Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS HOME STAGING?

Home staging is the act of preparing homes for sale in the real estate marketplace.

Typically, home staging specifically refers to rearranging or renting furniture and decor to showcase the property in its best light. Highlighting harmonious traffic flow, architectural focal points and the illusion of maximum space. The goal of staging is to make the home more appealing to the highest number of potential buyers, thereby selling a property more swiftly and for more money. Real estate agents should typically recommend staging to their clients as the #1 marketing tool to sell a house

WHY SHOULD I STAGE MY HOME?

Staging increases the perceived value of the home.

However, some sellers may not be aware of staging and how effective it can be. It’s often a realtors job to show homeowners how the home is worth a small investment in staging when it goes on the market. When staging is a part of your marketing plan, it reduces time on the market and maximizes profit. Don’t leave money on the table, dress your house for success! See Staging Statistics here.

WHAT CAN I DO TO GET MY HOME TO STAND OUT FROM THE COMPETITION?

Selling your property in today's real estate market requires a lot of hard work and dedication. You're in competition with existing and new construction. 

Anything that will give you an edge over the competition should be a plus to you when you are trying to sell your home. Staging gives you that edge!

Leaving your home “as is” actually helps sell the competition

IS STAGING TAX DEDUCTIBLE?

STAGING IS TAX DEDUCTIBLE

Staging services can be considered an advertising fee (See IRS Publication 523) and these selling expenses include commissions, advertising fees*, legal fees and loan charges paid by the seller. 

*Staging a home for re-sale is considered an Advertising fee.  There are no time limits on the Advertising Fees related to the sale for the IRS.  However, it is important to note that if a property does not sell and is taken off the market; expenses for that transaction are NOT deductible in the future. Check with your accountant for full details.

http://www.irs.gov/publications/p523/index.html

A Home Gain survey found that sellers who spent money on staging recouped 100% on their investment. 

Staged properties will sell faster when compared with houses that have not been staged. From the date of listing, until the day of closing, home staging shortens this time frame in both a buyer's and seller's market.

WHEN SHOULD I CALL A PROFESSIONAL STAGER?

As soon as you decide to sell your home..

• Before the MLS photos are taken
• Before the "FOR SALE" sign goes up
• Before your first open house
• Before your first price reduction

The investment in staging will always be cheaper than your first price reduction