In today’s real estate market, competition can be fierce.
Houses are taking longer to sell and potential buyers are able to shop around
for their perfect home. To get the competitive edge on other homes for sale in
your neighbourhood, a home stager can help sell your house faster and for more
money.
Kathy Wood, certified
staging specialist and owner of Divine Redesign, helps clients sell their home
by enhancing the house’s market appeal and creating a memorable experience for
potential buyers.
“First impressions are critical,” explains Wood, adding that
it takes 60 seconds for a potential homebuyer to decide whether they could live
in the house. Once that impression has been formulated it stays with the buyer
as they walk through the rest of the house.
“We make sure that the house is showcased in such a way that
it accentuates the positives of the home,” Wood explains, adding that personal
items are removed and the house is decluttered.
“We try to capture the warmth of the home to create an inviting space,”
says Wood. Home buyers are more likely to purchase a home if they feel a
harmony throughout the house.
To help entice a potential buyer, Wood brings in props and
furniture. Everything from cushions, florals, throws, runners for the kitchen
and dining room tables, and small pieces of furniture like chairs and tables.
She has a collection of décor accessories that she uses to bring that designer
touch to a home.
Existing items in your home are also used to create a warm
and inviting atmosphere. Wood calls this shopping the home.
“Shopping your home is going through the house to find
different pieces that we can display.” Another technique is to create groupings
throughout the home. Art work, accessories, and furniture can be moved around
and displayed to create a lasting impression.
Clients may have existing art work that can be used in conjunction with
other items provided by Wood. Home staging is all about helping your home stand
out among the competition.
For more information on having your home staged, visit
www.divine-redesign.com.
