Where does the staging process begin? It is not as extreme as seen on TV. It generally begins with pairing down…a purging of not only the daily clutter, inside and out, but furniture and accessories that have defined your personal comfort and livability. I will take stock in several areas such as: wall treatments and condition, flooring, kitchen appliances, lighting and bath fixtures. Most buyers don't immediately want to paint, change the carpet, redo the floors, or repair and stain fence, etc. In today's climate buyers want a place that WOWS them…a home that feels immediately livable (even if it is not exactly their taste) for a year or two without any additional expense or hassle.
What is your approach to staging a room? I approach the space like a 3-D painting. As I stand within a space I become aware of all details. I "unlock" functional furniture groupings to make the home appear lighter, brighter and more spacious. My talents lie in knowing how and where to add or subtract accessories and furniture…utilize color, texture and lighting…artfully creating “must have” atmosphere.
What do you use to stage a house? I pull from the homeowners furnishings. I also have "props" which I utilize if a space requires it. These items remain with the home until it sells and are included in the staging fee.
What projects are worth the money investment? I am frugal in my staging strategies. A lot can be altered and updated without having to spend tons of money. I have assembled a team of people to provide skillful service at reasonable prices. (i.e. painters electrician, handyman, & carpet cleaner) I also work with local businesses to provided discounted services.
Keep in mind: The investment in staging is always less than the first price reduction.
What if I am no longer living in the home I want to sell, is staging necessary? Empty homes do not sell as fast as furnished homes. They "read" smaller than they actually are. Developers of subdivisions know this and that is why they spend a great deal of money to decorate their model homes…they understand the POWER of a home that looks good, smells good and feels good.
I am able to put together small furniture rental packages without having to decorate the entire house and utilize items from my “prop closet”. The “furniture hints” anchores a room and gives the buyer a better sense as to what will fit in the space.
"For eight months my house was on the market without any offers until you brought in your expertise. Unbelievably I had 2 contracts within 48 hours of my home being staged." ---Ros Keltee
"We wanted to be sure and express our thanks to you again for everyting and everyone that you helped secure for us related to the repairs and upgrading. You did a fantastic job and we're sure that your "magic touch" helped sell the place. ---The Raupach's
THE STAGING PROCESS STRIKES A BALANCE BETWEEN ARTISTRY AND AN EDITING EYE; IT BALANCES SENSITIVITY TO PERSONAL ATTACHMENT WITH A NEED FOR ELIMINATION; IT BALANCES A SENSE OF CREATIVE PRESENTATION WTHIN THE CONTEXT OF LIVING...IT OFFERS BUYERS SOMETHING MORE.
What is your background? I am an artist* and trained creative arts therapist. I have been self employed for over 30 years. I studied with Barbara Jennings, recognized author and national consultant in the field of Staging/Interior Redesign. Developing my business, Home Detailing, has allowed me to combine my artistic passion and psychological skills. They work in concert, creating a solid base for conceptualizing and implementing consistent room designs and understanding the emotional intricacies surrounding the sale of one’s home.
*To view my art work visit Mystic Etchings: hand-painted furnishings
What are your fees? My rates depend on the job. On average, staging begins at $400.00 and a consultation is $125 - $150.
Candace Hutchison 502.749.2136 candi@4r.com
