Staging - a process of neutralizing, decluttering, organizing, and beautifying - allows potential buyers to picture themselves living in the house by tapping into their emotions. Staging also starts the "letting go" process for the sellers, as they transform their beloved home to a more neutral-looking home.

A staged home looks similar to a model home. For examples of how your home should look to get the best price, visit some local model homes during their open house periods. 

Staging will help you sell your home quickly, at the best possible price. A 1999 Palo Alto real estate survey found that staged houses sold in an average of 14 days for 6.32% more than the asking price, while unstaged houses sold in an average of 31 days for only 1.6% over the asking price. Even if you're just thinking about moving, it is never too early to start. You'll have plenty of time to stage your home, and you'll get to enjoy your improvements for a while, too! And remember: many improvements related to moving can be tax deductible, including the fees for staging your home! Check with your accountant for more details.

Professional stagers assist homeowners by offering advice on clutter clearing, furniture placement, creating "emotion" settings, and much more. Stagers also offer an objective view of a home - a fresh eye and perspective. 

Some stagers own and rent out furnishings if a homeowner needs higher-quality or more neutral decor. These professionals are called "full-service stagers." Other stagers work with what you already own, making recommendations for purchases of only small-priced items when necessary - perhaps a new shower curtain to brighten a dingy bathroom, a beautiful vase full of fresh flowers to welcome visitors in the entryway, or a sparkling new kitchen faucet to add visual interest. Home stagers can tell you:

* what buyers are looking for in a new home

* how to give your home curb appeal

* which inexpensive improvements will add value to your home

* which expensive improvements could be poor investments 

* room-by-room staging suggestions

Hiring a professional stager is a great investment, ensuring a quick and lucrative home sale.

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