Should I Stage My Property?

Are you thinking about selling your home? Are you wondering if you should have your home staged?

There is no question that staging adds value. Creating good-looking interiors to boost the attractiveness of your home is smart marketing. Quality photography and a well-presented property can make all the difference when it comes to your home’s saleability and to getting you top dollar.

2 Types of Home Staging

There are two different types of home staging. The more traditional type of staging typically entails the rearranging and/or removal of some of your furniture to create an illusion of more space. A professional stager will pull together rooms and expertly jazz up your home with tasteful touches that will make your home more appealing to potential buyers.

There is also virtual staging which is the process of enhancing digital photos of a property by using graphics software. With virtual staging, anything can be added — furniture, wall hangings, rugs, etc. Virtual staging is fast and efficient, though you have to be careful not to create false impressions. If you choose to stage your home virtually, you’ll want to disclose it up front so that buyers won’t be caught unaware when they physically view the property.

Pros and Cons of Staging

Both types of staging have pros and cons. Physical staging is, well, physical. It takes time and effort and may be costly. But, what buyers see online won’t differ from what they see when they visit your home. Virtual staging is time-efficient, affordable, and there are lots of design options to choose from. Of course, without full disclosure and proper management of buyer expectations, it can be misleading and even off-putting at times.

How Do You Choose?

Deciding if your home needs staging is where a professional comes in. Most Realtors know what sells properties. We can assess your home and help you determine the best course of action. Often, a little light staging does the trick. Sometimes, it’s a heavy lift to get a property properly prepped for market. It really all depends on the market, your property, your time and budget, and your expectations.

Example 1: No Staging

So, the good news is that you have options. We can even do a combination of virtual and physical staging. Oh, there is one more option. Don’t stage. Many Sellers like their homes just the way they are and choose not to stage. And frankly, some Sellers get it so right that there is nothing to do but hire a professional photographer to capture their tasteful, showcase home. For example, 161 Nawiliwili (MLS #202124349) did not need staging. The owner artfully dressed tabletops and counters, eliminated an extra sofa from the living area and removed an extra leaf from the dining room table, thus creating an even more inviting ambiance.

Example 2: Virtual Staging

On the other hand, this sweet studio was virtually staged (MLS #202017952). You can see the before and after pictures, and clearly, the virtual staging adds appeal.

Example 3: Styling and Virtual Staging

Here’s another example. This charming older home (MLS #202125008), nestled in Palolo Valley didn’t require much. The stager added a few simple props to the living room just to create a focal point and to add a bit of color. We did some virtual staging, too. Check out the bedroom…

The style and age of your home, along with the price point and your own personal preferences all play a role in your staging decisions. In the end, your house will sell if it presents well, is priced right, and is promoted properly. Staging is just one of many tools to help you maximize your profit, and it’s a tool that is evolving and becoming even more relevant in today’s market.