Benefits of Staging Properties for Realtors
There are several benefits to investing time in creating a polished pre-listing presentation for real estate professionals. Prepping your property in the current market will set you apart from the competition and help you increase your revenue.
Staged Properties Connect with Buyers
Interior designers can use wall color, lighting, and furniture to create the illusion of more space and a welcoming atmosphere, even compared to empty rooms. This technique can work wonders even in vacant houses, as staging rooms with the right furniture and accessories can emotionally connect with buyers.
When a buyer falls in love with your home, it’s more likely to sell, and multiple interested buyers can drive up the selling price and result in a high ROI. On average, an investment of 1% of the sales price in staging can result in a 5-15% ROI over the asking price for approximately 75% of sellers.
Staged Properties Sell for More Money
Staging a property can increase its perceived value and lead to a higher sale price. By presenting the property in its best light, staging creates an emotional connection between the buyer and the property, making it more likely for them to offer a higher price. A staged property also stands out from the competition, leading to more interest from buyers and potentially multiple offers, which can drive up the sale price.
Investing in home staging can often cost less than the initial price reduction. The International Association of Home Staging Professionals reports that staging can increase the average sales price by up to 20%. Additionally, IAHSP notes that the cost of a price reduction is typically five to 20 times more expensive than the investment in staging.
Staged Properties Sell Faster
Staging a home can have a significant impact on the selling process, with staged homes selling faster than non-staged homes. Some properties even sell under bully offers — this is when a buyer makes a bid before your offer date.
This happens because staging creates an attractive and inviting environment for potential buyers, helping them to visualize themselves living in the space.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that the majority of buyers’ agents believe staging a home can affect a buyer’s perception of the property and, in turn, can lead to a quicker sale. Realtor.com also reported that homes that were staged sold 88% faster and for 20% more than homes that were not staged.
A Staged House Appeals Better to Buyers
Before investing in properties, the first step that potential buyers need to take is to research the market to find properties that they love.
A well-staged house can appeal better to potential buyers as it showcases the property’s strengths, maximizes space, and helps create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This, in turn, can increase buyer interest and help generate multiple offers, leading to a quicker sale.
According to NAR’s 2023 Profile of Home Staging, buyers are even more likely to be drawn to staged homes than in previous years, with 40% more willing to visit a home they saw online and 34% attributing a higher value to a home that was decorated to their taste. Additionally, more than a quarter of respondents were willing to overlook other property flaws if the home was professionally staged.
Pre-listing Prep Checklist for Clients
Pre-listing preparation is crucial to help you successfully market and sell your properties as a homeseller. A comprehensive pre-listing prep checklist can ensure that nothing is missed before listing the property. Here are some items that can be included in a checklist:
- Clean and de-clutter. A tidy and clutter-free property is essential to appeal to potential buyers. Remove personal items (including pets) and excess furniture. Hire a professional cleaning service if necessary.
- Complete repairs and maintenance. Any outstanding repairs or maintenance issues should be addressed before listing a property. This can include fixing leaky faucets, replacing broken tiles, and repainting scuffed walls.
- Clean the entire home. Entire home cleaning involves thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing all areas of a home, including surfaces, floors, bathrooms, and kitchen appliances.
- Enhance curb appeal. First impressions are important, and the exterior of a property is the first thing potential buyers will see. Tidy up the yard, trim overgrown bushes, and add some colorful flowers or plants to enhance curb appeal.
- Stage the home. Staging involves arranging furniture and decor to make the home look inviting and lived-in. This can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the home and increase the chances of a successful sale.
- Prepared documentation. Ask your REALTOR to prepare all necessary documentation, including disclosures, inspections, and any required permits.
- Professional photography and videography. High-quality photos and videos are essential for showcasing a property online and attracting potential buyers. Invest in professional photography and videography services to ensure that the property is presented in the best possible light.
What’s Next?
You now have a better understanding of the benefits of pre-listing preparation and staging when selling your home. By following the pre-listing prep checklist, you can ensure your home is ready for the market and stands out from the competition.
Staging your home with the help of professionals can improve the overall appeal and help potential buyers visualize themselves living in the space. Remember, a staged home typically sells faster and for more money, making it a worthwhile investment.
Get a referral from your REALTOR to a reliable Loan Officer to create a better relationship and increase your chances of closing the deal.
