Why home staging can improve your bottom line
Home staging, or property styling, is a smart strategy to prepare a house for sale, dressing it up to look its best. As agents, you want to get the best price for the property you’ve been instructed to sell – and savvy staging can help you do just that.
In a recent?poll, we found that the presentation of a property during a valuation is very important. From the get-go, how the house is presented is a large consideration. Furthermore, a?survey?conducted by the Home Staging Association UK & Ireland found that 94% of staged properties sell faster than unstaged one. It was found that 61% of these properties sell up to twice as quickly, while almost 1 in 10 had seen staging lead to a sale 3 times faster. Overall, the expected return for staging is +3%.
As such, we turned to some interior designers for their expert advice on how to stage a home for sale.
Make room for personalisation and adjust as necessary. “Displaying accessories such as photo frames and wall art can really personalise a space, making it feel unique. These accessories can also be easily changed, thus are no worries if they don't meet the potential buyer's taste. They will be able to feel the personalisation and see room for their own personal design touch.”
While it’s best to clear away any family photos and certificates so the viewer can immerse themselves in the space, look for ways to add décor or utilise what the current owner already has.
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“It is really important to clear the clutter from your home so that potential buyers can appreciate the space and the lightness of the home. This includes inside all cupboards, wardrobes and storage which should only be half full so that the buyer feels that they have plenty of space to store all their possessions.”
Next up is to set a focal point. “Create focal points with complementary colours or textures such as adding cushions and throws to a sofa in the living room or on the beds in each bedroom. Plants add colour and freshness to a room. A simple piece of art or a framed poster creates a focal point on an empty wall.”
Need to keep it simple? “Buyers want to see their aspirational home. Show them the life they could live in that home.”
Secondly, add plants. “Lots of large-leafed jungle-like plants fill gaps and provide interest. They also make the home feel alive and cared for.”
As an agent, it may be down to you to explain the benefits of staging to the seller. Staging the main reception room, kitchen and primary bedroom are the most advised. While DIY staging is an option, the seller may need guidance and time to do this successfully. In a competitive market or when the seller needs more than a helping hand, you may advise hiring an?interior stylist?to dress the house.