To stage or not to stage: The secrets to a quick sale.

None of us want to spend time or money on things that do not work. Staging is a strategy that some people swear by and some people think is a waste of money. In our experience selling different houses with different situations, we have concluded that… it depends!

When to stage

If your home is vacant and not renovated.

Staging will help to make a house that is so-so pop a little bit. Staging in this scenario can bring people to focus on how the house can look if they were to live there. Otherwise, buyers may just focus on some of the outdated features.

If the layout is not clear.

If your home has an older or unique layout, it can be hard for buyers to imagine what to do with each space. Staging can define each space for them and will make it so buyers do not leave the showing feeling confused about the house.

When your furniture… just isn’t the best.

If your furniture is ruined by dogs or is pieced together and does not match, this will not do your home justice. The perception buyers get from your furniture will influence their perception of your home. 

When not to stage

The home is fully renovated.

There is not doubt that staging a renovated home will make it look even nicer. However in our experience, renovated and new build homes sell for just as much and just as easily regardless of if they are staged.

Your home is a fixer upper.

If the house needs a lot of repairs, staging it isn’t going to make things any better. Buyers of fixer uppers tend to have more imagination and will look right through the staging, for better or worse.

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A little more insight.

Most of the time, staging lightly is the way to go. Meaning you do not have to stage every room all out with couches, beds, tables, and paintings. Most times, adding in some colorful towels, a welcome mat, a wreath, some plants, and just some fruit to the kitchen, will go a long way.

Professional staging can cost around $1,000-3,000 depending on the size of your home and level of staging you want. Popping some color into the kitchen and bathrooms on your own might run you a couple hundred dollars at Target. Then you get to keep it after you sell!

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When you are ready to buy or sell a home, choose an agent who is professional and experienced. Choose a J&J Realtor and experience something better. Call us today or contact us to get in touch.