Home Staging is an art and very few people can appreciate this form of art.  Interestingly enough it is still a relatively new marketing tool that in my opinion is not fully embraced by sellers and many of us real estate agents. I'm always fascinated by the ability of a home stager to transform a simple part of a home into a sophisticated and inviting one. Dena Badger is a friend and a fine professional in the business of Home Staging, today I catch up with Dena as I interview her for my Business of the Month article.  

Q. What made you go into Home Staging and why?

A. I love the "Before & After" concept - and I love Real Estate - so when I heard about Home Staging it was a perfect fit!  It is so much fun to make a few simple changes in a client's home and see their face light up and hear them say "I never would have thought of doing this, I wish it had been this way all along!"

Q. What are the biggest challenges you face in this line of work?

A. Before the economy became challenging my biggest challenge was getting a house completely finished in a short time frame - now I have to say my biggest challenge is helping people to understand that staging is worth the money it takes to do it!   Even in this economy - especially in this economy - homes need to be at their very best - there are so many homes available at good prices - buyers need a reason to buy yours!  

Q. For someone who is considering this business, what do you advice they should do first?

A. For someone wanting to start a staging business now I advise that you purchase some of your own furnishings and decor - some transitional - neutral sofas & chairs that you can use in vacant homes - this way you can save your clients money by not paying the high prices of the rental companies (the rental companies are very helpful and provide good service, but it is expensive.)  This way you will be able to use the furnishings that will look best in the home.  It is very hard to find exactly what you need in the stores. I would also recommend that a future stager shadow a seasoned stager - volunteer your time and work with them - this will give the best training you can get! (good advise Dena!). Times are tough right now so expect a slow start.  

Q. Home owners and Realtors have this idea that home staging is "expensive" - what do you say about that?

A.I realize that home staging seems expensive to most people - it is good to gain a little understanding:  Properly staged homes sell for as much as 6% more than their un-staged comps.  A stager's "vision" is invaluable to a homeowner.  A stager will look at a home with "buyer's eyes" and will make suggestions that will take a home from frumpy to fabulous!  A stager will cause those cold empty rooms to become stylish and inviting - helping buyers to feel as though they could move right in!  Compared to the benefits and monetary gain of staging the expense is minimal - if you are not convinced try it just once and experience the difference it makes.

Q. How can people get a hold of you for your services and consultations?

A. If you would like to give staging a try or you are looking for good staging services give us a call:  First Impressions Home Staging and Redesign: 530-604-7628 or email: frstimpressions@frontiernet.net.  If you aren't sure and you want more information don't hesitate to call!

You're an outstanding professional Dena and we sure have benefited from your staging experience.  Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to do this interview with us, your thoughts and advise are appreciated.