The Art Of Staging
I’m often asked what sells a home for top dollar and in a timely fashion. My answer is location, pricing and staging. Yes, staging is ultimately that important. Susan Roy, with Nashville Design & Custom Interiors is truly the best in the game. Her experience, talent and sheer ability to read what needs to be done to a space to bring the most appeal is truly a gift. She’s an instrumental part of my listing team. Invaluable. Read on as Susan provides some feedback on her process. I hope you enjoy her nuggets of insight and wisdom.
Q: Can you let everyone know your background and experience with design and staging?
A: I’ve been a designer for over 25 years and a stager for the past 10. I’ve seen just about every design trend out there and definitely have my favorites.
Q: Can you give a snap shot of what your process looks like? From the initial walk through of the home and coming up with the staging game plan?
A: Before a home goes on the market, I recommend doing a walk through about three weeks in advance with the homeowner. I find this to be extremely valuable as myself and the homeowner prepare a plan to get the home ready to list. This gives the homeowner time to make any repairs, hire a painter, clean and even lighting updates. Sometimes I give a list of to-dos and the homeowner takes care of everything. Other times, I walk through to give an estimate for staging. I will provide furniture, art, accessories, rugs.... basically everything the home needs to look designer-ready for potential buyers.
Q: Is there a certain room or feature in a home that you feel makes all the difference when staging?
A: The most important room in staging is the kitchen, but the great room also must command a solid first impression. This is where everyone spends most of their time. These two rooms need to have great flow and feel spacious and current.
Q: Do you have a specific style that you have with your design or does it vary home to home?
A: I don’t really have a specific style when designing or staging. I look at the home and potential buyers and plan accordingly. My favorite style is traditional and I feel that is appreciated by a broad spectrum of potential buyers.
Q: What advice would you give sellers when it comes to getting their home ready for staging if they are still living there at the time?
A: It can be really challenging to live in the home when it’s for sale. Living as simply as possible is the key. Pack up everything that you don’t need. Also, it’s a great idea to keep a container for toiletries to use and throw them under the sink each morning before you leave your house. Make sure your home is super clean. Immaculate.