The argument for staging a house to get it ready for sale is largely based on what are perceived as the shortcomings of vacant, or unstaged, properties. For one, advocates of the staging process say a vacant home distracts would-be buyers from focusing on the actual real estate.
River Towers Living Room
Instead, they allow themselves to speculate on the possible reasons the house is on the market — divorce, financial straits, and other scenarios — as well as on any defects the property may have. Small flaws, like nail holes and worn carpeting, are much more noticeable when the rest of the space is empty. Additionally, a vacant home allows dust to settle and stale odors to linger and spread, cutting short showing times and generating fewer sale chances.
All of these factors lead prospective buyers to submit low-ball bids on vacant homes. Other times, they will not even make a bid at all because empty dwellings simply do not allow them to make an emotional connection to the property. They may not even be able to visualize how their own furnishings may fit in a room, causing them to lose interest, say staging professionals.
Which rooms do you find more appealing?
Sunroom in a vacant unit
Montebello’s Living Spaces
The carpet has some staining. I would recommend changing the floor on this level to a laminate or vinyl.
Living room near the window
Living area with a contemporary feel at River Towers
An empty dining area
living room at the Jamieson
Carpet in a vacant bedroom doesn’t call to a buyer.
Hardwood floors in a vacant unit don’t translate well in pictures and don’t make much of an impression in real life.
Julie Nesbitt is an ABR who has served buyers in some of Alexandria’s most exclusive neighborhoods. She is a top producing agent who has listed and sold property in Northern Virginia. In addition to helping folks buy, sell and rent property in Northern Virginia, Julie is the primary administrator of the property management services performed by Nesbitt Realty and Condo Alexandria. Call Julie at (703)765-0300.
