Monday Market Update: The #1 Room Not To Stage When Selling

We know that sellers have heard all the statistics about staged homes. With potential buyers impacted by the trends they see online and on HGTV, they expect more than potential purchasers of decades past. Data shows that staged homes sell for 1-10% more than un-staged homes, and on a 73% faster timeline. But like anything in real estate, staging requires a strategy – and a new article from Realtor.com® outlines what that is. 

First of all, rooms where staging makes the biggest difference in attracting buyers and paying a return on investment are the kitchen, the bathrooms and the family room. If you are going to make upgrades in your home and fully stage rooms – these are the focus areas. Experts advise improvements such as fresh paint, updated lighting and refinished flooring. Staging accents should be neutral, maximize the use of space and provide ideas for livability and enjoyment while allowing room for personalization & imagination. 

Perhaps more importantly, experts advise what rooms not to spend much time & money on – the spare bedroom! A beautiful nursery or fully equipped exercise room may turn away more buyers than they draw in, as overly customized flex spaces do not appeal to the broadest range of potential buyers. Many agents discourage sellers from extensive built-in cabinetry or shelving and unique finishes. Instead, consider removing window blinds to maximize light, focus on deep cleaning and cosmetic repairs and strive for an un-cluttered, nearly blank canvas feel. This way buyers can envision how they may use the space, rather than how the space’s current adaptation may not fit their needs. 

Did you learn anything new about staging today? Find more information in the full article ‘Don’t Touch This Room in Your House If You Want To Sell’ here. 

Cheers to a great week,

Bobbi 

Bobbi Decker
DRE#00607999

Broker Associate, Bobbi Decker & Associates
650.346.5352 cell
650.577.3127 efax
www.bobbidecker.com
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