference needed for size and scale. We strive for the “wow! factor” when buyers first enter the home (or even before) and want to have them feel right at home, instantly. A vacant home, while certainly spacious, is cold and uninviting. Staging makes all the difference and will get your home sold more quickly!