5 Things You Should Know About Staging Your Palm Desert Home
Staging is a huge part of the selling process. Staged homes tend to receive 2-10% more for a home on average. Is that worth it to you? Don't you want that extra few thousand dollars in your pocket? Home stagers can cost a lot of money but they usually are well worth it. If you are selling a vacant home, a home stager could run several hundred to several thousand dollars but most homeowners sell their property while they are still living in it. So here are some things to know about staging and what most professional stagers wish homeowners knew. 
#1. Don't get emotional.
Stagers and listing agents are trying to sell the home, not cater to your personal feelings. You can't take it personal when a stager or agent offers advice about a piece of furniture or layout. We know you love your house but not everyone might. We have to make sure it not only is staged properly but can be photographed well for listing photos. Listen to feedback, take it into consideration and trust the professionals that do this for a living.
#2. Pack up and Move out (if you can)
If you can pack up at least half of your "stuff" it will make the home seem much more open, bright and uncluttered. If you can move out it may actually be better but not always reasonable. However, if you have pets, you might consider relocating them during the home selling process.
#3. Take professional pictures.
Most real estate agents will pay for professional photos of the home. Over 90% of home buyers start their search online and they see photos first. Make that first impression a good one with excellent images. Make sure pets, kids or YOU are not in the photos and take photos different times of the day to really get the best light.
#4. Plan ahead on staging.
Don't think about staging the day before you list. Staging and preparing a home for sale should be done at least a month in advance, if you can, so you can hire a stager or plan out the layout and starting cleaning and packing well in advance. The home should be in tip top shape the second you are ready to list and stay that way until it closes.
#5. Make sure it's worth it.
Don't put $5000 into home staging if you're not going to get a least that much back out if it. Make sure it's worth the investment. A few hundred dollars might be able to bring another $10,000 at the sale and then it's worth it.
For more information about staging your Palm Desert home or property please contact me anytime. This is what I do and what I love. I can help you plan and stage your home for the maximum amount of return.
Images by FLickr
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