That is the question.

Some people have the misconception that staging is simply about ‘decorating’ and getting the home prepared for sale. Yes, this is partially true, however it’s so much more than simply cleaning, de-cluttering, organizing, looking after deficiencies and adding a vase of fresh flowers.

Think of staging like when you’re getting ready for your first date with someone new, someone special, someone you want to impress. What do you do? Take a shower, brush your teeth, put on some deodorant, cologne and/or perfume, and then get into clothes that make you feel confident, handsome and ready to take on the world. You know, ‘the usual’ routine. But what’s the extra effort you’re willing to take to make sure this date is a resounding success? For men it could be a fresh haircut, a new tie, a stylish hat or decorative cufflinks? For women, maybe it’s a luxurious cashmere scarf, designer clutch, killer red lipstick or delicate strand of vintage pearls. You know, the little things that show you’ve really taken the time and attention to make an impact and positive first impression. Which brings me back to staging – it’s about the small details.

Friends across the hall recently staged their home and I was blown away by the difference it made. I could actually SEE the countertops in the kitchen, and their kitchen was HUGE – not to mention the fact that I didn’t even realize they had a spacious storage/flex space until it was transformed into a functioning office. To be blunt, they had a lot of ‘stuff’, and staging their home has made it look bigger, brighter, cleaner and more inviting. It’s highlighted the beautiful features of the home – soaring 10.5” ceilings with oversized windows, beautiful granite countertops and stainless steel appliances in an open-concept kitchen with island, polished concrete floors, a walk-out patio, and the list goes on…Now when people walk through the home, it’s easier for them to imagine making it their own, versus being overwhelmed and distracted by looking at other people’s possessions.

So how do you get started? First, you want to check if your realtor includes this in part of their fees (some do), otherwise you can search online or visit the Canadian Staging Professionals website. In Vancouver some of the key players are Revamp, Dekora and Spacelift.

Then it’s simply a matter of doing an assessment with the hired professional on how they want to approach your space. Some stagers may recommend bringing in ALL new furniture and accessories, while others will work around your key pieces and incorporate additional items of interest for that special finishing touch. There’s definitely some flexibility about how to achieve the look and feel that works best for you and your home.

How much will it cost? Prices will vary depending on where you live, the size of home and whether it’s vacant or not, with ranges between $3,000 for an apartment up to $40,000 for a large single family home. Some of you may ask, is it really worth spending that extra money? Several studies show that staging offers a great return on investment and has proven itself as a reliable way of selling your home faster and for more money.

So again, you just need to ask yourself if it’s right for you – to stage, or not to stage?

Krista Shirreff