We all know that first impressions are important, but many don’t know that they are crucial when it comes to selling a home. That’s where home staging comes in. Home staging is the process of preparing a property for sale by making it look its best for potential buyers. The goal of home staging is to highlight the home’s best features, make it feel inviting and spacious, and create an emotional connection with buyers. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of home staging, share some tips for staging your home, and discuss the benefits of hiring a professional stager.
Benefits of Home Staging
If you’re wondering whether home staging is worth the investment, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Here are some of the benefits of home staging:
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Increase in perceived home value: When a home is staged, it can appear more valuable to buyers, which can translate into a higher sale price. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), the average staging investment is between 1% and 3% of the home’s asking price, which can generate a return on investment of 8% to 10%.
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Faster home sale: Staged homes tend to sell faster than non-staged homes. According to the NAR, 83% of buyers’ agents said that staging a home made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as their future home.
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Higher return on investment (ROI): Home staging is an investment that can pay off in the long run. According to a survey by the NAR, the median cost of staging a home is $400, but the potential return on investment is $1,600.
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Enhanced online listing photos and virtual tours: In today’s digital age, buyers often begin their home search online. Staged homes tend to photograph better than non-staged homes, which can make a big difference in how the home appears online. Staged homes also tend to show better in virtual tours, which are becoming increasingly popular.
Staging Tips
Now that you know the benefits of home staging, let’s look at some tips for staging your home:
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Declutter and depersonalize: The first step in staging your home is to declutter and depersonalize. Buyers need to be able to envision themselves living in the home, and that can be difficult if the home is cluttered with personal items.
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Clean and freshen up: A clean home is a must for staging. Make sure your home is spotless before you start showing it to potential buyers.
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Use neutral colors and decor: Neutral colors and decor can help buyers envision their own belongings in the home. Avoid bright or bold colors that may be too specific to your taste.
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Highlight key features of the home: Showcase the best features of your home, whether it’s a beautiful fireplace or a stunning view. Make sure these features are clean, uncluttered, and well-lit.
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Maximize natural light: Buyers love natural light, so make sure your home is well-lit by opening curtains and blinds, and removing any obstacles that may be blocking natural light.
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Use furniture to create a sense of space and flow: Make sure furniture is arranged in a way that maximizes space and creates a natural flow through the home. Avoid blocking doorways or walkways.
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Enhance curb appeal: The outside of your home is the first thing buyers see, so make sure it looks its best. This includes landscaping, the front porch, and the exterior of the home itself. A fresh coat of paint on the exterior of the house can really go a long way in making the house look brand new.
Room-by-Room Staging Tips
Here are some room-by-room staging tips to help you create an inviting and appealing home for potential buyers:
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Living Room: Make the living room the focal point of the home by arranging furniture in a conversational grouping. Add throw pillows and a cozy blanket to the couch, and add a rug to define the space.
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Kitchen: Remove all clutter from the kitchen counters, and showcase any high-end appliances or features of the kitchen. Make sure the sink and countertops are spotless, and add a bowl of fresh fruit or a bouquet of flowers to the table.
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Master Bedroom: Create a luxurious and serene atmosphere in the master bedroom by making the bed the centerpiece of the room. Use high-quality bedding and add a few accent pillows. Remove any personal items or clutter, and make sure the closet is clean and organized.
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Bathrooms: Make sure the bathrooms are sparkling clean and free of any personal items. Add fresh towels, a new shower curtain, and some decorative items like candles or plants.
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Outdoor Spaces: Make sure your outdoor spaces are inviting by adding some outdoor furniture, plants, and lighting. Clean up any debris or clutter, and make sure any lawn or garden areas are well-maintained.
Why Work with a Professional?
Hiring a professional stager can be a game-changer when it comes to selling your home. A professional stager has the experience and expertise to create a cohesive and visually appealing space that will appeal to potential buyers. They can also provide a fresh perspective and objective eye to help identify any areas that need improvement. Personally, I use Kim with Sunshine Staging & Design for all my clients in the greater Palm Springs area. Her work is fantastic, and I highly recommend her services to anyone looking to sell their home.
Kim has a keen eye for design and an impressive portfolio of successful staging projects. Her work consistently transforms homes into showpieces that attract buyers and drive-up sale prices. Her approach to home staging is both practical and creative, emphasizing the unique features of each home while creating a welcoming, neutral environment that appeals to a wide range of buyers.
To see some of Kim’s work, check out her website or follow her on Instagram. Her website provides detailed information about her services, as well as a gallery of photos from past projects. Her Instagram account is also a great resource for anyone looking for inspiration and ideas for home staging.
When hiring a professional stager, it’s important to choose someone who understands the local real estate market and has a proven track record of success. With Kim’s experience and talent, you can be confident that your home will stand out in the crowded real estate market and attract serious buyers. Don’t hesitate to reach out to her for a consultation and see how she can help you sell your home faster and for a higher price.
Home staging is an essential part of selling a home in today’s market. By showcasing your home’s best features and creating an inviting and appealing space, you can increase the perceived value of your home, sell it faster, and get a higher return on investment. By following these tips and considering the benefits of hiring a professional stager, you can create a home that will stand out in the crowded real estate market.
