How to Elevate Your Home Sale – The Art of Staging
Set the Stage for Success
In the intricate dance of selling a home, presentation is everything. Just like a well-composed symphony, staging a home requires a delicate balance of elements that harmonize to create a masterpiece.
Ashley Jeffery, Broker at Lake of Bays Realtors, had the privilege of sitting down with Stephanie Ott, owner and Lead Designer at Ott Interior Design to learn more about home staging. After having her own home staged for nearly 3 months in 2022, she has a clear list of do’s and don’ts from the home owners perspective.
“Staging isn’t about decorating; it’s about creating a lifestyle and atmosphere that potential buyers can envision themselves living in.” – Stephanie Ott
**Declutter and Depersonalize** ~ One of the cardinal rules of staging is to remove personal items and excess clutter. Stephanie emphasized; “A cluttered space distracts buyers from seeing the potential of the home. Depersonalizing allows them to visualize their own family living in the space.”
**Maximize Space** ~ In today’s market, space is a premium commodity. “Arrange furniture to maximize flow and emphasize the sense of space,” Stephanie advises. “It’s about creating an illusion of spaciousness, even in smaller areas.”
**Highlight Key Features** ~ Every home has unique features that deserve the spotlight. Whether it’s a cozy fireplace or stunning bay windows, Stephanie advises that “Highlighting these features draws attention and adds value to the property. It’s about showcasing what makes the home special.”
**Updating Light Fixtures** ~ It isn’t merely a matter of functionality; it’s an opportunity to infuse each room with style and sophistication. Whether it’s swapping outdated chandeliers for sleek, modern designs or installing statement pendant lights to accentuate focal points, Stephanie advises, “Choose fixtures that complement the overall aesthetic of the space. They should be visually appealing while enhancing the ambiance of the room.”
**Deep Clean** ~ According to Realtors and Buyers, there is nothing more off-putting than a home that doesn’t come across as clean! A deep clean can lay the groundwork for a successful first impression. It’s not just about erasing dirt and grime; it’s about creating a pristine canvas upon which the unique features of the home can shine. As prospective buyers step into a meticulously cleaned space, they’re not just viewing a property—they’re envisioning the possibility of a new chapter in their lives. Stephanie Ott, a professional stager in Muskoka, emphasizes the importance of a thorough clean, stating, “A clean home isn’t just visually appealing; it signals to buyers that the property has been well-maintained and cared for.”
**Neutralize the Palette** ~ While bold colors may reflect your personal style, they can be distracting to potential buyers. Stephanie recommends, “Opting for neutral tones on walls and furnishings, creates room for the potential buyer to imagine how they can put their own personal touches on the space.“
The Impact of Staging
The benefits of staging are undeniable. According to Stephanie, “Staged homes typically sell faster and for a higher price than their unstaged counterparts. It’s an investment that yields significant returns.”
Final Words of Wisdom
As our conversation drew to a close, Stephanie shared her final thoughts on the art of staging. “Staging is not just about making a house look pretty; it’s about telling a story. It’s about creating an emotional connection between the buyer and the home. When done right, staging has the power to transform a property into a dream home.”
In the symphony of real estate, staging takes center stage. With the guidance of professionals like Stephanie Ott, every home has the potential to dazzle and delight prospective buyers, leading to a harmonious finale: a successful sale.
If you would like to learn more about staging your home or have any other interior design questions, we highly recommend Stephanie of Ott Interior Design.
