To Stage or Not To Stage Episode 7

To Stage or Not To Stage Episode 7

“STAGING TO SELL IS DIFFERENT THAN STAGING TO DWELL” Karen Otto

barbara_corcoran_staging_necessity-2This weeks episode welcomes a guest Karen Otto who calls herself the stageucator. Staging used to be a commodity and only used for the upper end homes, but our guest explains how staging a home can be done easily and really on any budget. She even references Barbara Corcoran of Shark Tank fame and a legend in the real estate world as saying “Home staging used to be optional. Today, it’s a necessity in selling a house.” I know I can personally attest to homes sold here in the Pensacola area that were staged always sold for more. Let’s dive in to get some tips on what we can do.

(02:47) Karen expresses her desire for more people to learn about staging and proudly promotes the Real Estate Staging Association Use this resource to help find a local professional in your area. (06:10) Karen discusses our headline “Staging to sell is different than staging to dwell” (10:21) Ever wonder what your rate of return on the cost of staging would be? Our guess sheds some light on the increase value of homes sold even when the market is not commanding the prices. (11:15) I just had a client selling a condo in Orange Beach Alabama ask me what they should put away and what they should keep out as part of their de-cluttering process. Here Karen gives you a good rule of thumb. You will not want to miss this tip (11:39) Karen continues on the de-cluttering discussion and brings up an excellent point on security thoughts while de-cluttering. Could your children be at risk? (13:11) Lighting is so important in showing the property. “There should be at least 3 corners in a room lite” Karen Otto. Also listen to what she hates when it comes to lighting a master bedroom. (14:50) Buyers will make decision on the “feel” of the home in the first few minutes. See how Karen teaches other stagers and clients how to look at the home through the buyers eyes? There is a tip here about the front door you do not want to miss. (16:02) I hear this all the time.” Shane I am ready to sell my condo in Gulf Shores Al. Should I paint it”? Listen to what the expert has to say about painting a property and even a room. virtual-staging-sample-300x187virtual staging sample 300×187 To Stage or Not To Stage Episode 7(17:27) Karen discusses the phenomenon that is virtual staging. This is where the staging is done via computer only. Karen discusses how the misconception  could lead to some serious letdown and even wonders what the ethical boundaries of this is. She references a pretty good Washington Post article Title.

 

 

Home shoppers beware of click-fix digital makeovers

The article shows how the disappointment could lead to resentment. (20:10) Karen starts to discuss the cost of staging a property. We dive into cost associated with vacant properties and occupied properties. (21:48) What to ask a stager prior to hiring them. This part of the interview you do not want to miss (25:43) Does a home stager only rent furniture and try to sell you on the rentals? NO!!!! Here Karen discusses her most popular request of how you can stage your home on your own with just a little advice As a professional Pensacola Realtor I pride myself in bringing education to the public. Staging a property is a vital part to showcasing a property to maximize your sale price. Staging is different than decorating. I hear all the time that the person up the street got X for their property and I know mine is better. Just like our guest said as long as you are willing to do the same thing as X did your correct it should demand the same price. If not expect less. When someone is looking to buy a home here in Pensacola they are most likely going to start online. A good staged (and Photo’d ….but thats a different episode) property will ensure the eyeballs online which should turn into showings and a good contract. I recommend everyone evaluate if this is right for you (but most of my clients do and thats why my team and I are number 1 in the state icon smile To Stage or Not To Stage Episode 7 To get in touch with our guest Karen Otto please visit homestarstaging.com or you can find her on Twitter at twitter.com/homestarstaging. Make sure you tweet out a thank you to Karen using @homestarstaging on Twitter