Setting the Stage

will help it sell quicker?"

A: Thanks for your question and it is one that has Sellers on the fence as to whether or not to go through the hassle. There is actually some factual data that we can draw on in order to try and answer this inquiry.

In 2003 when the market was strong, an organization called HomeGain researched the results of staging a home and found that a properly staged home or condominium sold for close to $3,000 more than an un-staged or vacant property. 

In 2005, the online training company Stagedhomes.com discovered that staged properties did indeed sell for 6.9 percent higher than other homes. 

These stats did lead many entrepreneurs to start home staging companies for both resort markets such as Cape Cod and primary markets. Staging fees range from $500-$1000 for consultations and actual staging.

Our buyers on Cape Cod seem to go off instinct and know immediately if they like a property based on a gut reaction when entering for the first time. If you are selling your fully furnished second home, make sure it is clean and de-cluttered at all times as if a renter will be using the property. Just doing this, according to HomeGain, made homes and condominiums sell for close to $2,400 more than the competing untreated properties. As for staging homes on the cape, if it is brand new and vacant, you may want to add a few pieces of furniture and touches to warm it up. However, there is no factual data to support that this will sell your property.

In my experience, the best thing to do is keep your house clean and ready for showings at any moment’s notice. Get rid of clutter and any extreme personal affects such as religious icons and an overload of family photos. 

The theory “less is more” is true in selling real estate. Just remember: Price it right, keep it clean and it will sell. Just be patient.