Many people think it is simple to stage a vacant property.
We've all seen the television
shows and all stagers do is bring in furniture to show the
size and
function of a room right? Perhaps after reading this you may
re-evaluate what qualified home
stagers do, for there is a definite "method to our madness".
Some time ago I viewed a small, vacant 1 bedroom condo and after
submitting a proposal to merchandise the property for sale, the
homeowners decided they could save money by doing it themselves. They
were very nice people and when they called to let me know their plan I
sincerely wished them a speedy, profitable sale.
They purchased some furniture, set it in place, had it
photographed and waited for the offers to start rolling in. It didn't
take them long (only a couple of additional mortgage payments) to
realize that their listing wasn't capturing the attention of potential
buyers. Have a look... can you see why?
You will notice it is a small, fairly narrow living room
(not uncommon for a 1 bedroom, downtown condo these days). To the right
of the sofa is a door leading out to a patio.
From this home stager's point of view, what they did isn't all bad.
They used an area rug to anchor the seating and they chose light,
somewhat "airy" furniture. What they didn't realize is....
Heavily patterned rugs make small spaces seem
even smaller and pull potential buyer's eyes down.
Positioning furniture right up against the walls
does not make rooms feel more spacious.
Perhaps they also didn't know that...
Flow is as important as function.
Color is crucial for setting a mood and creating
interest.
Greenery provides an element of "life".
Angled flooring and furniture can visually widen
a room.
Artwork keeps buyers eyes up and moving
throughout a room.
Accessories enhance and help soften
furniture.
Good
photos are crucial for generating buyer traffic.
Something tells me that they now have a better understanding
of the points I mentioned above. As of today this is what the room
looks like and they have renewed hope that a sale is indeed forthcoming!
Jackson West is the founder of Reveal Estate
Home Staging and a Certified
Staging ProfessionalInstructor.
His interior redesign work can be seen in the book "Home Staging For
Dummies" as well as magazines including multiple editions of the "Staging Standard".
He is also featured on a television
series for the W Network.
While his niche has long been downtown properties in a higher price
range, the principles of design, functionality and flow he implements
are
equally effective in every home.
30 Comments on It don't mean a thing if it aint got that bling!
JUL
24
2009
What a great job you did! I love that the story has a happy ending, even happier when it sells! This shows how important it is to retain a good relationship with the client even after they choose not to hire you initially. They realized the error of their ways and remembered what a professional you were...
Jackson, it looks wonderful. The right furniture and accessories plus a well balance of color is always more appealing than just furniture alone. The work of a true talented professional!
Well, Jackson, this new television adventure on your video link looks so exciting!
I cannot wait to see more. . When will we be seeing you regularly in the W Network? You clearly have a knack for not only staging, but explaining it with precision, and with presence!
If I can't get this show in my area, I think I am going to have to relocate...
Your rooms inspire me! I never realized how crucial the greenery element is in each room when staging until I attended your CSP class. Clearly you have the midas touch...
Fabulous work, as always!!! I'm so glad that the homeowners called you back. We've had a couple here who lately have said that they can purchase the furniture rather than rent it.... now we can't wait to see what they end up with. I've seen it happen before, and like your example they don't understand the concept that this is more than just putting some furniture in the place....
WOW Jackson this is great. So when do we get to see you on TV? I love your camera presence and what Candice had to say about you. Also love your on-camera attire. TOP NOTCH all around!
Jackson!GORGEOUS staging as always! I am loving that art! Great message to homeowners...there really is so much to consider. Your example is perfect and I will be re-blogging this! Loved your video as well! You are so much fun to watch!!
Hi Jackson! I am getting to my post now and now lost my nerve. You always have the most gorgeous rooms. I never have anything like your homes to stage! You are my "Property Stylist Idol"! Love the youtube! Where do I see more of the W Network??
Amazing Jackson. The room looked so sterile and unwelcoming before. As my Grandmother used to say "Bless their hearts for trying" but this is proof positive that staging should be left to the professionals. This property will undoubtedly sell SO much faster now, great job!
You took it from looking like a furniture storage unit to a warm, inviting space. Such simple changes, yet they were all critical in making this space look like a home. Very nice!
Jackson, just saw Maureen's re-blog of this post. One of the best examples I have seen of what a Professional Home Stager can accomplish vs. sellers doing it themselves. Fabulous work!
Jackson: Isn't it amazing how a Professional Stager can work magic. People always assume that since they have seen it done on tv, and they make it look easy that they can do it themselves. I am a HUGE believer in BLING! and these photos demonstrate just how important accessories and properly placed furniture can make the difference. GREAT JOB!!
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Just had to post this because believe it or not each time I use the 3 little cactus in white pots you come to mind Jackson - all the way in Texas!
;)
;)
What a great job you did! I love that the story has a happy ending, even happier when it sells! This shows how important it is to retain a good relationship with the client even after they choose not to hire you initially. They realized the error of their ways and remembered what a professional you were...