Staging “Do’s” and (Mostly) “Don’ts”

At least IMHO, staging is at least 80% subtraction ” removing, uncovering, and emptying out ” rather than addition, i.e., adding wall art, accents, flowers, etc. to the about-to-be sold home.

Exhibit A: NOT covering a big, light bay window with a dark, light-blocking panel TV (center right of photo, above).

Aesthetic vs. Functional

Any yes, there’s a big difference between what’s aesthetic and what’s practical or functional.

I’m fully aware that order of business #1 for the new owner ” especially if they have kids ” is to put back in the Mud Room all the stuff that the listing agent and/or stager encouraged the seller to remove.

Or, in the case of the home above, restoring the flat panel TV to its spot in front of the bay window (it looks like there’s not enough room for it over the fireplace).

See also, ““De-Clutter” vs. “Trash-Out”.”

About the author

Ross Kaplan has 19+ years experience selling real estate all over the Twin Cities. He is also a 12-time consecutive "Super Real Estate Agent," as determined by Mpls. - St. Paul Magazine and Twin Cities Business Magazine. Prior to becoming a Realtor, Ross was an attorney (corporate law), CPA, and entrepreneur. He holds an economics degree from Stanford.

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