Staging your home prior to listing it is an important marketing tool. When done correctly, it presents your home in a flattering light.
Staging helps to keep your home competitive at a favorable price. According to the National Association of Realtors:
· 83% of agents said it made it easier for the buyer to visualize the property as a future home when it was staged.
· Buyers were 38% more willing to walk through a staged home that they saw online.
· 31% of buyers increased their offer by 1-5%.
If you’re overwhelmed about how to stage your home, don’t know what home staging is, or aren’t sure whether or not to hire a professional, continue reading for a step-by-step breakdown of home staging essentials.
1. What is Home Staging and Why Should I Do It?
Home staging is the process of rearranging furniture and adding décor to make your home look more eye-appealing and attractive for pictures and walkthroughs. In essence, you’re blending interior design skills with marketing strategies to appeal to the largest pool of buyers possible.
2. Where Do I Start?
Look at your budget and see if you can afford a stager. If not, here are some tips for staging your home yourself:
a. Focus on the Rooms That Count the Most
In a pinch, just focus on tidying up the main rooms of the house that people will spend the most time in. This includes the entryway, living room, kitchen, and master bedroom.
b. Declutter
Nobody wants to walk into a messy house, so take the time to declutter your home. Use storage containers to put things away and out of sight. You want to make your space look streamlined and simple instead of chaotic and cluttered.
c. Clean All Surfaces
After you’ve decluttered, it’s time to clean. Be sure to wipe down all surfaces, dust, sweep, and vacuum. Make sure your home smells good too! Purchasing some plug-in air fresheners will help your home feel even more clean and fresh.
d. Don’t Forget the Yard
Curb appeal is just as important as a sparkling kitchen. Take the time to weed, mow, and edge your lawn. Use a hose to spray down the driveway, patio, and any areas containing spider webs. Water the plants and flowers, and remove any that have died. A Texas Tech University study found that curb appeal can increase your sales value by up to 17%.
3. When to Hire a Professional
If you’re lacking in interior design skills or simply don’t have the time to stage your own home, consider hiring a professional. Stagers offer a variety of furniture and décor that you can rent out, or they can arrange your existing furniture in a pleasing way. They’ll ensure that your home is polished and appealing to potential buyers.
Agape Home Buyers Can Help You Sell Your Home Fast
If you need to skip staging your home and sell it quickly, Agape Home Buyers is here for you! At Agape Home Buyers, we buy houses in Volusia County, Florida, and the surrounding area. Regardless of the price or condition, we would love to work with you. Contact us to get your fair, all-cash offer today!