Some time ago I viewed a small, vacant 1 bedroom condo and after submitting a proposal to merchandise the property for sale, the homeowners decided they could save money by doing it themselves. They were very nice people and when they called to let me know their plan I sincerely wished them a speedy, profitable sale. They purchased some furniture, set it in place, had it photographed and waited for the offers to start rolling in. It didn't take them long (only a couple of additional mortgage payments) to realize that their listing wasn't capturing the attention of potential buyers. Have a look... can you see why?
You will notice it is a small, fairly narrow living room (not uncommon for a 1 bedroom, downtown condo these days). To the right of the sofa is a door leading out to a patio.
From this home stager's point of view, what they did isn't all bad. They used an area rug to anchor the seating and they chose light, somewhat "airy" furniture. What they didn't realize is....
- Heavily patterned rugs make small spaces seem even smaller and pull potential buyer's eyes down.
- Positioning furniture right up against the walls does not make rooms feel more spacious.
- Flow is as important as function.
- Color is crucial for setting a mood and creating interest.
- Greenery provides an element of "life".
- Angled flooring and furniture can visually widen a room.
- Artwork keeps buyers eyes up and moving throughout a room.
- Accessories enhance and help soften furniture.
- Good photos are crucial for generating buyer traffic.
Jackson West is the founder of Reveal Estate Home Staging and a Certified Staging Professional Instructor. His interior redesign work can be seen in the book "Home Staging For Dummies" as well as magazines including multiple editions of the "Staging Standard". He is also featured on a television series for the W Network. While his niche has long been downtown properties in a higher price range, the principles of design, functionality and flow he implements are equally effective in every home.
What a great job you did! I love that the story has a happy ending, even happier when it sells! This shows how important it is to retain a good relationship with the client even after they choose not to hire you initially. They realized the error of their ways and remembered what a professional you were...
Hi Sharon,
Here's to happy endings! I am always amazed at the added impact accessories "bring to the table". Thanks for stopping by and for your kind words.
Jackson, it looks wonderful. The right furniture and accessories plus a well balance of color is always more appealing than just furniture alone. The work of a true talented professional!
as always it looks gorgeous! Is there anything you can't do! KH
Hi Jackson, Your styling is spot on as usual. Love your video clip, you are made for the camera!
Well, Jackson, this new television adventure on your video link looks so exciting!
I cannot wait to see more. . When will we be seeing you regularly in the W Network? You clearly have a knack for not only staging, but explaining it with precision, and with presence!
If I can't get this show in my area, I think I am going to have to relocate...
~Michelle
This living room went from ho-hum, boring and flat to "buy me now." Let us know when the quick sale occurs!
Your rooms inspire me! I never realized how crucial the greenery element is in each room when staging until I attended your CSP class. Clearly you have the midas touch...
Great work as always. It's not often we get to see before and after shots of owner staging and professional staging. Thanks for sharing!
Jackson - love your video clip. Hopefully we'll all be watching you on TV soon. Good luck.
Fabulous work, as always!!! I'm so glad that the homeowners called you back. We've had a couple here who lately have said that they can purchase the furniture rather than rent it.... now we can't wait to see what they end up with. I've seen it happen before, and like your example they don't understand the concept that this is more than just putting some furniture in the place....
This room went from a sterile Hospital waiting room to a warm inviting chic downtown pad. As always beautiful work Jackson, cheers to a quick sale!!
Emily,
Emily Hagerman Design
WOW Jackson this is great. So when do we get to see you on TV? I love your camera presence and what Candice had to say about you. Also love your on-camera attire. TOP NOTCH all around!
Jackson! GORGEOUS staging as always! I am loving that art! Great message to homeowners...there really is so much to consider. Your example is perfect and I will be re-blogging this! Loved your video as well! You are so much fun to watch!!
Perfection! There are no other words to describe your staging!
Congratulations. Your post is being featured in the group Staging Before & After Pictures.
Kathy
Hi Jackson! I am getting to my post now and now lost my nerve. You always have the most gorgeous rooms. I never have anything like your homes to stage! You are my "Property Stylist Idol"! Love the youtube! Where do I see more of the W Network??
Amazing Jackson. The room looked so sterile and unwelcoming before. As my Grandmother used to say "Bless their hearts for trying" but this is proof positive that staging should be left to the professionals. This property will undoubtedly sell SO much faster now, great job!
Will people ever learn that just because it LOOKS easy...! Goodness, they needed your help in a big way. Beautiful work.
Simple changes, maximum results - it takes a professional to see it - great job Jackson!
You took it from looking like a furniture storage unit to a warm, inviting space. Such simple changes, yet they were all critical in making this space look like a home. Very nice!
Jackson, you have done a great job here. It is simple and sophisticated. Very nice.
Jackson, just saw Maureen's re-blog of this post. One of the best examples I have seen of what a Professional Home Stager can accomplish vs. sellers doing it themselves. Fabulous work!
Really good post.
I've had sellers comment that they will do it themselves because it appears all we do is make the bathrooms pretty.
They called back later for a full stage.
The extra months of mortgages make up for the costs of the staging.
My, my, my!!!! . . . oh, and did I say, Whoo Hoo, HOO!
what a difference you have made and I loved the story behind the photos!
I'll be the owners were doing a lot of mea culpa. That was an expensive mistake! You made it look terrific.
That was a gross looking room before you got there. Thanks for that. I love the before and afters!
Jackson - I need to use that line "just a couple of mortgage payments" that gives homeowners such a clear understanding! Love it. Kym
Jackson - I also love looking at your work. You always inspire me.
Jackson: Isn't it amazing how a Professional Stager can work magic. People always assume that since they have seen it done on tv, and they make it look easy that they can do it themselves. I am a HUGE believer in BLING! and these photos demonstrate just how important accessories and properly placed furniture can make the difference. GREAT JOB!!