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Health & Fitness

Understanding Home Staging as a Marketing Tool

First and foremost the way you live in your home is not the way you sell it. Learn how to make your home shine and attract buyers!

As we maneuver through this somewhat complex real estate market real estate professionals find ourselves stretching our creativity (in a good way) to get our listings sold.  We hit the Internet hard and heavy with information and virtual tours.  We create community awareness through mailings, email blasts and flyers.  But there exists a misconception among consumers as to what staging a "home for sale" really strives to accomplish.

First and foremost the way you live in your home is not the way you sell it.  Our home environment is a reflection of our character, lifestyle, functionality and immediate needs.  For example, if you have children who are involved in soccer or some other sport several times a week then it stands to reason that their equipment will placed where it is readily available.  Or if you have family pets then their bowls, bedding and in some cases litter boxes will always be available for their use on a daily basis.  We don't live in a glass bubble!

When we walk through the local malls many of the store windows are staged with trendy manikins sporting the latest fashions trends.  There is always something going on in the scene that causes you pause, stop and walk through their doors.  Staging a home is no different.

One of the first things that potential buyers see when they are looking at homes (in most cases) are the front lawn and entry.  If you own a condo then their eyes are drawn to grounds and the main entry.  Three seconds is all it takes to capture their attention.  During that short three second span every one of their five senses kicks into gear.  Their brain is inundated with information as walk through your home.

Having your home staged will enhance its best features and make any of its shortcomings less noticeable.  Staging will get rid of any unwanted clutter and create an inviting space that leaves buyers excited about viewing more of the home's space.  Staging doesn't have to cost a lot of money-and in some cases no money at all!  A trained professional will re-arrange the furniture and create a natural flow from room to room.  With some color and a few plants the right staging can transform a non-descript front door entry into a warm, welcoming and inviting stage that sets the scene for more opportunities to impress the buyer.

You never get a second chance to make a good first impression!

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