My marketing team joined me on a recent episode of “Ask the Expert” on News Radio 710 with Uncle Henry. James Avera of Avera Design and Jana Rae Ryan with Simply Southern Staging did a stellar job stressing the important role that professional staging can play in solidifying the market value of your most valuable commodity! From the home buyers first impression of the property online, to the more personal tour, Jana and James share a common mission to make sure that each of Jason’s listings is perceived as warm and inviting.
During the show, Jana Rae made some excellent points that Jason hopes his sellers take to heart. First, homes are bought on emotion and sellers need to ensure that their home is one that potential buyers can connect with, as they will never get a second chance at a first impression. Second, only 10% of home buyers have the ability to put on rose colored glasses and see beyond the clutter, pink rooms, blue carpet, fowl odors and the dishes stacked in the sink. Sellers would be wise to relate the home selling process to dating. You would not go on a first date in your bath robe with coffee stains down the front and morning breath. You should look your best if you want a shot at a second date and the same goes with the real estate courtship. So, if you want buyers to come back for a second showing, then make sure your home looks like a model home from the curb to the closets!
The biggest objection sellers have of home staging is that it is going to be too costly. Jana asks that sellers keep in mind that staged homes sell over 80% faster than a non-staged home, which minimizes the need for deep price reductions. Price reductions less than $5,000 are often not effective. Jan Rae’s costs on owner occupied homes is under $1,000 and vacant homes can range from $1,000 to $3,000. Would you not make this minimal investment upfront, to net 5 to 20K more at the closing table? There is reason why new construction model homes are always staged! She ended her powerful interview by stating that the home staging “investment is minimal and the impact is priceless!”
Once the home is ready to show like a model home, it is James’ job to make sure the home stands out online. He adeptly noted during the show that “web appeal is the new curb appeal!” James sends his home owners a list of to-do’s to make certain that they are prepared for the photo shoot. With over 90% of consumers starting their home search online, a seller can’t afford to miss an opportunity to make a connection with the a buyer. He asks that sellers pretend that he is a photographer for Southern Living magazine and your home has been selected for a featured article on South Alabama real estate. How would you want your home to be perceived by their readership? Why would we not want to create a similar warm and inviting showing environment with visitors who are trying to envision their life in your home?
For a free, no-obligation consultation with Jason Will and his professional marketing team, simply contact our office at 251-866-6464 and start packing!