When it comes to selling your home, first impressions count! I’ve seen firsthand the impact of proper preparation and staging on both the speed of sale and the final sale price. If you’re aiming for a quick sale and the highest possible return, investing time and effort into staging and minor home improvements is essential.
Don’t have the funds? That’s fine! We can help. As Compass agents, we have access to Compass Concierge—a unique program that will front for the cost of home improvement services with zero due until closing (restrictions apply). More on that below, but first, let’s talk about why staging is SO important.
Why Staging Matters
- Capturing Attention Online
In today’s market, most buyers start their home search online. High-quality, staged photos capture attention and can entice potential buyers to schedule a viewing. Homes that are staged are perceived as well-maintained and inviting, increasing your chances of getting more offers quickly.
- Highlighting Potential
Staging showcases your home’s best features and helps buyers visualize themselves living in the space. Empty rooms can feel cold and unwelcoming, but staging creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that draws buyers in.
- Justifying the Price
A staged home helps justify the asking price by presenting the property as polished and desirable. When buyers see a well-staged home, they’re more likely to understand and accept the value, reducing the chances of lowball offers.
How to Successfully Stage Your Home
- Declutter and Depersonalize
Clear out personal items and unnecessary clutter to create a clean slate. This helps buyers focus on the property itself rather than your belongings.
- Clean and Repair
Deep clean every inch of your home and address any visible repairs. A spotless, well-maintained home leaves a strong positive impression.
- Define Each Space
Ensure each room has a clear purpose. For instance, a spare bedroom could be staged as a guest room or a home office to help buyers see the potential.
- Neutralize Colors and Decor
Opt for neutral colors and simple decor to appeal to a broader audience. Buyers should be able to picture their style blending seamlessly with the existing decor.
- Maximize Curb Appeal
Don’t neglect the exterior! Power wash the driveway, trim the hedges, and add fresh flowers to create a welcoming entrance.
By the numbers:*
- 54% of homebuyers are willing to pay more for hardwood floors
- $400 is the potential return you’ll get on every $100 invested in staging you home
- 53% of sellers’ agents say staging decreases a property’s time on market
Get Fronted the Cost of Staging and Repair
Compass has funded more than $1B in Compass Concierge projects for sellers. It’s a hassle-free way to sell your home faster and for a higher price.
Our team can help you determine which services can deliver the greatest return on your investment. The process is designed for speed, so that work can begin, and your home can sell, as quickly as possible.
Covered services:
- Floor repair
- Carpet cleaning and replacement
- Staging
- Deep-cleaning
- Decluttering
- Cosmetic renovations
- Landscaping
- Interior and exterior painting
- HVAC
- Roofing repair
- Moving and storage
- Pest control
- Custom closet work
- Fencing
- Electrical work
- Seller-side inspections and evaluations
- Kitchen improvements
- Bathroom improvements
- Pool and tennis court services
- Water heating and plumbing repair
- Sewer lateral inspections and remediation
- More than 100 other home improvement services
How it works:
- We’ll help you decide which services can increase your home’s value the most and set an estimated budget for the work.
- When you’re ready to start, we’ll be by your side as you engage contractors and vendors.
- Once the transformation is complete, your home will go on the market.
You’ll pay for the services and any applicable fees when one of the following happens—your home sells, you terminate your listing agreement with Compass, or 12 months pass from your Concierge start date.
Selling a home quickly and for a high return is achievable with proper preparation and staging. A small upfront investment in time and effort can make a significant difference in attracting more potential buyers, receiving higher offers, and ultimately selling your home faster.
Need more advice on preparing your home for sale? Reach out today, and let’s get your property market-ready!
*source: National Association of Realtors
