How often do you find yourself saying, "I'm a visual person," or "I can't picture it - I've got to see it?" Well, you're not alone. The majority of people consider themselves visually oriented. Which is why when I tell people about what I do as a stager and redesigner, 9 times out of 10 they'll ask if I prepare drawings ahead of time. I am not an architect or interior designer, so I don't generate blueprints or deliver design portfolios. My process is much more organic. I could plan on paper all day long, but that couch won't find its perfect place without me moving it around, stepping back, taking a look, and nudging it until it's just right. You see, I'm visual too!
All of that being the case, I have found that there is a place for some fancy schmancy renderings. And I've fallen a little bit in love with the way to do them - Plan 3D. It's not CAD and it's not 100% perfect, but it's pretty snazzy and quick, once you get the hang of it.
How have I used it? Here's an interesting case - I recently had a consultation with a potential Buyer, set up by the Seller's Agent. I was asked to come in to help the potential Buyer visualize how to make the best use of the main living areas. The potential Buyer loved the house, but just couldn't "see" how the furniture would fit on the ground floor. So the Buyer's Agent agreed to provide me with her client's listing photos, which I perused to get a sense of the potential Buyer's style and current furnishings. Armed with both parties' listing photos and the floor plan from the Seller's Agent, I set out to virtually play with layouts and décor on my laptop. The result? See for yourself...
BEFORE & AFTER
I admit it - I was pleased with how the consultation went. The Seller's Agent was happy. The Buyer's Agent was impressed and her potential Buyer took another walk-thru of the property, with the virtual photos of the decorated space fresh in the mind. I don't know if that bid will come in, but it was a pleasure to help someone visualize the possibilities. And I give kudos to both Agents for being open to such creative marketing!
AN UPDATE: The Seller's Agent just contacted me to let me know they are now Under Contract - with the Buyer with whom I met. This is now a virtual staging success story!
For more tips on selling and staging properties, contact a Certified Redesign Specialist with Eye to Eye Interiors for an affordable consultation. Serving Chicago and the surrounding suburbs... and anywhere in the world, with Smart StagingSM Virtual Solutions! (773) 350-7020. www.eyetoeyeinteriors.com
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