The beginning of each new year always feels like an appropriate time to reflect on the previous 12 months while looking forward to what the next 12 may bring. This year we've decided to assemble our list of Top 10 Home Staging Success Stories for 2009. While we had a variety of projects, both home staging and design, we'll limit this list to those that sold quickly or had particular challenges to overcome. In re-visiting these projects we hope to share some valuable staging tips that will help others as well.
NUMBER 9
2 Bedroom Apartment Model Unit, Milwaukie, OR
One important factor to consider when professionally staging a property is to know your target market. In this case, we were staging the model unit of an apartment compex that is intended for 55+ which determined the look of the design. The management company was looking to attract an older clientele, possibly those downsizing from single family homes. They wanted it to look elegant and upscale so it appealed to those that could afford the premium rent of these nicely remodeled units.
The spacious living room in this apartment was essentially two rooms. The two chairs are facing a large sliding glass window that has a beautiful view. Having two scenarios in the room while drawing attention to the focal point (the view) made this room come alive.
How often have you come across lighting that is not centered or placed correctly for the furniture? In this case we had to cheat the table to allow adequate flow for potential renters. If the table had been centered under the light there would be no room to walk between the cabinets and the chairs. Also, having a lower centerpiece kept the eye from going up to the ceiling and the tree and art draw the eye to the wall.
Since there were only two bedrooms it was important to show that a workspace/office could be included in the unit. By placing the desk on the wall this room could function as both a guest room and office allowing potential renters to see the multiple options they had for the room.
The master bedroom is very large, but we wanted it to feel cozy, while remaining elegant.
The use of warm lighting and neutral colors throughout achieved the look that renters fell in love with.
We first staged a unit as a model and then it rented quickly. We then moved the staging to another unit that had been remodeled. After that unit rented it was moved again. Ultimately all the two bedroom units rented and we've moved the staging to the three bedroom model for the units that they are currently remodeling.
Staging works not only for sale - but for leasing as well! This is something we learned time and time again in 2009.
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Join the Realtors, Investors, and Homeowners who call Synergy Staging to make their properties irresistible and sell quickly! For more tips or to see our latest home staging projects, visit us on Facebook and read our Portland Home Staging Blog. Please call us at (503) 557-2244 for a free no obligation quote so we can help your home sell faster in 2010.
Hi David
Very impressive. It's always refreshing to see other male stagers that do such great work.
Male or female it is your use of art, furniture and decor that makes for a fantantic photo and I'm sure beautiful in person as well. Great example of your expertise!
David ~ You and Nik did another great transformation here. It's so important to remember that the rental market needs our services as much as the residential market.
David-thanks for sharing the "why" of what you did, and what a difference!! Before the rooms were just cold and empty, but with your creativity, the rooms became something very livable. Great idea about using a lower centerpiece. . . I didn't even notice the table being off-center from the light.
Milan ~ Thanks for the comments. It's always refreshing to see male stagers at all! =)
Margaret ~ Appreciate your feedback. And yes - all of our properties look better in person, don't they?
Maureen ~ The rental market definitely needs our services. We hope to expand into this area more in 2010.
Kathy ~ I'm glad you didn't notice the table being off-center. Each property always gives us challenges that we have to address to buyers can see the full potential.
GREAT to see the transformation and that there is staging in some markets for rentals....have not seen that much in the Bay Area...maybe there's a new opportunity!! Pictures look terrific!!
You knew I'd be waiting with baited breath for #9 - glad it was posted so quickly! Great zoning of the large living room. I also like the age appropriate furniture. It looks comfortable, elegant, but not outdated. My parents would love this place. So when's #8?!!
NICE job! Greatpics!
Kathy ~ I think the rental market offers a great opportunity for both us and the clients. You should look into it in your area. Thanks!
Sally ~ Glad your parents would love this space!
Colleen ~ Thank you!
David... staging has limitless opportuntities. Thank you for show a brilliant side ;)
Lori ~ We just have to be creative and search out all the opportunities that are provided us. Thanks!
The proof is in the pudding. YOU (stagers) really can make a difference. Your pictures show exactly to a buyer how a room can/should look. Vacant homes can be hard to sell.
Greg ~ You summed it up perfectly. Glad to know that you as a Relator support home staging.