Whether prepping a property to sell or rent, staging is KEY!

One of my best staged properties was a small little condo off of Drexel.  My clients were the perfect “stagers”.  Each time I scheduled an appointment to show the unit, I arrived to a calm soothing sound of light music, a cool fresh breeze (from the air conditioning adjusted to the perfect temperature) & a lovely smell of the fragrance that had been placed by the door.  There is no better first impression than that first smell or feel when you first walk into a property.  It’s priceless.  This property also sold fairly quickly in a very slow market.  I am fairly certain it was because it showed really nicely (along with good pricing) and created a little buzz within this price point.  Other agents liked showing it to their buyers.

I always try to convey this to my sellers and rental listings, first impressions are everything in our business.  Once we have a broker’s open or after a showing occurs, not only do the buyer’s have word of mouth but agents do too.  Agents like showing nice properties.  There is nothing worse than taking your buyers around to properties that are dirty, cluttered or not properly set up to show.  It’s embarrassing and moreover, buyers want to see the best of the best.  There are only a “rare” few who can actually see through a property that is not properly staged.

A few tips for best practices in staging your Miami Beach condo or Home for sale (or rent):

1. The first thing the prospective buyer will see is your lawn (if you have one).  Fertilize if needed and always keep your lawn and landscape neatly trimmed.
2. Your front door welcomes the prospects so always make sure it is clean and even give it a fresh coat of paint if needed.  A seasonal décor adds a warm touch.
3. Decorating helps assure top dollar and a quick sale.  Faded walls, work and scratched woodwork reduce appeal.  Fresh paint or wallpaper adds charm and value to your property.  Prospects would rather see how great your home looks now than hear how good it could look with a little work.
4. Clean windows show the bright side of your home. By opening draperies and curtain, you highlight your walls and ceilings.  This lets prospective buyers see how cheerful your home can be.  Be sure your windows are sparkling clean.
5. A clean kitchen is a MUST. Many buyers judge the housekeeping by the oven and stove.  Clean the interior of your dishwasher, removing stains especially on the door.  Clean out your kitchen cabinets and pack away items not needed.  Counter tops should be clean a FREE of clutter.
6. Sparkling bathrooms help sell your home. Repair caulking in bathtubs and showers.  Shower doors, ceramic tile and grouting should be free and clear of soap film.  For added allure, use your best towels, mats and shower curtains.
7. Avoid cluttered appearances by removing excess furniture and other items that you seldom use.  Keep newspapers, toys and other articles picked up.  Clean stairways are essential.  Objects on the stairs are dangerous.
8. Consider your closets. Neat well-organized closets show that there is ample space.  So start by removing or packing items that can be stored elsewhere.  Now is the time to box those unwanted clothes and donate them to charity.
9. Repairs are required. If closet doors are off their tracks, doorknobs are loose or screen doors don’t close, don’t try to explain these sticky situations when you can easily remedy them.  A little effort can smooth the way towards closing.  Make a to do list and fix these items now.
10. Check faucets and bulbs. Dripping water rattles the nerves, discolors the sing and suggests neglect to the potential buyers.  Have them fixed so you get top dollar for your property.
11. Make room for space. Remember potential buyers are looking for more than just comfortable living space.  They are looking for storage space too.  Make sure your attic and garage are clean and free of unnecessary items.
12. Think safety. Homeowners learn to live with all kinds of self-set booby traps:  roller skates on stairs, slippery throw rugs, low-hanging overhead lights.  Store away children’s toys.  Make your residence as non-perilous as possible.
13. Most people like pets. BUT they tend to distract attention and some people are terrified of them.  If you have a pet, we suggest you keep it out of the way, preferably out of the house.

And if you really want to get into how detailed you could be, watch Jeff Lewis on Bravo’s Flipping Out….  he knows how to stage!

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