A well-staged space can be a deal breaker or maker for potential homebuyers. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, staging can maintain or increase the selling price of a property and reduce its amount of time on the market by up to 50 percent. CORT conducted its own study of 7,800 staged homes and found that homes sold in an average of 5.5 months once they were staged, versus 10.4 months for homes that were not staged.
CORT’s design experts want to share some simple tips on how to stage your home to limit the time it sits on the market.
Staging Tips
- People typically think a space is smaller than it actually is when it is unfinished. If you are showing a vacant space, consider renting furniture, lighting and accessories to help the homebuyers envision themselves utilizing the space.
- Add a fresh coat of paint to the walls to present a clean, fresh experience for the potential homebuyer. Dirty or outdated carpets should be professionally cleaned or replaced, depending on budget. Finally, painting doors and replacing door knobs is an easy, inexpensive way to make a great first impression before the prospect even enters the space. The key to successful staging is a clean, well-lit and neutral environment.
- Curb appeal can often make or break a deal when it comes to selling a property. Keep well-manicured hedges and a clean, clutter-free yard to provide a good first impression to potential buyers.
- Bathrooms should be kept spotless and smelling fresh all times. A lightly scented diffuser and some updated art on the walls will give the impression of utmost attention to detail. On the other hand, dripping faucets, mildewed caulking and running toilets give a negative impression and should be tended to immediately.
- Plants will add texture and life to a space, but must be either well-tended live plants or silk plants. Remove dying plants and replace dated silk ones to keep the space looking fresh and new. Be sure to water and groom regularly to avoid the space looking unkempt.
Remember that just a few added extras can be the difference between an immediate sell and a long stint on the market!
