Staging – The Best First Impression

First impressions make lasting impressions… which is why national studies have shown that homes that have been staged tend to sell more quickly and for higher prices. In today’s real estate market, when most buyers begin their house-hunting process online, staging is more important than ever before.

Home staging experts can prepare houses that are vacant or occupied, and they can work directly with homeowners or in collaboration with real estate agents. Some stagers have their own complete inventory of  furniture, artwork, accessories, and bedding that can be moved into a property to make it look lived-in and inviting. Other stagers work with what is in the house, working with the property owner to use those pieces that best highlight features of the house, condo, loft, flat, or townhome.

A professional stager’s work begins outside the property, with suggestions for curb appeal, and continues throughout the home, guiding the buyer’s eye to highlight architectural features and showcase how space in the home can best be used.

Staging a vacant house makes the rooms look larger (particularly in Internet photos), demonstrates furniture placement to potential buyers, and helps prevent low-ball offers.

Staging an occupied house helps neutralize the space so that buyers can picture themselves living in the property and presents the house in the most favorable light.

For more information on staging a home for sale or to schedule a consultation, click here for our directory of home staging professionals in the Suburban Chicagoland area.

Please note: Many of our members have worked with some of the top real estate companies in the area, including: Coldwell Banker, Baird & Warner, John Greene, ReMax, and Century 21.