Home Staging FAQ: What You Need To Know

Home Staging FAQ: What You Need To Know

You’ve probably heard that staging your home can significantly impact its sale, but what does it involve, and is it worth the effort? Here are some quick FAQs to help you decide how much staging should factor into your moving prep.

What Is Home Staging?

Staging involves arranging and decorating your home to showcase its best features and maximize its appeal to potential buyers. It can vary from basic touch-ups to more comprehensive setups, depending on your goals and budget.

How Does It Help Me Sell My House?

Research indicates that effective staging can significantly impact your home's sale. A well-staged home tends to draw more buyer interest, which can lead to a quicker sale and potentially a higher price compared to an unstaged property. (see visual):

What Are My Staging Options?

Now that the benefits of staging are clear, let’s explore your options. The most common approach is to rely on your real estate agent's expertise. They know what appeals to buyers because they’re regularly in showings and hear feedback firsthand. Their advice can be invaluable in getting your home ready to sell. Basic staging guidance from an agent typically includes suggestions on how to:

• Declutter and depersonalize by removing photos and personal items
• Arrange your furniture to improve the room’s flow and make it feel bigger
• Add plants, move art, or re-arrange other accessories

Another option is full-service staging, ideal if your house needs a more comprehensive touch. This involves hiring a staging professional or company to assess your space, provide recommendations, and handle the staging process for you. While this method can deliver dramatic results, it’s also more costly. That’s because it often includes renting furniture and decor to enhance the appeal of your home.

How Do I Know Which One To Pick?

Not sure which option suits you best? You don’t have to decide on your own. Your real estate agent will assess what level of staging is likely to make the most impact based on your house and market conditions.

They’ll help you weigh whether professional staging is worth the investment or if you can achieve great results by following their guidance. Here are a few factors an agent will consider to help you make the right call:

• Market Conditions: If the market is slower, going all in on staging can make your home look move-in ready and attractive to buyers who may otherwise be hesitant. If your local market is very active and homes are selling fast, you may be able to get by with doing less.
• Your Home’s Condition: If your home is vacant or has a unique layout, using a professional stager who can bring in the right furniture and accessories may help buyers truly visualize its full potential.
• Your Budget: Talk to your agent to get an idea of staging costs in your area, as it can be the difference between your house selling and sitting. But if your budget is tight or your home only needs minor updates, your real estate agent can help you think outside of the box by suggesting simple DIY staging tips to help your home look its best.

Bottom Line

Staging can significantly boost your home's appeal, but every property is unique. Let’s connect to discuss tailored strategies that will make your home shine and help you sell for the best possible price.