According to a study from the National Association of Realtors, 58% of buyers' agents agreed that home staging significantly influences most buyers' perception of a house, while 31% believed that staging impacts buyers' opinions, albeit not consistently.
Fast Facts about Home Staging
Data from TheZebra.com reveals that 82% of buyers' agents acknowledge that staging a home assists potential buyers in visualizing the property as their future residence. Around 47% of real estate agents believe home staging significantly influences most buyers' perceptions of the house. In 2019, the typical expenditure on home staging amounted to $400, as stated by the National Association of Realtors.
Interestingly, the home office and guest bedrooms are the two rooms considered least crucial to stage. But despite this, the benefits of professional staging are clear: homes professionally staged spend 73% less time on the market compared to their unstaged counterparts. What's more, homes staged before being listed sell for 25% more than homes not staged.
What is Home Staging?
Home staging involves preparing a residence for sale in the real estate marketplace. Staging aims to make a home appealing to the most potential buyers, thereby selling a property more swiftly and for more money.
Home staging plays a crucial role in selling a property quickly and at the best possible price. By highlighting a home's strengths and downplaying its weaknesses, home staging helps potential buyers visualize themselves living in the home, making it more attractive and appealing.
Your Options for Home Staging
When considering home staging, there are several routes you can take. You can stage the home yourself, hire a professional stager, or seek the advice and services of a real estate agent with expertise in staging. The best option depends on your budget, time constraints, and the condition of your home.
Is DIY Home Staging Possible?
Absolutely, homeowners can definitely take on the task of staging their homes themselves. With a discerning eye, a bit of creativity, and a lot of effort, homeowners can stage their homes effectively, saving on the cost of professional services.
Can Real Estate Agents Assist in Staging My Home?
Yes, real estate agents often offer home staging as part of their services. They have a keen understanding of what potential buyers are looking for and can provide valuable advice on how to present your home in the best possible light.
The Role of Professional Home Stagers
Professional home stagers are experts in making homes appeal to as many potential buyers as possible. They have the skills and knowledge to transform any space into a warm and inviting environment that potential buyers can see themselves living in.
The Cost of Home Staging
Home staging costs can vary widely depending on the size of your home, the number of rooms to be staged, and whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional stager. As mentioned earlier, the average expenditure on home staging was $400 in 2019, according to the National Association of Realtors.
Is Home Staging Worth the Investment?
Undeniably, home staging is worth the investment. Staged homes sell faster and for higher prices than those that are not staged. Home staging allows you to showcase the best aspects of your home, making it irresistible to potential buyers.
Cost-effective Home Staging
Home staging need not be an expensive undertaking. There are plenty of ways to stage your home on a budget, such as rearranging furniture, decluttering, and adding a fresh coat of neutral paint.
Staging Your House for Pictures
Photos are a crucial part of your home's online listings. Ensuring your home is well staged for pictures can make a significant difference in attracting potential buyers. Good lighting, a tidy space, and strategic furniture placement are key.
Expert Home Staging Tips
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Declutter: Clutter can distract potential buyers from the beauty of your home. Clear away unnecessary items and ensure your space is tidy and organized.
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Deep clean: A sparkling clean house is more attractive. Make sure every nook and cranny is spotless.
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Patch and repair: Minor defects can give the impression of neglect. Repair any damage and freshen up your home with minor renovations if needed.
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Depersonalize the space: Potential buyers want to visualize the home as theirs. Remove personal photographs and items to make it easier for them to imagine living there.
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Choose neutral colors: Neutral colors appeal to a wider audience and make spaces look larger and brighter. Consider repainting rooms in shades of white, beige, or gray.
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Use natural lighting: Natural light can make a space look larger and more inviting. Keep curtains open during viewings to let as much natural light in as possible.
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Rearrange your furniture: Pull furniture away from the walls and arrange it to facilitate easy movement and highlight each room's functionality.
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Make sure rooms are well-defined: Each room should have a clear purpose, which helps buyers imagine how they would use the space.
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Boost curb appeal: The exterior of your home is the first impression buyers get. Keep the front yard neat, add potted plants, and ensure the front door is inviting.
Home Staging FAQs
What happens to the furniture after staging?
After your home is sold, rented furniture used for staging is typically returned to the rental company. If the furniture is yours, you can take it to your new home.
Is it better to sell a house empty or staged?
A staged home is typically more appealing to buyers as it helps them visualize the property as their future residence.
Should you set the table when staging a home?
Yes, setting the table can make the dining room look more inviting and gives a cozy, lived-in feel.
What is the difference between home staging and interior design?
While both involve making a space look its best, home staging is specifically aimed at making the property attractive to potential buyers, while interior design is about personalizing a space to the homeowner's taste.
About Pink Realty
Pink Realty, a dynamic real estate firm, is the #1 team in Colorado and the #4 team in the nation. They are a team of over one hundred well-rounded agents and employees who can specialize in all your real estate needs. Pink Realty was the first team in Pikes Peak to top $1 Billion in sales—if you're looking to buy or sell a home or have questions about the Colorado real estate market, contact Pink Realty today!
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock