This past October, I was fortunate enough to present at the National Conference for Accredited Staging Professionals - - my topic was "Staging for Seniors and Their Families in Transition".
At the risk of sounding all "Tony Robbins-y", I just want to say that I LOVE what I do - I love being a Professional Home Stager - I love working with Realtors - I love working with Home Sellers - but my absolute passion is working with Seniors and their families.
As much as I enjoy working with Seniors, I am always surprised by how some of my fellow stagers (and how many Realtors) do not like working with this population. The reason given for their reluctance is almost always based on the amount of time required - "it takes too long", "there are too many stories", they can't make up their mind", etc. I understand the reasoning (after all I have the same number of hours in a day as everyone else), but the satisfaction that comes from knowing that I have made a very difficult process easier for my client more than makes up for any extra time I might have spent.
Selling and moving from your home is stressful under the best of circumstances - but often, when working with Seniors, there is the added stress caused by the underlying reason for the move. They are likely moving because they "have to" rather than because they "want to". Perhaps they can no longer handle such a big house or they can no longer take care of themselves without assistance. The emotions of leaving the house that they believed was going to be Home for the rest of their lives, can be overwhelming.
1. Be Patient - I cannot stress this enough!
- You will find that there is a story behind every room, every possession, and every picture. Likely, you will hear the story more than once. (we all start repeating ourselves as we get older!) (we all start repeating ourselves as we get older!)
- When scheduling your day, allow for extra time when working with Seniors - if a task normally takes an hour, make sure to schedule two (or more) hours.
- Energy levels can wane. Be prepared to move at a slower pace than you might be used to (or even be prepared to reschedule!)
2. Be Sensitive
- You may see that ratty old broken recliner as an eyesore that needs to be thrown away. However, it is likely "his chair" and there are many memories associated with it. Be prepared to fully explain your reasons for all of your recommended changes.
- Packing away family photos is normally one of the first steps in preparing a house for sale. However, for some Seniors, being able to see those photos is their way of staying connected. Work with the homeowner on a compromise - perhaps putting the photos temporarily into an album that could kept in a drawer and still be easily accessed.
- The family dynamic can be especially tense during these times. It is always wise to not only remember who your client is, but also remember your primary purpose: to sell the house as quickly as possible and for as much money as possible. Again, be prepared to fully explain the reasons for all of your recommendations.
Richard Kline, ASP MASTER, IAHSP
The Staging Guy
512.537.4489
IAHSP Austin Chapter President
richard@TheStagingGuy.com
www.TheStagingGuy.com
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Twitter: @TheStagingGuy
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