Views vary widely on the value of hiring a professional stager to prepare your home for sale. Many real estate agents swear by it and have years of sales to back up their claim. They cite their own impressions, sales history and evidence to underscore that professional staging adds value to the home.

Should you hire a stager?

Before you answer that question, consider the research results behind these two very important questions regarding the value of staging:

  • Will the home sell for a higher price?
  • Will the home sell more quickly?

 

Will the home sell for a higher price?

According to ASP®, the Accredited Staging Professional training organization, citing a report by The International Association of Home Staging Professionals®, staged homes sell for an average of 17 percent higher price. That is a considerable return on your investment. On a $750,000 home, that 17 percent would amount to a whopping $127,500 back in your pocket!

 

Will the home sell more quickly?

According to The International Association of Home Staging Professionals® study, staged homes sell within an average of 11 days. Agents that swear by staging, their homes spend 73 percent LESS time on the market and are subject to fewer concessions to the buyers.

 

Who do you believe?

When the market is strong, some agents believe that staging may be unnecessary because certian types of properties may already be in demand. In a softer market, or a specific price range however, staging your home will lift it above the competition, setting it apart, and ultimately prove its value in the end result.

HomeGain points out that staging is more that just painted walls and well-placed furnishings. True staging appeals to multiple senses including smell, mood, temperature, sight and memory.

What has more than 20 years of experience proved to me?

The most important asset to selling your home as quickly as possible and for the most money is to rely on the extensive knowledge and experience of your real estate agent. Although I do not always recommend hiring a professional stager, over 90 percent of the time, I do recommend home staging, in some capacity, to my clients. In cases when hiring an outside company to stage the home is not necessary, I stage the home myself.  In doing so, I work with each of my sellers and their unique home and decor styles to ensure that we remove as many obstacles as possible from a buyer’s mind by showcasing their home in the best possible way.  I know your market, have studied your home’s competition and have a vested interest in making the best recommendations for you.