Do you realize home staging is critical in these economical times?  Studies have shown that most home buyers make a decision about a house within minutes of walking in the door.

-          Staged homes sell 50% faster than 'un-staged' homes

-          Staged homes sell for an average of 6.9% to 10% over listing prices

-          76 of realtors surveyed suggest staging to clients

-          The first reaction happens within 10 minutes

-          Providing photos on the internet is critical

Home staging is about illusions. It's beyond decorating and perception, it involves decluttering and appeal. It's all about perfecting the art of creating moods. Staging opens your house to interpretation. 

Contrary to popular belief, it's about more than preparing the house for sale and cleaning off the countertops. Yes, it will involve cleaning, de-cluttering, painting, repairs and renovations if there are outdated areas (ie., bathrooms, kitchens, etc).  It entails a less is more mentality; it is less about design and more all about dressing the house for sale.  It is about selling the features in a home.

What is a Professional Home Stager?
Professional stagers are highly skilled artists. They can take a blank canvas and paint an awesome portrait without ever lifting a paint brush. Stagers possess the skills of a top-level designer.  Professional Stagers create dramatic scenery that appeals to the buyer. Here are some of their secrets:

• Arrange sparse pieces of furniture in a grouping to help the potential buyer visualize their furniture in the place.
• Drape window coverings with simple lines and minimal detail to show the pool in the back, the beautiful landscape or gorgeous covered deck
• Add unique elements to shelving, bookcases and fireplace mantels, which draw attention to predetermined areas
• Remove area rugs to open up the space

Professional Stagers Tricks and Tips for You

• Use cinnamon oil air freshners as a great way to keep the room fresh but not overly done.  You only need 2, no more than 3, throughout the house.
• Place bottles of water on the countertops for visitors.  Do not forget napkins with home printed on them. 
• Recommend applying orange oil to cabinets that appear dry, which will renew their original luster
• Place large bowls of fruit, preferably real, such as apples, bright oranges, and bananas on the breakfast nook table
• Add white towels, tied with ribbons, as great touches for the bathroom then add a candle or two and soft greenery for a fresh appeal in the bathroom.  Remove mats to make the bathroom appear larger 
• Declutter, put personal items, especially pictures, mail and magazines with your name on it, away.  Generic magazines can remain out but use a black marker to scratch out your name.

Carnela Hill, MBA is a certified stager and interior design specialist.  Located in Raleigh, NC she is the owner of Interiors By Renee & Associates www.interiorsbyrenee.com.