For many months you've read our newsletters and seen our success stories and still we see many homes on the market in desperate need of staging. After talking to past clients we've realized that often times this is because many agents just don't have enough information. Each month we'll begin addressing some of the most common concerns. The first question on everyone's mind is...
Who pays? Agents seem to have concerns about this because they are afraid that if they hire a stager then we'll suggest that they should pay for us. Well this is simply isn't true! While most of our agent clients do pay for consultations as part of their marketing budget, the staging itself should be paid by the homeowner.
Consultations are typically paid for by agents because they help home sellers understand the need for staging and what exactly will be needed to get their home show-ready. The costs are low and typically help the agent save on
marketing costs during the selling process. (ie; less advertising, fewer open houses, etc.)
Actual staging jobs should be paid for by the seller, whether the home is vacant or occupied. Our experience is that when the seller pays they typically become more invested in the process. They keep their properties in better show condition, they understand the need for proper pricing, and why having a marketing advantage may be the difference between selling sooner verses later.
Don't worry, we know how hard you work and that you too have expenses that cut into your commissions. So, while paying for the staging consultation is a value added service to enhance your portfolio, and is often used to differentiate yourself in the marketplace; you don't have to pay for this service to be an educator of home staging's powerful benefits and value. We're happy to assist you with marketing materials, consultations and other staging services to help you sell your listings.
According to a National Association of
Realtors survey, homes that sold after
four weeks on the market; sold for 6%
less than ones within the first 4 weeks.