No Vacancy
Vacant homes on the market are one of the hardest to show for several reasons; the majority of consumers shop online and pictures of empty rooms don't grab a buyer's attention like they should and may make it hard to figure out the purpose of the space. The first impression tends to be cold and unwelcoming due to the fact that the only thing for a buyer to look at is empty space, which highlights the flaws of any home.

In this market, house hunters don't take the time to use their imagination and make the extra effort to picture themselves in the space. It's imperative that the seller be willing to go the extra mile to get results. I have noticed that some sellers are leaving a few pieces of furniture behind when they move out with the hope that these items will help showcase the features of the home.

I think homeowners are on the right track when they realize that some pieces should remain in the property in order to show buyers what size furniture the rooms can accommodate as well as draw attention to the focal point of each room. I also believe that throwing an old chair and table next to the window or leaving aunt Edna's china cabinet in the dining room is not doing the home justice. Staging a house takes more than the odd piece of furniture and leftover artwork.

I absolutely suggest homeowners beg, borrow, and only if they have to, buy things to put in the home, but make sure that what is used will work with the spaces and actually highlight the features, not distract buyers. Selling a home is complicated and if the property is not prepared correctly, it could take much longer to sell than it needs to.

Staging Places recently staged this property in
Farmington Hills. Which do you think a buyer would prefer to look at? (click for larger pics)

If you can smell it,
you can't sell it!
The worst thing a homeowner can do, when they are dealing with unsavory odors is try to cover them up. Scents can linger in rugs, curtains, and furniture. Air fresheners will only cause buyers to wonder what you are trying to cover up and baking fresh cookies or bread for every showing is impossible.

The easiest and cheapest solution is to open every window and door to get a breeze in the space. Fresh air does wonders for all kinds of pet, food and smoke odors. Having the carpet and upholstered furniture cleaned will help as well.

Not sure if your house smells? If you smoke, use strong spices for cooking or have pets, you should assume that the house would hold these odors and take precautions.

Staging Faces

Birmingham recently hosted The 2008 Kids Helping Kids One Step at a Time Walkathon in downtown. The proceeds went to Children's Charities Coalition. Heather Durren, owner of Staging Places spent a Sunday helping to direct foot traffic. The day was perfect for the walk and the turnout was tremendous!