Why Homeowners Often Skip Professional Home Staging—and Why They Shouldn't
When selling a home, presentation can make or break a sale. Yet, many homeowners shy away from professional home staging, often due to misconceptions, fear of costs, and skepticism about its value. Here's a closer look at why homeowners often skip this crucial step and why investing in professional home staging can be one of the smartest decisions you make in the selling process.
What Homeowners Think Home Staging Is
Before diving into the misconceptions, let’s define what home staging really is. Home staging involves professionally preparing a property for sale by enhancing its visual appeal. This can range from arranging furniture, updating décor, and even minor renovations to create a welcoming atmosphere that highlights the property’s strengths.
However, homeowners often have a skewed perception of what home staging involves:
"It’s Just for High-End Homes": Many believe staging is only necessary for luxury properties or high-end markets, thinking their average home doesn’t need it.
"It’s the Same as Interior Decorating": Some homeowners confuse home staging with interior decorating. While both improve a home’s appearance, staging focuses on creating a neutral, appealing environment that helps buyers envision themselves in the space.
"It’s a One-Time, Static Process": There’s a belief that staging involves a one-time setup without adapting to feedback or the evolving market.
Fears and Misconceptions About Cost and Value
Cost Concerns: Homeowners often worry that professional staging is too expensive, particularly when they believe they can handle it themselves. They might think, "If I can declutter and rearrange furniture on my own, why spend extra money?"
Skepticism About ROI: There’s a pervasive fear that the investment in staging won’t yield a significant return. Homeowners might question whether the cost of staging will truly impact the final sale price or speed up the sale.
Doubt About Effectiveness: Some are skeptical about whether staging will genuinely make a difference. They may think, "If my home is priced right, won't buyers see past any staging issues?"
The Reality of Home Staging: Stats and Facts
1. Cost vs. Return on Investment
While the initial cost of professional staging might seem high, the return on investment (ROI) is substantial. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), staged homes sell for 6% to 20% more than unstaged homes. Moreover, 85% of staged homes sold for an average of 17% more than their unstaged counterparts.
2. Faster Sales
Staging doesn’t just impact sale price; it also affects how quickly a home sells. Homes that are professionally staged sell 73% faster than those that are not, as reported by the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA). This can be particularly crucial in a competitive market where time on the market can impact a buyer’s perception of value.
3. Increased Appeal
Staging helps to highlight a home’s best features and make it more appealing to potential buyers. The NAR reports that 88% of staged homes had a positive impact on buyers' view of the home and 80% of buyers’ agents believe that staging helps buyers visualize the property as a future home.
4. Competitive Edge
In a market with numerous listings, a well-staged home stands out. A study by the National Association of Realtors found that 90% of buyers start their home search online, where photos play a crucial role. Professionally staged homes often feature better-quality photos and virtual tours, which can significantly enhance online appeal.
Addressing the Concerns
Cost: While the cost of staging can seem daunting, consider it an investment rather than an expense. The potential for a higher sale price and faster sale often outweighs the initial cost. Additionally, many staging companies offer packages to suit various budgets.
ROI: The statistics clearly show that staging pays off. A relatively small investment in staging can lead to a significantly higher selling price, making it a financially sound decision.
Effectiveness: Home staging isn’t about masking flaws but rather about presenting a home in the best possible light. Even well-priced homes benefit from the enhanced presentation, helping them to attract more buyers and potentially leading to quicker offers.