Staging Sells Houses
Staging Tip - Staging An Empty House
Carol & Randy Heimpel, Home Steps
We have had many individual clients and realtors over the past few years who have found themselves in the dilemma of trying to sell an empty house. One very important fact to remember is that an empty space is not the answer to making a house appear larger. Very often it can do just the opposite. It is the careful and tasteful placement of the right furniture pieces that works to effectively define a space, determine functionality and give a home personality. Leaving it up to the imagination of the potential buyer to determine what items are required within a given area can often prove be totally counter-productive.
The good news is that it is not always necessary to furnish and accessorize an entire house. A general rule of thumb is to tackle the major areas of activity (perhaps the main floor of a two storey home)or an irregular space that presents a definite challenge in determining its purpose. You’ll get far better mileage out of renting traditional pieces in neutral shades which can then be colourfully accessorized rather than selecting “way-out” pieces that detract attention from the features of the space. Co-ordinating drapery swags can warm the window areas at a fraction of the cost of a full set of blinds or draperies. A few carefully placed lamps and art pieces will complete the picture nicely without overwhelming.
Renting furniture can be an expensive proposition for the vendor if they are not careful and do not work closely with an experienced stager. An approximate cost of $600-$750 for each of the living room, dining room and family room spaces is a good estimate, with kitchens and bedrooms coming in at considerably less. It is at this time when we may encourage the vendor to perhaps purchase an item of furniture which may be of interest rather than having to return a rental piece for which he / she may have further need in the future.
As an FYI, the cost of furniture rentals and accessories for a three bedroom house can range from approximately $3000-$5000 depending on the size of the house and the items selected. It is much better to make the decision to commit to this financial investment before putting the house on the market rather than after the fact. By setting the stage for greater potential interest in the property in the beginning, this could eliminate the possibility of having to lower the asking price $20,000 to $30,000 later on, due to lack of activity.
Furnishing empty houses is essential because staging sells houses.
Take the time to look at our new web site at http://www.homesteps.ca/
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Contact the Jeffrey Team for more information - 416-388-1960
