Frequently Asked Questions
You Have Questions, We Have Answers.
If your questions are not answered below, contact us and we will do whatever we can to help you.
Why should I stage my house?
Staged homes simply sell faster and at a premium. Some analysts estimate that a staged home can garner a 6%-7% higher price; on a $500,000 listing, that’s an extra $30,000 to $35,000.
Moreover, most homebuyers see a wide range of homes before making a purchasing decision. In such an environment, first looks are critical, and compelling, market-appropriate staging designs can leave indelible impressions on buyers. Staging brings out the best in your home, which allows buyers to see the potential.
Additionally, staging helps sellers pack away several items, thus making the moving process smoother.
As I am selling my home anyway, will staging be a good investment?
Staging is a rare opportunity to make a small investment that has a large impact on one of your biggest investments—your house. The money you put into staging will be recouped through higher sales prices and faster sales.
How much does staging cost?
Staging can be very affordable and can vary from small modifications to existing decorations to a complete staging solution for every room in the home. Typical staging costs are about 1% to 3% of the home’s listing price.
Is home staging different from home decorating?
Yes. The goal of staging is to help you sell your home faster and at a premium.
Staging uses exceptionally creative and warm design to make your home appear magnificent and inviting to the largest number of people possible. When buyers see visions of a home’s potential, sellers gain a step ahead of the competition.
Home decorating, however, is a different process that incorporates your specific tastes, design aesthetics, personal history, and other individual elements to make your home a wonderful place for you to live. With home decorating, the goal is for you to enjoy the house, rather than for you to sell the house.
What happens during your staging consultation?
Our thorough initial consultation takes about two hours and involves a detailed examination of your home, budget requirements, and other elements of the sale. We evaluate every room in your house and develop a cogent, clear staging plan that will help maximize your sale price and shorten your sale time. At the conclusion of the consultation, we will discuss pricing and options that include you doing some of the work on your own, if you so choose. In all cases, we are always here to help you create the best staging solution for your home.
How do I prepare for the consultation?
You don’t have to do anything before we arrive. We will need, however, information regarding your sales goals (timing, sales price, etc.) and how much you would like to be involved in the staging process.
Should I stage my home if it’s already vacant?
Yes. Empty homes can be drab or even depressing. Empty homes also invite examination of architectural flaws and lack excitement. A staged home, however, uses creative and warm design to make your home appear magnificent and welcoming to the largest number of people possible. When buyers see visions of a home’s potential, sellers gain a step ahead of the competition.
How long does the staging process take?
Timing depends on the size, condition, state (vacant or lived-in), extent of the staging solution, and other factors of your home. In general, a home can be staged in just a few days to about one to two weeks (for larger projects).
Do I need to be around or involved in the staging?
No. We can execute the entire staging solution without your presence. This allows you to focus on your work and other life matters instead of worrying about staging your home.
Does the market (slow or fast) affect staging?
No. Any market is a good market for staging. It’s simply about selling homes faster and at a premium, and that is a benefit to sellers under any circumstances. In a slow market, however, this can be even more critical to help differentiate your home from the competition.
Can I stage my house by myself?
This is not recommended. Staging involves many specific skills, industry knowledge, marketing experience, and vendor relationships. From design strategies to furniture selection to color coordination, we have the in-depth expertise and staging know-how to make your home look magnificent. Moreover, staging can be a very time-consuming process for homeowners. By working with us, you can outsource this critical function and save a ton of your time.