In this insightful Realtor Magazine post, interior decorator and professional stager Patti Stern explodes six myths about home staging.
The Cost of Staging
For example, some sellers consider staging too expensive. In reality, it actually saves you money because 95 percent of staged homes sell in 11 days or less and sell for 17 percent more than homes that are not staged. Thus, staging costs are lower than the carrying charges (mortgage, utilities) you will pay if the house takes a long time to sell.
The Difference Between Decorating and Staging
She also points out that decorating and staging are different since professional decorators consider the home owner's tastes while and a professional stager understands the marketplace and has the experience to prepare a home so it appeals to as many potential buyers as possible, regardless of taste. They also have the objectivity to neutralize and remove items that distract from the home's main features while owners are hampered by emotional attachments.
Why Do It Now?
And, staging is not just for vacant homes; professionals can provide tips to keep the home showing-ready while you are living in it. Finally, staging is not a "wait to see if it sells first" decision and should be done before listing your property.