Did you know that homes that are staged before being put on the market sell faster and for more money than homes that aren't?
In fact, according to a report by the National Association of Realtors, nearly half of seller agents (48%) found that staging a home decreased its time on the market. So if you're looking to sell your home quickly and for top rand, home staging might just be the secret weapon you need. But don't worry, you don't have to break the bank to make your home look like a dream. In this article, Seeff covers some low-budget ways to stage your home and make it irresistible to potential buyers.
What is home staging?
Home staging is the process of preparing a home for sale in the real estate market. It involves making the home look as attractive and appealing as possible to potential buyers by temporarily furnishing and decorating — and sometimes, renovating — various rooms. This can take the form of arranging furniture and decor, decluttering, and enhancing the overall appearance and ambience of the home. It can even be done virtually to help with your home’s online marketing.
The goal of home staging is to help buyers visualise themselves living in the home. By connecting emotionally with your home, it can increase the likelihood of them signing on the dotted line and at a higher price point.
Benefits of home staging for sellers
Serious sellers put together a strategy and work with professionals to get their homes off the market. Staging your home is an important part of the process. Here are some reasons why it matters:
Staging creates an emotional connection: It helps them better visualise how they will live in your home, creating a stronger connection. Your home may not be set up to showcase the best use of your kitchen or patio space, but staging can remedy this to appeal to buyers who enjoy these spaces. It’s also helpful if you have empty rooms; with the right furnishings and accessories, they can see how your home can look and feel.
Staging makes your home look attractive: With staging, the goal is to highlight the best features of your home, making it visually appealing to buyers and securing your sale. Clutter, dirt, and worn furnishings are a common part of your daily living. Staging removes these to showcase your space at its best. Clever staging can even be used to make rooms feel bigger and brighter.
Staging helps you get a faster sale: When a home is inviting and appealing, it draws attention and this can translate to quicker sales. If you’ve been battling to get offers and get your home off the market, a makeover could be the answer.
Staging maximises your selling price: Smart fixes, tasteful decor, and high-end furniture can make your home appear more luxurious and this can translate to a higher sale. If a buyer gets a positive impression of your home, they will see it as more valuable.
Staging sets you apart from your competition: In a crowded market, staging can make your home more memorable and appealing to buyers. If a buyer is searching online or visiting several showhouses, a staged home offers up striking images and a better experience. Even if your home is similar to another, staging can be the difference needed to secure the sale.
Staging helps buyers overlook potential flaws: While major defects should be made clear to buyers, staging can work wonders to overcome minor flaws or quirks and even present them as positives.
Budget-friendly staging ideas for a big impact
While hiring a professional stager is often the best option, there’s no reason you can’t stage your home successfully by yourself. There are some simple and cost-effective ways you can make a difference.
Declutter and clean: Dust, dirt, and clutter can make it a challenge for buyers to visualise themselves in your space and get a feel for your space’s potential. You should remove excess furniture, personal items, and knick-knacks. Also, have your space cleaned and sanitised to remove grime and unpleasant smells.
Depersonalise: As you declutter, you’ll want to remove any personal items that could turn off buyers or prevent them from immersing themselves in your home. These can include family photos, refrigerator art, toys, and other keepsakes.
Paint your walls: A fresh coat of neutral paint in white, beige, or grey can make your space feel brighter, airier, and neater. Neutral colours also have universal appeal so it can double up your depersonalising efforts if you have a bright colour adorning your walls.
Rearrange furniture: You can buy furniture from a thrift shop or borrow pieces from family or friends. If this isn’t an option, rearrange furniture to create an open and inviting space. Focus on enhancing the flow or creating conversation areas.
Update fixtures: Buyer eyes can often be drawn to the little details. By updating fixtures around your home, you can show your home is well taken care of.
Change your lighting: Dull lighting can make it hard for buyers to enjoy your space and also create a negative impression. Opting for brighter lights can cast away shadows and create a glorious glow. This is particularly helpful during seasons when showhouses don’t get a lot of daylight.
Get expert staging advice
When you sell with Seeff, you can tap into the staging experience of a property practitioner with years of experience. They will give you staging advice to showcase your home at its best and ensure you have the best possible chance of selling quickly and at the best price. List your home here and we’ll get back to you.
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