If you’re considering holding an open house, your REALTOR will have an honest conversation with you about any concerns, including whether doing so would contradict current government recommendations or mandates, especially in geographic areas with shelter-in-place mandates. If after discussing these issues, you and your aREALTOR mutually agree to an open house, your agent will discuss necessary precautions to minimize exposure to and the spread of COVID-19.
Staging entails hiring experts with a flair for interior design. They reimagine your living space and give your house a makeover (with temporary decor and furnishings) so that it gets “oohs” and “aahs” from the buying masses.
Great staging isn’t an insurance policy--there’s no guarantee it will bring in more money when you sell your home--but it’s an important marketing tool. It presents your house in a flattering light and helps you compete at a favorable price.
Staging also leads to eye-catching listing photos, which are especially valuable given that most home buyers begin their search by scrolling through listings online.
So, are you thinking about hiring stagers for your home? Here’s what to consider.
Staging Really Does Help. Like, a Lot.
But you don’t have to take our word for it. A recent survey from the National Association of REALTORS revealed that:
- 77% of buyers’ agents said staging makes it easier for their buyer to visualize the property as their future home. It’s like helping the buyer dream it so they can achieve it — and so you and your agent can make the sale.
- 39% of sellers’ agents said staging a home greatly decreases the amount of time a house is on the market. For you, time saved could mean moving into your new house even sooner.
- 21% of sellers’ agents said staging a home increases its dollar value between 6% and 10%. Simply put, that may lead to more money in your pocket.
Before You Stage, Budget Accordingly
Many listing agents offer staging services to clients as part of their services. If you want to use someone you find yourself, you typically will have to pay out of pocket.
Staging costs vary depending on where you live and how many rooms you’re staging. Home sellers can expect to pay $500 to $2,000. If your house is empty because you’ve already moved, you might also have additional expenses for renting furniture and other homey decorations to make it look lived-in.
Many stagers offer consultations for as low as $200 to $300. If you're on a tight budget, your best option may be using the advice you learn during the consultation to try DIY staging. Listen for tips on how to use the furniture and decor you already have to show off your home’s best assets.
Virtual Staging
Keep in mind staging can be conducted virtually these days. If you don't know of any virtual stagers, ask your REALTOR for recommendations. These stagers offer video consultations, where they can advise while you execute the changes. They may also digitally modify images, which must be fully disclosed to buyers.
For the Best Results, Declutter
Spoiler alert: No buyer wants to walk into a messy house. So, take time to clean and declutter your home.
Also worth considering? Removing personal items from view, such as copious family photos, artwork, or religious keepsakes. The concern is not that home buyers will be offended by you or your lifestyle. The goal is to neutralize the space and help home buyers imagine themselves living there. (But don’t go overboard. You don’t want rooms to feel sterile, either.)
To Find the Right Stager for Your Home, Ask Questions
If your REALTOR doesn’t offer staging services, he or she can likely recommend local stagers for you to work with. Before you hire a stager, it’s best to interview at least three candidates in person. You’ll want to get a sense of how much they charge--and whether they have good taste.
To do your due diligence, here are 10 questions to ask prospective stagers:
- On average, how many days were your staged homes on the market last year?
- What price range do you typically work in?
- What styles of homes do you usually stage?
- What formal training have you received?
- Do you have insurance?
- Can I see your portfolio?
- Do you select the accessories, furniture, and paint for the homes you stage, or do you collaborate with other experts?
- What are your rates?
- What’s your availability?
- Can you provide contacts for past clients?
Focus On the Rooms That Count the Most
You don’t have to stage your whole house to make buyers swoon.
Staging the rooms where people tend to spend the most time usually makes the biggest impression on buyers. Start with the living room,followed by the master bedroom and the kitchen.
Keep in mind that you’re not going for an HGTV-worthy overhaul: Even small touches, like putting fluffy towels in the bathroom or replacing shabby throw pillows in the family room, can make your home that much more attractive.
Stage Your Yard, Too
Your house has to look its best--inside and outside. After all, buyers form their first impression when they pull up in front of your home. It’s no surprise, then, that curb appeal--how your home looks from the exterior--can increase your home’s sales value.
Then move on to these easy upgrades to your home’s exterior:
- Wash the front windows.
- Power wash siding and walkways.
- Repaint or stain porches and stairs, as needed.
- Make sure house numbers are easy to see, visible, and pretty.
- Make sure important outdoor features such as the front door, porch, and sidewalks and paths are well lit. (If not, install new fixtures or lighting.)
- Even basic upgrades--like laying fresh mulch, changing porch lights, or installing a new mailbox--can help a buyer fall in love at first sight.
And remember, when it's time to buy or sell your home contact a REALTOR, a member of the ________________ Board of REALTORS.