Why Staging Matters

We get asked a lot of questions about staging, and why it is important in the sale of a home. Simply put, as representatives of sellers, we want to recommend what we know will generate the highest and best offers for our sellers.

As leaders in our local market, we have witnessed the power of staging time and time again, often seeing our staged properties garner multiple above-asking price offers. We’re not alone, 67% of Realtors surveyed say that staging a home helps sellers fetch more money during resale. We outline what staging is, why it is important, and how it can impact the bottom line when it comes to selling.

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What is Staging?

The concept of staging emerged in the 1970s by Barb Schwarz, a real estate professional with a background in theater. She developed and coined the term, to help her show her listings, using mostly techniques in decluttering and arranging furniture. Today, staging still uses these techniques, but also has evolved into a process of transforming rooms to generate more interest using new furniture, artwork, and accessories.

Why is it Important?

Real estate has changed significantly over the past decade with the advancement of technology. Now, 43% of buyers start their search online, and over 90% of buyers use an online source for information.

Professional photography and staging are critical to a polished digital presentation to draw potential buyers. The importance of the digital presentation of listings is even higher post-pandemic, with the number of buyers and sellers who would buy or sell sight unseen increasing. Staging helps buyers visualize how a home lives, and answers these common questions, “Will my furniture fit?” or “What can I use this space for?” 

In today’s society of influence, home improvement shows like Fixer Upper, have reshaped the expectations of buyers of how home’s should look. Today’s buyers are looking for move-in ready, and perfectly staged homes because that is what is shown on TV and social media. Millennials (age 21-28) made up 31% of homebuyers in 2020.

This age range is adapted to technology, using apps and online resources to find and view homes. To reach a larger buyer pool, your home should stand out from other inventory.

The Numbers.

Staged homes typically sell faster and for more money. According to a 2020 Real Estate Staging Association RESA survey, 85% of staged homes sold above asking price and 75% of sellers saw an ROI of 5-15% over asking price with an average investment of just 1%.

Although it is an up-front cost covered by the sellers, many see the benefit of this investment when it comes to the closing table. Pricing is dependent on the size of the home, how many rooms are needed, and the current market conditions.

Before + After.

Below: Luxury condominium staging using a mixture of the owner's furniture and stager's furniture and artwork.

Below: Den in North End home transformation with fresh neutral paint and stager's furniture and artwork.

Thinking About Selling Your Home soon?

Our services include a complimentary home preparation plan by one of our professional design consultants. This plan gives our sellers a focused view of items to do to maximize profit in their home sale. They can even show you how to use your own furniture to stage for success.

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