Have you ever seen people with too much make-up and thought, “They would look so much better and natural with less embellishments”? Well, it is the same when it comes to property and staging it for a sale. If the home is over-staged, it could put off potential buyers, not only because it does not appear natural, but it may also appear too good (especially for virtual viewers) so that it leaves a sense of disappointment when they actually visit the site.
The professionals involved in the property market, including the top estate agents in Berkhamsted would advise against over-staging when putting property on the market. Staging a home is definitely necessary to make it alluring, but going “over the top” could end in an opposite result.
Given below are some ways to avoid over-staging your home.
Natural look: Buyers want to have a good look at what they are putting their money into and envision what it could look like. For this, the best way is to make the house look as natural and genuine as possible. The rooms should be given a thorough clean-up. Windows should be open, curtains drawn and natural light should be optimised to make the house airy and welcoming.
Declutter: In line with the above, unnecessary items should be removed, as there is nothing more off-putting than a cluttered house. Rooms should be as empty as possible, with only a few pieces of furniture placed strategically to enhance space. Light is important so, to attract as much natural light as possible, a mirror could be placed opposite a window. Mirrors can be used to reflect artificial light, too.
Neutral: To enhance the natural look, neutral colours should be chosen. Painting a house is necessary but here again, it is wise to depersonalise as your taste may differ from that of the viewers. Some colours can affect people’s emotions. Neutral tones will make it easier for the potential buyer to imagine the house with his/her own colour scheme and interior design.
Kerb appeal: First impressions are important and, if a potential buyer is not impressed with the “kerb view”, then it is unlikely he/she will be interested in buying the property. Hence, it is important to ensure that the outside of the home is simple, but impressive. The grass should be mowed, footpaths cleaned, flower beds weeded, leaves raked and bushes trimmed.
Do not overemphasise: An over-staged property is always easy to spot, because of too much of everything – furniture, wall hangings, cushions, a set dining table and floral decorations. However, just one vase filled with bright and colourful flowers could be welcoming.
Selling a lifestyle: The seller is offering a “way of life” to a buyer. Besides the home, the buyer is purchasing a lifestyle. The home should be staged in a simple manner, taking advantage of opportunities to highlight the attractive areas. Personal taste should be kept out of the viewings.
Necessary accessories: While avoiding clutter, simple white linen on the beds and fresh towels in the bathrooms can assist in making a good impression. Similarly, high ceilings can be exhibited with window hangings; in the same way, low ceilings can be concealed.
Clean and tidy: As simple as they may seem, these two aspects help in attracting buyers. They mean that the home is kept in a hygienic condition which is always an asset to a prospective buyer. Ensure that the trash has been taken out, the kitchen sink is spotless, and no dirty laundry is visible.
Comfort: Energy preservation is important but when allowing people to view your property, make sure that the temperature is comfortable – not too hot or too cold. If in winter, switch on the heating. In summer, keep the windows open or allow the air conditioner to cool the place. Viewers who are not comfortable will be distracted and unable to concentrate.
Suspicion: No one likes to feel that he/she is being pushed into buying something. That is just what a seller does when he tries too hard to sell by over-staging. An over-staged home is easily noticeable and may make potential buyers suspicious. The motive for the sale may be questioned. However, if the person just likes the look of a staged but not over-staged house, the interest in buying it will remain flowerstips.
Conclusion: A property definitely needs to be staged to enhance its advantages. However, over-staging a home can be detrimental. A professional in the business said “Less is always more when it comes to staging a home.” This is so true musicalnepal!
