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Ouch, that stings!....Some HGTV viewers express their opinions on staging

Being a member of Active Rain has given me a pretty good idea of how the majority of real estate agents regard home staging. Most seem to be for it! For quite some time, I have been searching for a forum that would allow us to see what potential buyers and sellers thought about staging. And finally I found it! Click here: Oh, dear....(staging) - Topic Powered by eve community It is from the HGTV message boards under the category Buying and Selling Homes.

The phrase "be careful what you wish for" comes to mind in this circumstance because I wasn't quite prepared for just how candid those responses would be. Even though these opinions were expressed by only a handful of viewers, it still gives valuable insight as to how staging is perceived by both buyers and sellers. Reading these posts was a real eye opener for me. And painful, too! However, just like the homeowners on the staging shows who have to listen to the frank comments of people touring their homes, we do have to take to heart what is being said. We are strong! We can handle it!

I was taken aback by the many things they perceived as being true that we would view as misconceptions; such as:

Staging is a fad.
A house that that has been cleaned, decluttered and recently painted IS staged.
Professional staging gets tacked on to the asking price.
Staging should only be for vacant or model homes.
New furniture must be brought in to properly stage a house.
Staging was invented in order to supersede interior design.
Staging is fake decor.
Suggestions for preparing a house to sell should only come from a realtor as they know the market.

There were a few posts in defense of staging but they were mostly from home stagers or sellers whose homes were staged by their Realtors. Some of the other concerns mentioned were:

Having a sign in the yard stating that the home has been professionally staged. The assumptions were that the house was staged free of charge by a new stager or that the homeowner got a reduced rate by allowing the advertising. They feel that a house should not be advertised as staged by a professional staging company anymore than it should be advertised that it was freshly cleaned by a commercial cleaning company. One mentioned that, while house hunting with her spouse, they purposely never stopped to view homes that had a rider on the sign stating that the home was staged. Their perception was that staging was being touted as a feature of the home rather than a provided service. The consensus was that it is okay to advertise that the house was staged in a vacant home but not so in an occupied one.
Staging should be invisible...not contrived. One person stated that if she was viewing an obviously staged home, she would be more interested in critiquing the stager's abilities than focusing her attention on the house. Another felt that staging was manipulative and somewhat desperate. Potential buyers were turned off by homes that were staged with fake lemonade set ups on the porches, open novels on tables next to reading chairs, and having all the tables in the house, including the patio, set for company--complete with fake food.
Several posters stated that they hated staging. As both a stager and homeowner whose homes sold quickly and profitably as a result of staging, I just can't fathom how anyone could hate staging.

Now that we know what buyers and sellers are thinking, we need to address these concerns and make sure that our marketing materials and blogs clear up the misconceptions. We also need to make sure that our staging efforts are not being perceived as "contrived".

I welcome any thoughts or suggestions on ways to address these issues. Go to Oh, dear....(staging) - Topic Powered by eve community and let me know if I missed any important points.

Posted by Judy Kincaid, Tampa Home Stager on 08/27/2007 06:49 PM

Comments (59)

hgtv, home staging, staging

Post is included in group: Stage It Forward...

59 Comments on Ouch, that stings!....Some HGTV viewers express their opinions on staging

AUG

2007

Judy thanks for the link to the site. Interesting reading and I'm not surprised. Hating staging is a bit overdone but there will be folks all along the continuum of appreciation.

I know it works and that's why I do it.

Judy - WOW, those are some pretty tough opinions to swallow over there at HGTV's message board. It seems to me, that a few of those people just plain don't get it. This comment in particular "We've never staged our houses nor have we taken all our personal items out when we got ready to sell. Just made sure it was clean and the outside looked nice." Isn't that part of staging?! Perhaps she doesn't realize that not every home seller has "vision". Sometimes, not every time, but sometimes home sellers need that "fresh eye perspective" (Hey, Marci!) to sell their home.

Another comment about staging not doing well - "I have a feeling that all this staging is bound to stop soon. being the market the way it is," - ARE YOU KIDDING ME? With over 50,000 houses here in Arizona alone - staging is booming! My team is doing exceptionally well - not because our services are contrite, but because sellers understand that their home has competition - and they want to win the blue ribbon (offer).

Thanks for sharing this Judy. I've given you a "5" and book-marked 'ya. Can't wait to hear what others have to say!

Calie, I totally agree that many folks don't understand that staging is multifaceted and isn't just about moving in furniture and accessories.

I did a consult last week and as I was leaving (2 hours after I arrived) the man of the house said...but you haven't told us how to "stage" the house. I smiled at him and told him that my written report would reveal all of the staging secrets.

The need for more education rears its head again!

Well, I think there is some good in even the negative statements here. It hopefully did not go unnoticed that the person who stated that staging is a fad also stated that a house is "staged is if it clean, decluttered, freshly painted, and anything else that the owner deems necessary to do, in order to make it competetive in the market."

Chances are the owner will not know what is necessary to make their house competitive in their market. Some agents may be able to tell them some updating is necessary, but their knowledge stops there and they can offer no real solutions. There is always a backlash and in this case it is good because people are at least AWARE of staging. But, it looks like we must keep educating....

Hi Judy

I know staging works. It is sad that some people feel this way. More and more people feel that staging is the way to help sell their home, those are the ones I and most other stagers try to help.

Lynette

Judy,

Staging does work, but I don't think it should be advertised on the listing. It is part of the process and definately helps, just the way that good pictures do.

This is a great topic. I think this is where the word "Staging" adds to misconceptions. I always wondered if the word is setting up false assumptions and from what I can tell, it is. Staging (setting up) a property is just a small portion of what we do.

Hi everyone: I loved the comment that the agent will tell them what needs to be done and that is the only person they intend to take advice from.....Two points: Many agents recommend staging AND many agents will admit they do not know enough about staging to give sound advice beyond decluttering and cleaning.

I also agree that this falls under the category of education-maybe they don't realize that the shows on HGTV are entertainment and have very little to do with the actual staging process.

Thanks for the insight!

I have to agree that a sign rider is probably not the best place to advertise that the home is staged. Instead, it should be advertised in the agents notes of the MLS listing. This way, agents know which homes will likely show better and the buyers can experience the full impact.

Fyi-our homes in this area are never advertised as "staged".......

As a Realtor and Accredited Staging Professional, I totally believe that staging will help a home sell faster. It isn't a fad, but has become more popular recently due to the sluggish market and popularity of shows on HGTV. In my opinion, sellers need us now more than ever (both Realtors and ASPs). There has always been staging, but it was not called "staging". We used to call it "be the shiny penny" for example. As a Realtor, I've always recommended cleaning, de-cluttering, etc. but staging goes a step further and ensures wonderful interior photos. Why wouldn't anyone want their house to look it's best? Keep doing what you are doing - you provide a valuable service!

We've discussed this here before, but I strongly believe, and feel totally validated by, the comment on homes that advertise that they've been staged being unappealing. Staging should be a stealth weapon. It is like great makeup - it enhances without being obvious. Further, the more I think about it, the more I believe we should hold the B&A shots until the house has traded completely. We should show only the Afters while the listing is active.

Staging, in its current iteration, is very obvious. Furniture being on an angle, the books, the table setups... I never used to set the tables - thinking they looked cluttered - but I'm finding now that people expect it. The angle thing is kinda fun, and makes the most of most spaces. I've even started doing it at home. I put the family on cloth napkins, nice napkin rings and placemats for.... 4 days! We're back to paper napkins now!!!!!!

Judy,

Thanks for the post. Clearly some education needs to be provided. I am a firm believer in staging. Sellers need to understand that the wow factor goes along way to get an offer. Much the same way staged new construction does. They need to be focused and think about the number of homes sold off of the staged model. Buyers may baulk at what they perceive to be contrived. However, when the rubber meets the road, buyers all want a turn key solution. A well staged home can give that impression.

Hi Judy: Is a mortgage broker who used to be a Realtor allowed to comment? First, please know that mortgage brokers and Realtors get much worse press than this!

I think of staging sort of like dressing for success. You know, you'd rather be in your sweats, but you dress up for your clients. Staging dresses up the house for potential clients. BUT.....you knew there was a but, right?

I do see a lot of houses since I go on tours with Realtors. In fact, Realtors often ask me what I think of the staging (because I am not another Realtor, nor am I a client) I do wish all the houses did not look so much alike after staging (you know, one red wall, one gold wall, sage green furniture, those tall candle holders, towels tied up like napkins with napkin rings. etc...etc....etc.... And I miss being able to judge the kind of karma that a house has. I know it sounds weird, but sometimes it feels like staging has given the house a lobotomy...no personality left.

Thanks Judy. This HGTV blog makes me wonder...there are no names signed to the entries. What's up with this? I agree with Janet, avoid negative press, and every stager has different ways of staging. You've got to find the right one. Mine staging is basic, the simpler the better. All walls the same color, with the minimalist choice of furniture, but just enough to accent the homes features. My name does not have to be mentioned as the stager of the home, in fact, I don't think the home should state that it has been staged. If someone asks then ok. Staging statistics prove it works.

Diane

As a Realtor with a good design eye I can give clients advice on how to best present the features of their home and use what they have, with my additions where necessary to update the decor enough to show the space. What I like to see in any home is a clean, uncluttered presentation of the space. So I agree with the above comments that obviously staged homes are too "cleansed" if you will of any personality and when seen over and over tend to be less effective.

I think there are many phases to staging from the cleaning and purging to full decorating to truly show a lifestyle and each has its place. I can't say as I've ever once seen a sign rider that advertised the home was staged and wouldn't even consider putting it on one of mine. Staging should be subtle, a pull at your emotions, an evoking of a lifestyle, the thought that this too could be mine. If you put it in their face I think it loses some of that seduction. Letting the agents know through remarks is a great way to let them highlight to their buyers as they see fit, since they know them well.

It's interesting to hear that commentary. I can't say as any buyer has ever stated it the way they did in those comments but maybe I just haven't been privey to what they really think of the very staged homes!

Homes that are overly staged do not impress. Also, if stagging is used to hide defects with the home -- it can backfire! I think the professionals usually get it right, but there are instances where the stagging does not do what it was intended to do.

Josette,

You stole my thunder.. I also agree, there are several levels of staging, and as professionals we must all at least learn the basics. Such as, some paint colors just don't work! Some furniture items need to be removed, hidden or burned....(whatever the homeowner will allow)

In this market....(Florida) if you can not be candid with your client and advise them on what is selling, and why some homes are not selling, then you are way behind the curve and I will gladly take your referrals!
But seriously... staging is not something that will go away. Every home needs different levels from the curb to the inside, we are paid as marketing professionals and this includes staging.

Thank God, there are professional stagers out there to help guys like me, and I am also greatful I am smart enough to admit it.

I admit, even if a home "APPEARS" staged, it offers a level of comfort to could-be / should-be homebuyers that many "WISH THEY COULD SELL" homes will never have, and that is one of the reasons it is taking longer to sell. We can no longer just put it on the MLS and wait.. We must MARKET! And staging is one of our tools!

Brady Pevehouse
www.sellitincentralflorida.com

Well people hate Realtors too. In fact, people hate innovation. Let them grumble...they are probably the same people who sell FSBO. :)

When I see "staged" in the MLS comments I know that the home will show well, and that's what I care about, so I believe the advertising should be only to Realtors. Having a "staged" rider seems to be advertising to the wrong audience. Effective staging should be received on an intuitive and emotional level and should please the senses.

I have to agree about the advertising - especially sign riders. That is a complete turn-off to me. What value is there to the seller when the staging is advertised? Do they think that buyers seek out only staged homes to look at? Keep the mystery and excitement of discovery as buyers view a property.

Judy, what a great post. You have quite the discussion going on here. I think there is probably more positive press about staging than negative - but of course people usually focus on the negative. I can't for the life of me understand why a clean, decluttered, appealing home would be a turn off? I would rather view this type of home than the messy, uncared for property. I wouldn't put a sign on the lawn after I staged a home because I agree with the others where they stated - you don't advertise rug or window cleaning - why advertise staging. In a vacant home - the staging becomes obvious after you check a few closets or cupboards. Thanks for sharing your site. Betty

Many agents are just now starting to see the benefits of staging. And a good part of that is due to what we've learned right here on ActiveRain! Now we need to work together to educate the public.

Great discussion. Lots to think about and maybe re-evaluate on my next job.

GREAT POST!

I want to know a) geographical breakdown of these comments: because most buyers know about staging in SF and do not resist it

b) how is staging contrived? If you walk into stores like Pottery Barns, they staged their tablescape with the whole 9 yard! They have fake lobsters and crabs for summer seasons and fake turkey for fall season. I don't see how we are doing differ from the styling of major furnishing companies. It's about invoking emotions in people to buy.

Just my 2 cents. But thanks again for writing this fabulous post, it gives me a lot to think about ;)

Cheers,

Cindy

AUG

2007

Ginger -- You're welcome! I totally agree with you--staging does work. I never could understand when someone would say they "didn't believe in staging" but to actually say that they "hate" staging just boggles my mind. You are right....continuing with our efforts to educate is of the utmost importance.

Calie -- You're right -- It is clear that some of them on that board really don't get it. In reference to this comment, "We've never staged our houses nor have we taken all our personal items out when we got ready to sell. Just made sure it was clean and the outside looked nice", the first things that came to my mind were that they probably haven't sold a house in many years and if they had, it is likely that they didn't get their original asking price.

As for this comment, "I have a feeling that all this staging is bound to stop soon. being the market the way it is," --- Not going to happen...houses are expensive...staging helps support the asking price...it is here to stay!

I am glad to hear that you and your team are doing well in Arizona. Thanks for the "5" and the bookmark.

Hi Judy. I think its being "in the dark" on staging. Its the same for realtors. I dont think people realize what it is you do and how it helps. I'm sure a lot of the homes those people look at that are staged are the ones they really like...they just don't realize they are staged. The need to be educated. :)

Kim -- You are right on the money with your observations. It almost appears that the person who made both those comments is intimidated by the staging process. The knowledge of which was probably garnered mostly by watching the staging shows-- which is indeed intimidating at times. And yes, our efforts to educate must continue.

Lynette -- I know staging works, too! There will always be naysayers but it is heartwarming to see more and more people turning to staging and reaping the benefits.

Chris -- I couldn't agree with more....staging does help with the selling process. I also agree that the fact the house has been staged shouldn't be advertised on a sign in the front yard.

We have had buyers who would complain and not even want to go into a home that has a sign in front that says it is staged. This has happened more than once with different people. Interesting how this affects people. So we suggest staging - but no sign.

I agree!

Well in part. If a home LOOKS staged, then it isn't. The whole purpose is to give the buyer an idea of what it will look like and how it's "supposed" to be. Setting a stage. Not to wow them with someone's decorating prowess.

Advertising a home is staged, is like advertising that the Realtor did a good CMA on the home. This is a service not a feature. I've never understood that one, as if buyer's care about staging as features.

I wholeheartedly recommend staging.

I think this featured post dove tails with my featured post from today.

Conclusions for me...

Staging should be stealth.
Do not advertise a house as staged
Do not do contrived "staging tricks"

BAD staging does all this. There are more and more bad stagers out their, and they are starting to impact the perception of ALL in the Industry. The media is noticing... and the general public is noticing too.

Hmmmmmm

YOu know that the service you offer adds value and contributes to the sell of a home. There will always be neysayers out there.

Hello JUDY!! Thanks for the heads up...

As you know, here in Florida, sellers need the edge wherever they can get it. For those people who feel that staging is not necessary, I would suggest they own two comparable houses, stage one and not the other....and see which one sells faster. We all know the answer to that!!

This is a difficult market to sell a home in and I continue to receive calls from desperate homeowners who are strained because their home has not sold in a timely fashion. Staging is a huge HELP and relief for many people and I defy anyone to find a better solution. I love HGTV for raising the consciousness of the general public, however, the general public remains naive as to the reality of how a 'home show' is produced, directed and funded.

Many people are frustrated that their home does not look like a model. A great solution=STAGING...which simply uplifts the 'style' of the homeowners so that a home is more universally appealing. To those people who commented on the HGTV site....I say, 'Meet a creative Home Stager and change your world!!' (And this does not mean find a wanna-be, part-time, no-style stager who has little to no talent.)

Regards-Kathleen

I agree that staging shouldn't look staged. Our job is to make the home the focal point not the decor. still laughing at the fake food.

Thank you so much for this post. It is always good to know what the public is thinking. As usual, it seems that "less IS more!"

Kim Dillon, Creative Eye Home Staging

My thoughts about staging are very much like my thoughts about going in a model home...beautiful (most of the time) but you have to look beyond that. Would your home have sold without the staging?? To me, what I have seen with my buyers, staged or not staged, will the home work for them, the space, the layout. I have gone in many homes that have been staged....and my clients who have seen them, liked them, but opted for other homes that met thier criteria better....So, I don't know if you could argue that "staging" sells homes......I would love to see some data on that ....

Fantastic post...thanks for sharing it with us! It's a great measure of where staging is in it's evolution. More educating to be done...what an exciting opportunity.

I personally just staged a house I listed and the homeowners loved their home even more! Many people don't know how to place funiture, art, accessories, etc. So often when I come in and just make a few simple changes with the homeowners own items, it completely changes the feeling and flow of the home.

Buyers are small minded if they put down staging...where else do they plan to get great ideas for their home? As for putting a "staged" sign out front or fake food on the table, I would say it is taboo!

This is a *great* post. Tempering my thoughts and comments I'm also thinking this is a very small sampling of the overall population as is evidenced by the growth of our industry - so with that, here goes. I think all feedback is important feedback and we're supposed to learn from it, positive or negative. It seems to me there are valid points to be learned from in this feedback, ie: staging is supposed to highlight the house, not bring attention to the actual staging and certainly not the stager.

As for those consumers (that's what they are) that have no idea as to what staging is really all about, well...we're in a blossoming industry and it's up to us to educate them. If their only exposure is through HGTV what else are they to think?

I personally loved this comment: "staging is fake decor" I recall reading a post recently about cardboard furniture...how much more "fake" can you get?

Jackie (hoping she doesn't get shot at with clay ducks) Peraza

Tina -- Great point about the term "staging" possibly adding to misconceptions. I have been wondering about that myself lately. I think the term is suited for explaining what we do in vacant homes but I think it gives the wrong connotation of the services we provide for occupied homes.

Cheri -- Those are the exact thoughts I had when I first read those posts. When I first started my staging business and was explaining to people what I do, many of the responses were, "That's what Realtors do!"

Education is definitely the key. We need to emphasize that the staging that they see on tv and the staging done by professionals in the field are two different things.

Rebecca -- You're welcome! I agree that sign riders shouldn't be used to advertise that a home has been staged. Neither should there be signs throughout the house that tout the stager's expertise.

Kelly -- Thank you for your kind words and support. I like the phrase "be the shiny penny"....that says it all.

William -- You are quite welcome! Yes, more education is definitely called for. You made some very valid points and it is obvious that you know firsthand the true value of staging.

Juliet -- I have always felt that staging should be stealth....no advertising and no obvious clues such as bed trays, champagne in the master bathroom, tied up towels, etc. I think more and more people are getting turned off by these "tricks of the trade" if you will.

I can't agree with you more about not posting before and after photos while the house is still on the market. In fact, I usually wait about 6 months until after the home has sold before I use them in my marketing materials...but that's just me. I was feeling uncomfortable about using some before shots of a house that I did a consultation for in a recent blog, so I deleted them a few days ago...and feel so much better!

I stage for what the house needs. If having the furniture on an angle will make the room appear more spacious or draw attention to the focal points, then so be it. I seldom set the table...but there are rare occasions...when there are no drapes and nothing in the room but a table, that it is necessary to add some dimension, color and different textures to the space. Again, things that a skilled stager can determine.

I always set my table when company is coming....the only time we don't use paper napkins!

Judy - Thanks for putting this out there. Great post and comments! I try to do the less is more approach. I dislike the way model homes look and rarely visit them for this reason. I have had my Realtor-clients tell me that people came by at the Open House because they liked the pictures online. That is one of the best compliments a Home Stager can get!

Interesting viewpoints. It always is a good idea to listen to the customer to see what they are thinking. I think that the invisibility of staging is important....It is like merchandising in a store (things set up just right & neat & appealingly)....we don't see a store ad that says "well merchandised"...it just is.

The principles behind staging have been around for decades. The misconception of the practice partly comes from the word "staging" -- borrowed from its theatrical use (i.e., set dressing). Artificial lighting. Forced perspectives to create the illusion of depth. Props. etc. You can't please everyone. There's going to be some percentage of the population who's going to be put off by what they perceive as "fake".

Janet -- Welcome to the discussion! I value all opinions and comments. Thanks for adding yours to the mix.

You struck a nerve with your statement about all staged homes being so void of personality that they are starting to look alike. Love the lobotomy analogy because it does ring true. I think that is why I have always preferred working with occupied homes and I don't strive to make them look perfect. My goal is to make sure the best features of the house are center stage and most of the time that can be accomplished with creative use of the homeowners' furnishings. Thanks for stopping by and giving such an honest reply.

Diane -- You are welcome! The reason there are no names given on the HGTV forum is because it is a message board and that is the way it is set up. I am in total agreement with you...staging should be done to play up the best features of the home...not the stager!!!

Josette -- Those were some very insightful comments. I loved your description of what staging should be -- Staging should be subtle, a pull at your emotions, an evoking of a lifestyle, the thought that this too could be mine. If you put it in their face I think it loses some of that seduction. That's good stuff...do you mind if I use that phrase in some of my marketing materials?

I knew that not everyone was on board with staging and have heard many disparaging remarks about it over the years but was completely floored reading those no-holds barred opinions on that message board.

Joan -- Homes that are overly or improperly staged can be as distracting as ones that are not staged at all.

My answers to those bullet points from commenter's...in italics

Staging is a fad. - Staging has been around for over 30 years and gaining momentum
A house that that has been cleaned, decluttered and recently painted IS staged. - and is a home that will sell quickly and for top dollar
Professional staging gets tacked on to the asking price. a properly prepared home that shows well and is maintained yields a higher price and often close to or over asking price - what seller would argue with that?
Staging should only be for vacant or model homes - all homes in all price ranges whether occupied or vacant, new models or well over 50 years old deserve the same attention to detail when selling
New furniture must be brought in to properly stage a house. - not true! Many stagers use only what the owner has to stage the property and it looks great! Suggestions are always made as to what to keep and what to pack. For vacant properties rental furniture (that has been used many times before) some inexpensive pieces, even thrift or second hand store items are used and look fabulous. Stagers make magic happen
Staging was invented in order to supersede interior design. - staging is a cost effective alternative to interior design when selling or even dwelling. Stagers don't upsell furniture and accessories to clients that are selling their homes, they try to use what the owner already has. Interior Design is decorating for dwelling and for personal taste - staging is NOT decorating!
Staging is fake decor. - this one makes me laugh. What's fake about wood furniture, artwork and decor, linens and things that everyone has in their homes? We're not floating false images in a room, we're using REAL items and making them look fantastic!
Suggestions for preparing a house to sell should only come from a Realtor as they know the market. - If all Realtors were truly prepared to tell their clients what needs to be done in their homes and DID NOT TAKE THE LISTING until their clients prepared the home properly for sale- then I'd agree with this statement. But it's just like any other service, if their client's needed painting or their electricity upgraded, would the Realtor be the one painting and doing the electrical work? Staging COMPLIMENTS the Realtor's job and gives a return on their client's investment! What will it take to get some to open their eyes as to the fortunes they are missing when they don't call a professional stager BEFORE listing?? STOP leaving money on the table!

Thanks for letting me vent Judy! I feel much better now. Bring it on! I'll be happy to answer more comments!

Secret word - 'bramble" = What Karen Otto does on a soap box...

Judy, use away! But hopefully never on a sign rider!

I just got home from The Great Indoors where I'm looking for ideas and for furniture I can use to add to my stash. There is a group here who can furnish ten homes at once and have three designers on staff. Since I'm on my own I tend to do it all but I'm a wannabe decorator anyway. I know that what I'm putting in the house will help folks see themselves there.

AUG

2007

Judy,

Here's my take on the various comments about staging....

Prior to starting my staging business, I had a successful 35 year career in retail merchandising. During that time, I was affiliated with company's such as Federated Department Stores, JCPenney and The Gap. My primary job was to present merchandise. To make it visually appealing and presented in such a manner that it was more likely to sell to a customer in OUR store versus the competitor's store.

I was most successful in presenting merchandise in a way that the consumer, at a glance, could imagine the product on themselves, or living in an environment that the product represented. The way we presented merchandise in the Giftware Department when I first began in retailing is drastically different than the way itis presented in stores now. Why? Consumers/buyers are more savvy. They realize that competition is fierce and that stores will vie for their dollars in any way they can, be it pricing, service or presentation. Its for those reasons that in order for stores to be successful today, they must present their product in the most appealing way possible.

Three or four decades ago, giftware was presented on shelves, tables, etc., lined-up in a row like like toy soldiers. Similar items were grouped together, but little, if anything, was done to enhance the product or to educate the customer on how it could be used in their home. Today, virtually every giftware department is merchandised by lifestyle. Items are artistically grouped and displayed to enhance their desirability. Customers are better able to imagine how they ca be used in their home through this type of presentation.

There are many stores who do not present their merchandise in the manner described above, an yet they are still successful. WHY? Most likely, it is a price driven presentation. They sell the product cheaper than their competitors, and therefore attract customers in that way. These companies are will to accept a lower profit margin on the products they sell simply because they sell in greater quantities.

The decision on what type of presentation that a store will use is not a decision driven by FAD. It is one that is strategically planned. Companies that desire a higher price and higher profit for the items they sell do everything possible to enhance their product. Companies who desire quick turn on a larger number of products in spite of a lower profit margin do the minimum to enhance their items. They have the "pile 'em high and watch 'em fly" point of view.

So, how does this relate to staging? The relationship is simple, the product on the shelf is your customer's home, the mode of presentation is "staging." In order for a homeowner to receive maximum profit on their property, they need to be the type of store that employees whatever means possible to enhance and showcase their home. The most proven method is staging.

With all of that said, it is quite obvious that as stagers, we must continue to educate consumers about the benefits of staging and how it will put additional profit in their pockets. We're the disciples that must spread the word! Keep the faith kiddos, it will happen

Brady -- I like the way you think! You definitely understand the concept and benefits of having your listings professionally staged. Thank you for the wonderful comments and enthusiastic support of staging. So glad you stopped by.

Jennifer -- Surely, you are pulling my leg....who hates Realtors? Thanks for making me laugh and for reminding me that, in every industry, there will always naysayers.

Deborah -- You make a very valid point that only Realtor's should know that the home is staged. Your statement about effective staging was right on the money.

Kathy -- Advertising staging turns me off, too. I tend to agree with comments on the HGTV board in that buyers might be more interested in scrutinizing the staging than appreciating the house. I love this line--Keep the mystery and excitement of discovery as buyers view a property. My sentiments exactly!

Betty --Thank you for the compliment. I agree that staging does get far more positive than negative press...thank goodness. Like you, I couldn't understand why those commenters would prefer homes that looked very lived in. My guess is they think they can get a better deal on the price of those type homes. It does help to see the negative comments so we know which areas in the education process that we need to improve upon. Thank you for stopping by.

John -- How right you are! We need more Realtors like you who understand the value of staging and are willing to help in our education efforts. So glad you stopped by.

Coco -- Thanks! I have been doing a lot of thinking and re-evaluating myself.

AUG

2007

Judy: I was taken aback as well! Some people really don't "get" the purpose of staging much less the psychology involved. As others have stated, you will always find the negative lurking around. They obviously are not candidates for your services, but it's better to allow them to weed themselves out while you use your time more effectively and efficiently. Thank you for your research and great info. Wishing you continued success.

SEP

2007

Thanks to everyone for sharing your thoughts and opinions. I have loved every one of the comments.

Hate is such a strong word. I can't imagine actually using the word hate and staging in the same sentence. There will always be well wishers and devils advocates. Keep in mind the saying "Criticism is the best compliment someone can get". It's very true, if you aren't being critized you aren't doing anything worth noticing.

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