12 Reasons that Staging Pays

1. Faster sales time Staged homes sell much more rapidly than non-staged homes do. Marketing experts indicate that staged homes sell 30 to 50% faster in most areas.  This is important, because the longer a home is on the market, the more likely there will be a sales price reduction.  Buyers think that if a home has been on the market for some time, that there must be something wrong with it or that the seller will be anxious to sell and will take much less than the asking price.

2. Positive impression First impressions are positive on staged homes, rather than negative.

3. Less than a minute Research has shown that buyers initially make up their mind in less than a minute on whether they want a home or not.  Therefore, curb appeal is key.  After a buyer's initial decision in the first minute, they will either confirm that decision or rescind it in the next 6 to 20 minutes as they view your home.

4. Ready to move in Staged homes appear to be in “Ready-to-move-in” condition.  Buyers overwhelmingly prefer homes where they can just move in and start enjoying life in their new home.  They will pay a premium for this.

5. No imagination needed When only 5% of the population can truly visualize how beautiful a home can be or see past the clutter, grime and so-so appearance, then staging becomes paramount for a fast sale at a great price.

6. Competitive advantage Staged homes have a competitive advantage over other homes that are not staged.

7. Well maintained Staged homes give off the appearance of being well maintained and cared for.  This is the underlying psychological message that is sent to potential buyers.

8. Appraisers Appraisers see the home in a more positive light and are more likely to appraise the home higher than a similar non-staged home.

9. Shown more Properly staged homes are shown much more often by REALTORS®, for they enjoy showing a property that is attractive and excites buyers.  Well- staged homes are always at the top of the list when it comes to which homes an agent will show.

10. Extra showings Homes which do not meet a buyer‘s exact criteria, but which are well staged, often get shown anyway.  The agent feels that the beautifully staged home may be an exception to the buyer’s criteria.

11. More advertising Brokerage firms enjoy advertising beautifully staged homes, for they draw more business to their firm.  You, as the seller, will benefit from their extra promotional materials and marketing.

12. Higher sales price The better a home shows, the more that it will sell for.  This is more dollars in your pocket. Non-staged homes are more likely to require price reductions in order to sell, versus staged homes, which are more likely to have a number of offers and possibly a bidding war, or to sell over the asking price.