Another Striking Financial Reason to Stage Before Listing - Omaha, NE

I understand this to be true.  I just had heard last week that my zip code does not fall into that category, but many others in the Atlanta area do.  Also, at this same meeting an appraiser in the group commented on staged homes giving the appearance of being well maintained and although staging doesn't actually increase the value of the home, It does allow the appraiser to tag on the extra $1,000 or $2,000 as ot relates to superior condition.

I would suggest you copy this post and re-write the beginning of it asking Realtors, lenders, and appraisers to educate us stagers on the subject.  Post it in the Realtor Group, an Appraiser group, a lender group and of course Stage It Forward and then sit back and see if we can learn more. 

Good post! 

You are correct about declining markets. It is different all across the nation. 

There are entire states in declining markets.

There are regions  in declining markets,

There are areas within counties & cities in declining markets.

There are areas that have increasing markets and some areas have slow sales but not declining markets.

Staging increases selling appeal without a doubt. As, an appraiser I would not consider staging or relate it to superior condition on an appraisal. The physical condition of the property determines this.  Such as age, amenities, recent renovations, etc.

If staging produces a better physical condition then it could possibly increase the adjustments made to the comps.

Yes, physical condition . . . fresh paint, new flooring, updated lighting, counter tops, etc.  Many things like this happen to a home as a result of the home stagers recommendations.

Great clarification Russell! 

I feel as a real estate appraiser staging is needed in every home that is for sale. I feel it is even more important in today's market. I have seen some fantastic work and I know it made the difference why the property sold.

I would suggest as a professional stager to consult with or team up with an appraiser to make sure what could make the difference for added adjustments on an appraisal.  You do not want to over spend so that it does not increase market value and/or sell appeal. 

Example: I had a client who wanted to spend $10K on a stair case.  I told him on the final appraisal I could not give him the same dollar adjustments , if any at all.  You have to have stairs to get to the second floor.

Remember some improvements are like pools they do not add very much value to the appraisal even though they cost a lot of money to install. Sometimes they can make the property harder to sell.

Bottom line with Professionals Stagers, Realtors & Appraisers working together prior to or during the listing the seller will come out ahead every time.  Everyone wins including the purchaser and the consultants.

Very useful information to be aware of it.  I will check into our area.  Thanks!

Kim Dillon, Creative Eye Home Staging

Good stuff, sometimes people just need the #s to speak to them ;)

Cheers,

Cindy