Advice: Listen to Your Agent when Staging Your Home

Photo by John Wollwerth via Shutterstock

No matter how well-intentioned, when it’s time to sell your home taking the advice of friends and family while disregarding the advice of your agent is a recipe for slowing down your home’s sale. Your professional agent knows the current market and what buyers look for. In fact, they may even have specific buyers in mind; so mind your agent’s input for staging your home.

When staging, remember these things and follow your agent’s lead:

• They know the competition. Your agent has seen other homes like yours on the market. They recognize that when buyers see two or three similar houses in the same neighborhood, the one that resonates is the one they choose. Pitting your DIY staging against a professional’s is not the battle you want to take on if selling your home is your goal.
• Less is always more. Your agent knows that fewer pieces of furniture show your home better. But these aren’t just any pieces of furniture. Specific pieces attract buyers, while others repel them.
• The same holds true for collectibles. Some buyers cannot see themselves in a home with specific memorabilia and collectibles. This group includes sports and competition awards, trophies or doll and figurine collections. Even rock displays can be off-putting. Anything that personalizes your home makes it harder for buyers to see themselves there.
• Be willing to paint. Even if the deep, ocean blue wall evokes restful imagery to you, it may instill irritation in a potential purchaser. If your agent suggests toning down a color or painting a room in a neutral rather than orange, go with it. The best options are pale shades of cool or warm neutrals that showcase architectural details such as trim and crown-molding.

For the most exceptional selling experience, trust your real estate professional. They know the market, the pool of buyers and the competition. If you’re ready to put your home on the market, call for a consultation today.