Leslie Cain: Home staging makes a difference

According to a 2018 survey by Home Staging Resources, 85 percent of the staged homes sold for a higher price than unstaged homes in the same market. Additionally, experts say that staging a home decreases the amount of time a house spends on the market. If you are considering placing your home on the market this year, here is information that might help you rise above the competition:

Staging before photography

It is estimated that 90 percent of all home buyers search online for homes, so staging your home prior to having photographs taken for your website listing is essential. Often times the virtual tour is the first impression potential buyers will experience regarding your house.

Start with the living room

Staging the living room was determined to be the most important room from a buyer’s standpoint, followed by the master bedroom, and then the kitchen. However, all rooms can benefit from the staging process.

Neutralize the environment

More than 75 percent of buyers’ agents said that showcasing a home in more of a depersonalized environment helps potential buyers picture themselves living in that home. A home filled with someone else’s personal belongings can make potential buyers feel as though they are invading private space. However, a neutralized atmosphere encourages buyers to envision a home as “their” home.

Staging includes the outside

Do not forget about the importance of curb appeal. Clear your walkways, clean your windows, mow the lawn, trim the greenery, wash the porch and/or patio furniture, freshen up your welcome mat, and add potted plants and flowers.

Don’t Rely on Staging Alone

While staging can make your home look amazing, do not forget to have your house professionally-cleaned and decluttered (if necessary). It also helps to fix minor repairs.

Partner with a Staging Professional

Should you decide you want to move forward with staging your home, ask your agent for recommendations. Prior to hiring a staging professional, check his or her references and view “before and after” photographs taken of previously-staged homes.

Pricing for Staging Varies

The cost of staging varies depending on the size of the home, how many rooms, and the amount of clutter. Of course, the larger the home the more it costs to stage. Typically, the cost of home staging is less than the seller’s first price reduction. Timelines vary depending on the amount of work and complexity. Also, if you are on a tight budget, there are several staging techniques you can do yourself. Keep in mind, staging your home is an investment.

For homeowner information or to find a licensed real estate professional, contact the Sierra Nevada Realtors at 775-885-7200 or sierranevadarealtors.org. Sierra Nevada Realtors is the voice of real estate in Carson City and the surrounding areas. They are committed to building better communities throughout the region, and participating in the political process to protect the industry as well as private property rights.

Leslie Cain is president of Sierra Nevada Realtors and a Realtor with RE/MAX Realty Affiliates in Carson City. Cain has been active in the real estate industry for nearly 14 years. She holds several certifications including Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer’s Representative and Senior’s Real Estate Specialist. Cain can be reached at leslie@lesliecain.com or 775-781-1386.