No, this isn’t really a post about home staging. I just read an interesting article on CNN entitled “Americans tightening their belt” which highlighted how we are making an effort to do with less in the face of rising costs. What struck me is how the economic crunch has moved beyond being a problem for those with mortgage issues or job issues, it is now is affecting the mainstream way of life for all – gas and groceries perhaps being the most critical. Yea, it’s personal now!
In times “like these” it’s interesting to see what people consider “essentials”. For example, cable tv and cell phones are apparently now non-negotiable for most when it comes to cutting back. Who knew!
But it’s not all bad. What an opportunity to build good habits:
- Awareness. We can learn to be more aware of our monthly expenditures and prioritize. Know what you earn and what you realistically spend, and be true to it. Now is not the time to rack up unsecured debt! Involve the whole family!
- Creativity. Be more inventive in finding alternative, less costly recreational activities (for all ages!). How about a potluck at the park with friends instead of dinner out?
- Resourcefulness. Adopt a more creative mindset to reuse what you have. It’s amazing what a little redesign can do for your home, wardrobe, or just about anything else (good for the pocketbook and the earth).
- Simplify. Slow down and focus on what is most important.
Yes, we’ll all feel like we’re making great sacrifices, but here’s my question to you: will you stick with any of the changes you’re making now when the pendulum swings back?
Just think, maybe you can retire earlier than you thought if you continue your newfound cost-saving ways!
There are many who would call the real estate market “desperate” from the seller’s perspective. Guess that depends on your price point, location and reason for selling.
But what are considered “desperate” measures? There are some who consider home staging to be a desperate measure. But since when was it ever a good idea to put your house on the market without consciously and strategically presenting it to your ideal buyer?
No, staging is not new, but the sophistication of staging has indeed evolved. It is not enough to prepare your home as if you were having a party or anticipating a visit from your mother-in-law. You need to compete aggressively with comparable homes in your market. As more and more homes are being professionally staged, the competition gets tougher and tougher.
A professional home stager will work with you within your budget to prepare your home to appeal to your target market (ideally BEFORE you list it)! Who knows, you might even get some ideas for your new home in the process!
The most common recommendation stagers make to homeowners is to edit furniture, accessories and clutter. This sometimes surprises homeowners who worry that their home will feel too sparse or cold.
Why should they take down window treatments that have treated them well over the years, and why wouldn’t buyers enjoy seeing their beautiful pictures of kids and past vacations? Doesn’t that make it homey?
Yes, it does…for the current homeowner! But a buyer doesn’t want to feel like they are trespassing, and they need to see the potential of the home for their specific needs, which may well be different than yours.
The purpose of hiring a stager is to get an objective perspective on how to best prepare your home for sale.
