If the topic of selling your home has come up, you’ve probably heard about staging. What does this mean, and can it really help you sell your house faster or for more money, or preferably both?

When you hear the word “staging,” you might picture fancy interior design. And you wouldn’t be entirely wrong. The idea is to make your home look stunning and boost its perceived value. But staging a home for sale is a different ballgame compared to decorating for yourself.

Why Staging to Sell Is Different Than Personal Design

Imagine spending endless hours and a small fortune cleaning, scrubbing, decluttering, and upgrading your home. You’ve even hired an interior decorator to work their magic. And voilà! In your eyes, it’s perfect. Everything is in its place, and the design flows beautifully. But here’s the catch: It’s perfect for you. Not for your buyer.

And that is the difference staging makes. Done correctly, it has the opposite effect. It appeals to potential buyers, but maybe not to you. How does it work?

The idea is to create a blank canvas for potential buyers to fill in with their imagination. As they step into each room, they envision themselves living there, throwing parties in the backyard, and having a blast during game night in the kitchen. How do you achieve this effect? Start by stripping away all those personal touches you’ve added to your home.

• Bye-bye, family photos! Farewell, religious memorabilia and beloved knick-knacks! 
• Replace those personal items with tasteful but impersonal artwork and other decor items. It may sound a bit cold to you, but it creates a warmer, more inviting ambiance for potential buyers. 

And the numbers don’t lie. According to the Real Estate Staging Association, staged homes tend to sell faster and often fetch a higher price.

Looking for even more tips for a successful sale? The following resources are a step in the right direction:

• Secrets to a Successful Condo Sale in Winnipeg
• 3 Things to Know Before Selling Your House in Winnipeg
• Our Marketing Expertise

Can You Sell a House Without Staging?

What if you’re not up for this whole staging extravaganza? Maybe you’re thinking, “Why bother? Winnipeg is booming, and buyers will come knocking regardless.” In a hot market, you might be right. Think of it this way: Staging may not be necessary to get the sale, but it is usually helpful. 

• In a slow market where buyers are few and far between and taking their time, staging can make them stand up and take notice. It could be the subtle effect that pushes them over the edge and makes them decide to place an offer.
• Even when the market is bustling with activity, staging your home can help your listing stand out from other sellers.

The benefits of staging your home are well worth your effort, particularly if it leaves you with extra money in your bank account after your transaction closes. Earning a few thousand dollars more can go a long way toward helping you afford your next dream home!

A Professional Touch

Should you consider hiring a professional staging company? Depending on the age of your home and how much work it needs, there are several benefits to bringing in an outside expert. You can sit back and relax as the transformation occurs before your eyes! And the math could work out in your favour, especially if the house needs some TLC. 

On the other hand, a newer home may need minimal updates to prepare it for the market. How can you decide? Many real estate teams offer a complimentary staging consultation to determine what, if any, decor changes should be made.

Why are so many Canadians packing up and moving to Winnipeg? The articles below might provide some insight:

• 5 Reasons to Move to Winnipeg Right Now
• A Guide to Winnipeg’s Entertainment District

The Staging Process Made Simple

When you see those stunning before and after photos, you can’t help but be impressed at the transformations. But when you think of the work involved, it can feel overwhelming. Some stagers go all out, painting, remodelling, and replacing every piece of furniture and artwork in every room. 

And it isn’t even the process itself that scares some sellers off. It’s the idea of living in a staged home and being afraid to touch anything lest you ruin the magic. However, a massive overhaul likely isn’t necessary. A few minor decor changes can be all it takes to help a buyer visualize your home as their own. Here are a few simple, low-maintenance ideas that can make a powerful first impression.

• Clean, declutter, then declutter some more. The more paraphernalia you remove from the house, the easier it will be to create that blank canvas.
• Remove every unnecessary piece of furniture. Having fewer items can help make the room appear bigger.
• Concentrate on the main rooms. The kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms typically get the most scrutiny from potential buyers. You can relax a little when preparing your basement or laundry room.
• Add natural light. Open all the curtains before potential buyers visit, and consider replacing dark panels with soft sheers. 
• Decide on a focal point in each main room. An accent rug, a lamp, or an attractive piece of art can add visual interest while highlighting the best features of a room.

When staging your home, try to see each room through your buyer’s eyes. This could be the slight edge you need to enjoy a fast, seamless transaction.

Do you have questions about staging or preparing your home for the market? Our local real estate experts are standing by to help you get the most from your sale. Reach out to us at info@goodfellowrealty.com or call 204-224-2551 for more information.