This article was written by a professional home stager, my dear friend Karen Otto from Plano, Texas. She is an incredible home stager and writer, She is a wonderful person, I felt like an old friend the first time I talked with her. I hope you have someone like that in your life.
Karen has given me permission to use a large portion of her article, The Virtual Home Buyer, so that I can help my New Hampshire neighbors who are selling their home now, or in the near future. Here it is:
"As a Professional Home Stager I often tell clients that buyers today are in a different league. With access to the internet, virtual tours, digital photos and new types of on-line real estate shows that are becoming available, a savvy home buyer does not need to leave the comfort of their home to decide whether or not to see a property listed on the internet.
Often, time strapped buyers will make a decision at their computer screen as to whether or not the house is worth getting in the car (or plane in some situations) to see. In the case of relocations, it becomes necessary to view properties cross country or globally and access to the internet becomes crucial.
I make it a practice to regularly search real estate on line to preview the virtual tours and photos. I find myself "virtually" staging the houses that look like they need it. I always wonder what the reasons are behind why certain homes have no photos or tours available. I'm especially curious about the homes that don't have any photos or tours. Is this a marketing strategy to keep a buyer guessing? Is it due to lack of information about digital photography or virtual tours? Is it seen as too expensive or time consuming? Is the home in such poor condition that no photos should be taken? Why?
This is one of the most important tools after listing that sellers have in getting their house seen and sold.
Another valuable tool in the process is home staging. Staging will present the home in the best condition to appeal to the most number of buyers, which translates to a quicker sale and in many cases, higher profit. There is never a second chance to make a first impression. Staging is crucial for making that fabulous first impression, whether on-line through amazing digital photos and virtual tours, or in person as the buyer walks up to the door.
Professional Stagers make the job of Sellers, Realtors, Digital Photographers and Virtual Tour Operators much easier. Stagers compliment those services and promote the sale of a home in ways beyond the norm. Staging is becoming a "must have" service, not only for sellers, but also for real estate professionals who understand what home staging can do for their bottom line."
Like to read New Hampshire home staging blogs by Sue Argue from Staged First Impressions?
Can I stage my own home?
I don't think my house needs staging, it's just right for me!
Who pays for home staging, the seller or the agent?
Can you teach me to stage my own home?
How come Realtors don't pay for home staging?
Why are the listing pictures so important?
I'm moving; what should I do with my household hazardous waste?
When it comes to fixing up my house for sale, what is most important?
My house is vacant and I can't afford to stage it.
How do I get started staging my home in NH?
What is a home staging consultation?
Do you know any green LEED builders?
Tell me how to interview a home stager.
Tell me who to contact to join the Active Rain blogging community.
Where can I find info on home staging statistics?
I can't find a home stager in my area, can you help me?
My house needs curb appeal, can you help me?
Another example of curb appeal
Staging it Forward with Realtors in NH
What is Staged Photography?
Using Staged Photography to sell your home in NH
A Life Raft for Sellers in This Shallow Pool of Buyers
The Secret Option for Builders to Stage a Model Home
Vacant Kitchens are Just Too Doggone Empty!
Selling Now? Make Peace With the Current Market
The Home Doesn't Look Like It Did In the Pictures!
Staged Real Estate Photography in NH
How to Sell Your Staged Home Furnished & Recoup Your Staging Fee
Here is a photo of my son holding his catch after a day fishing in northern NH. I thought this blog needed some color, and well, I'm a proud Mom :)
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