Linda Sticklin

You are smart to have the house staged prior to listing! Each room should have one defined purpose. The master bedroom should not contain a home office. This gives buyers the impression there is not enough room in the house for an office. Not to mention, most buyers want a bedroom that is perceived as a luxurious master suite. Depending on the number of bedrooms in your home and your target market, it may be appropriate to stage one of the bedrooms as an office. Best of luck! - Thu Jul 3 2008, 10:55

In the current market, it is critical that a house show its best. With alot of inventory to choose from, buyers want a house that is updated and move in ready. Staging can help the house appeal to the most potential buyers. Most stagers provide consultations (detailed recommendations in order for seller to complete the work) at a set fee. $200-$300 is fairly standard in my area for this service. Costs associated with staging a vacant property will include furniture rental, accessory rental and the staging fee. In this case, costs will vary depending on the number of rooms to be staged, size of home, etc. Most stagers will provide a complimentary proposal after viewing the property. In addition, stagers will provide staging services for occupied properties. This often includes decluttering, depersonalizing and furniture rearrangement . Again, the costs will vary depending on the amount of work (and time) required to complete the job. - Thu Jul 3 2008, 10:50

Consider painting the white walls a warm, neutral color. Neutralize the faux finish in the master bedroom. Give every room one clear purpose and highlight a key feature in each room (view from a window, fireplace, etc). Remove the clutter from the lower patio area. Add some curb appeal with some seasonal flowers in the beds/by the front door. Best of luck! - Sat Jun 28 2008, 07:13

What is the feedback the realtor has received from those that have seen the house? I would not advise a major kitchen remodel. Instead, focus on decluttering, depersonalizing, neutralizing and low cost updating. If you are having difficulty getting buyers in the door, is could be lack of curb appeal or that buyers do not like what they see posted on the MLS photos. Best of luck! - Sat Jun 28 2008, 07:04

It is really variable, depending on the size of your home and amount of furniture/accessories needed. Most stagers will provide a complimentary proposal for costs after viewing your property. It is rarely necessary to stage an entire house. Obviously, staging select rooms is less costly. Staging is a very smart marketing strategy in the current market! - Sat Jun 28 2008, 06:52