Selling your Kissimmee, Davenport of South Orlando home? Wondering if staging is a good idea to get a fast sale? Let our property management experts show you what needs done so that you can get a great price on your real estate listing.
If you would like us to handle this process, we have 3 decades of experience in real estate and also property management.
What Is Home Staging?
Home staging prepares a property for sale by arranging furniture, decor, and accessories to highlight its features. The goal is to make the space appealing to potential buyers by creating an inviting and attractive environment.
This process often involves decluttering, cleaning, and rearranging items to maximize visual appeal. It can also include adding neutral decor to help buyers envision themselves living in the home. Staging creates a welcoming atmosphere that showcases the potential of each room, leading to a stronger first impression.
Professionals in this field focus on lighting, furniture placement, and style choices that emphasize a property’s strengths. Whether selling a house quickly or aiming for a higher offer, staging often makes a measurable difference in buyer interest.
Home Staging Techniques by Area
Kitchen Staging
- Declutter Countertops – Remove all small appliances, utensils, and personal items from the counters. Keep only one or two decorative pieces, like a bowl of fresh fruit or a vase of flowers, to maintain a clean, spacious look.
- Polish Surfaces – Wipe down countertops, sinks, and appliances until they shine. Stainless steel appliances should be fingerprint-free, and grout lines should look clean.
- Organize Cabinets and Drawers – Arrange shelves neatly and remove excess items to give the appearance of ample storage space. Buyers often check inside cabinets, so ensure they look tidy.
- Add Inviting Touches – Place a cookbook or a small cutting board with fresh herbs for a welcoming atmosphere. Avoid overly personal or themed decor.
Living Room Staging
- Arrange Furniture for Flow – Position sofas and chairs to encourage conversation and maximize the room’s openness. Keep walkways clear to avoid a cramped feeling.
- Use Neutral Colors – Stick with neutral tones for pillows, throws, and rugs. If you have bold furniture, cover it with slipcovers to tone it down.
- Highlight the Focal Point – Whether it’s a fireplace, a large window, or built-in shelving, draw attention to the feature by placing decor around it sparingly. Keep it uncluttered.
- Add Lighting Layers – Incorporate table lamps, floor lamps, and overhead lighting to ensure the room feels bright and inviting, even in the evening.
Bedroom Staging
- Focus on the Bed – Use high-quality, neutral bedding with plush pillows and a neatly folded throw at the foot of the bed. A well-made bed is the centerpiece of the room.
- Clear Personal Items – Remove personal photographs, clothes, and keepsakes to make the space feel impersonal yet cozy. Potential buyers should envision it as their own.
- Maximize Closet Appeal – Reduce items in the closet by half. Arrange clothes neatly on matching hangers and organize shoes or accessories to make the storage appear ample.
- Incorporate Soft Accents – Place a small rug, decorative pillows, or a bench at the foot of the bed to enhance the room’s comfort and sophistication.
Bathroom Staging
- Spotless Surfaces – Clean every fixture, mirror, and tile until it looks brand-new. Replace old caulk and ensure the grout is white and fresh.
- Keep It Minimal – Store all personal hygiene products out of sight. Leave only a soap dispenser, a neatly folded towel, and possibly a small plant or candle for a spa-like feel.
- Use White Linens – Display crisp white towels and a clean bath mat to evoke a sense of luxury and cleanliness.
- Fix Small Details – Replace worn-out hardware, update light fixtures, and ensure faucets don’t drip. These small updates make a significant impact.
Dining Room Staging
- Set the Table – Create a simple yet elegant table setting with neutral placemats, dishes, and a centerpiece. A vase of fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit works well.
- Keep It Open – Avoid overloading the dining table with decor. Ensure there’s ample room to walk around it comfortably.
- Enhance Lighting – Ensure the chandelier or overhead fixture is clean and functional. Add dimmers if possible to create an inviting ambiance.
Exterior Staging (Curb Appeal)
- Refresh Landscaping – Trim bushes, mow the lawn, and plant seasonal flowers for an attractive appearance. A tidy yard sets the tone for the rest of the property.
- Paint the Door – Repaint the front door with a neutral or inviting color. Add a clean doormat and a simple wreath to create a welcoming entryway.
- Add Outdoor Decor – Arrange patio furniture neatly or set up a small seating area to showcase outdoor living possibilities. Ensure it’s clean and free of wear.
- Clean Exterior Features – Wash windows, power-wash the driveway, and clear cobwebs from light fixtures and eaves for a polished look.
Benefits of Working with a Professional Home Stager
Should you choose DIY staging or work with a professional?
It depends. If you want to save money, then selling your home directly to buyers might make sense. Most of the time, you will pay back with stress and time, as you don’t have real estate expertise to be effective.
This is why working with property managers and realtors makes a lot of sense. You can tap into our 30+ years of experience and enjoy and fast and stress-free home sale.
Here are the main benefits of using a home staging expert:
- Expert Eye for Design – A professional understands how to highlight a property’s strengths. They know how to arrange furniture, choose decor, and optimize space to appeal to a broad range of buyers.
- Objective Perspective – Homeowners often overlook issues due to familiarity with their space. Stagers view the property from a buyer’s perspective, identifying areas for improvement that owners might miss.
- Access to Resources – Stagers have access to high-quality furniture, decor, and tools that can transform a space. They often work with rental companies and have curated items ready for immediate use.
- Time-Saving Solutions – Preparing a home can be overwhelming. Professionals streamline the process, handling everything from planning to execution, saving homeowners time and effort.
- Increased Buyer Interest – Well-staged homes create better online photos and standout listings. This often attracts more interest, leading to more showings and offers.
- Higher Offers – Staging frequently results in quicker sales at higher prices. Buyers are willing to pay more for a home that feels move-in ready and visually appealing.
- Stress Reduction – Handling staging alone can feel daunting. A professional manages the details, reducing stress for homeowners focused on selling.
- Customized Approach – Professionals tailor their work to suit the property and target audience. They adapt their strategies to highlight unique features and align with buyer preferences.
FAQs
How much does professional home staging typically cost?
The cost of professional home staging can vary depending on the size of your property, the stager’s experience, and the scope of work. On average, you can expect to spend 1% to 3% of your home’s listing price on staging.
Should I stage my home if it’s already furnished?
Yes, staging is essential even if your home is furnished. The goal is to create a neutral and appealing environment that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.
Can I stage my home myself without any prior experience?
Absolutely! While professional home stagers offer valuable expertise, you can still achieve impressive results with DIY staging.
Is virtual staging as effective as physical staging?
Virtual staging is a powerful tool for showcasing the potential of a space. While it may not provide the same tactile experience as physical staging, it can effectively attract a broader audience, especially for online listings.
Can home staging help me sell my property faster and at a higher price?
Yes, studies have shown that staged homes tend to sell faster and at higher prices compared to unstaged properties. A well-staged home creates a great first impression and lets buyers see the space’s full potential, increasing its perceived value.
