Home Staging – Does it Really Work?

by Samantha Stewart Canadian writer

Studies show that professionally staged homes do sell faster and for more money. This is why many realtors now include home staging in their offerings – since it makes their job easier! The point of home staging is to make the home appeal to the most buyers and to have it show well compared to other homes also on the market.

Some elements of staging are common sense, and it just takes a pair of fresh eyes to see them. This means the basic or obvious repairs that need to be done, getting rid of clutter and cleaning the home. If the tile grout is really dirty, or there are stains and odors in the carpets, it would be worth your while to get a professional carpet and tile cleaning company to make the floors look fresh and clean. If the repairs are more than you feel able to handle, it is worth getting a professional in to do interior renovations and repairs. Otherwise, the buyer may try to reduce the price they pay for your home – citing the work that needs to be done.

The part of staging that really requires a professional touch is the overall ‘look’. Rooms should be functional and welcoming; with correct furniture placement that puts the focus on the architectural features of the home. Colors and décor should be neutral, with occasional pops of color. Lighting should be bright, with no burnt out or outdated light fixtures. It is important to make the home look great for the photographs that will appear on the MLS, and to showcase your home in the best way possible.

Professional stager and interior decorator, Suzie Finlay of Divine Homes, explains: “People are usually amazed at the difference staging can make with a home. I often have clients that want me to stage their next homes when they move in, so they can enjoy the full benefits the whole time they are living there.”

For a home stager Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, Milton or surrounding areas, call Divine Home at (905) 466-2503, or ask your realtor to provide her services as part of your seller’s package.