Words Brittany Bazin, Brittany Bazin Interiors
Home staging is a technique utilized by homeowners and real estate agents, to enhance the visual appeal of properties for prospective buyers.
The goal of home staging is to create a neutral setting that allows potential buyers to imagine their own belongings in the space, ultimately helping them form an emotional connection with the home. Home staging involves arranging furniture and décor to highlight a property’s
best features.
KEY ELEMENTS
Effective home staging encompasses several key elements:
1. Decluttering & Depersonalizing
One of the initial steps in home staging is decluttering. This involves removing excess items, unnecessary furniture and anything that doesn’t contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the home. Depersonalizing the space is equally important. Family photos and other personalized items should be removed to help buyers visualize themselves in the space.
2. Cleaning & Repairing
A clean and well-maintained home is important and appealing to buyers. This involves deep cleaning all areas of the home, including carpets, windows and appliances. Additionally, addressing minor repairs such as patching up holes in the walls, and ensuring all lights are functional, can make a big difference.
3. Neutralizing the Space
Neutral colours and décor are essential in home staging as they appeal to a more widespread audience. Using a neutral colour palette for walls and furniture can help create a fresh and modern look. The idea is to make the space feel inviting without overwhelming potential buyers with too many patterns or colours.
4. Strategic Furniture Placement
Arranging furniture in a way that showcases the flow and functionality of each room is fundamental. The goal is to create open, inviting spaces that highlight the best features of the home. For instance, placing furniture around a focal point, such as a fireplace or large window with a view, can enhance the room’s appeal.
THE PROCESS
The home staging process typically involves several steps:
1. Consultation
The process begins with a consultation where the stager evaluates the property and discusses the homeowner’s goals. The stager will provide recommendations on what needs to be done to prepare the home for sale.
2. Planning
Based on the consultation, the stager creates a detailed plan outlining the changes and improvements needed. This plan includes everything from decluttering and cleaning to furniture arrangement and décor selection.
3. Execution
Once the plan is approved, the stager begins implementing the changes. This usually involves removing/rearranging existing pieces of furniture and adding decorative elements. For vacant staging it includes bringing in rental furniture.
4. Final Touches
Small details can have a sizable impact in home staging. Adding elements like stylish pillows, greenery or a tasteful piece of artwork can enrich the overall feel of the home. These finishing touches help create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that resonates with buyers.
THE BENEFITS
Home staging offers numerous benefits, including:
- Faster Sales: Staged homes tend to sell more quickly than non-staged homes, reducing the property’s time spent on the market.
- Improved Online Listings: High quality photos of a staged home can make online listings more eye-catching, drawing in more potential buyers.
- Highlighting Features: Staging helps to highlight a home’s best features, making the property more appealing overall.
- Higher Sale Price: Homes that are staged tend to spend less time on the market, making the selling process quicker and often more convenient.
Home staging is a powerful and beneficial tool in the real estate market that can considerably improve the attractiveness and value of a property. The investment in staging often pays off through a faster sale and potentially higher offers, making it a smart choice for sellers looking to make a strong impact in the competitive real estate market.
Photos courtesy Brittany Bazin & Stephanie Wilson Photography
