02.15.10 - Attitudes and perceptions are changing in the real estate market about how to present property for sale.   I hear broker’s comments and they are beginning to understand the value of showing properties which are visually stimulting.

My education to them is that whereas property used to be shown in “as is” condition, that is no longer the case.  My service extends to more than vacant properties because 75% of the properties on the market are owner occupied.   When explaining my service, I say that ours is a service business, to improve and showcase any type of real estate.  We must think like a contractor and have the skills of an interior designer to prepare property.  Starting with a consultation of the existing home, a stager guides the seller with what to do to get his property ready for the open house.  Staging is not just for vacant properties, rather the value is in an initial review or consultation.  Statistics are showing faster sales as a result of the efforts of this profession.

About the Author:  Barbara Brock is owner and principal of Sold With Style, a property consulting company serving New York City and surrounding areas.  Sold With Style provides home sellers, builders and developers, and their real estate agents advice on how to prepare their home for market.  Services include home staging, consultations, project management, and strategies on improvements that provide return on investment.  Barbara offers commentary, advice, and tips on home staging, interior decorating and design topics.