Staging Do’s and Don’ts

by Ted Stumpf 01/19/2020

Photo by John Wollwerth via Shutterstock

No matter how well-intentioned, when it’s time to sell your home taking the advice of friends and family while disregarding the advice of your agent is a recipe for slowing down your home’s sale. Your professional agent knows the current market and what buyers look for. In fact, they may even have specific buyers in mind; so mind your agent’s input for staging your home.

When staging, remember these things and follow your agent’s lead:

They know the competition. Your agent has seen other homes like yours on the market. They recognize that when buyers see two or three similar houses in the same neighborhood, the one that resonates is the one they choose. Pitting your DIY staging against a professional’s is not the battle you want to take on if selling your home is your goal.
Less is always more. Your agent knows that fewer pieces of furniture show your home better. But these aren’t just any pieces of furniture. Specific pieces attract buyers, while others repel them.
The same holds true for collectibles. Some buyers cannot see themselves in a home with specific memorabilia and collectibles. This group includes sports and competition awards, trophies or doll and figurine collections. Even rock displays can be off-putting. Anything that personalizes your home makes it harder for buyers to see themselves there.
Be willing to paint. Even if the deep, ocean blue wall evokes restful imagery to you, it may instill irritation in a potential purchaser. If your agent suggests toning down a color or painting a room in a neutral rather than orange, go with it. The best options are pale shades of cool or warm neutrals that showcase architectural details such as trim and crown-molding.

For the most exceptional selling experience, trust your real estate professional. They know the market, the pool of buyers and the competition. If you’re ready to put your home on the market, call for a consultation today.

About the Author

Ted Stumpf

Ted draws energy and joy from building synergetic relationships with his Clients. Ted's nature is graciously gregarious and persevering; he's honest; and he's been dedicated to a substantial list of clientele throughout his 25 years in the hospitality business and almost two years as a REALTOR. His passion is creating a sincere, successful relationship with people.

Ted grew up in a family of Realtors in central Indiana, earned a degree in economics and philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, and jumped into all aspects of the restaurant business. His ensuing hospitality career path eventually led him into the Event Management Sales & Service role in hotels and quickly guided him to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and finally to a luxury resort in the Napa Valley, where he, his husband, and their dog have resided for almost a decade now.

The irony is not lost on Ted that his ‘growth’ journey has culminated in“living happily ever after” in an agricultural area with a small-town feel and sense of community strikingly reminiscent of his youth…and as a REALTOR nonetheless!