This condo was ready to go on the market. The only problem? It’s vacant. Contrary to popular belief, a vacant listing doesn’t appear to be larger. It often appears smaller. The other problem? A vacant property stays on the market longer. why? Because 90% of buyers are unable to envision the space. Check out this home staging before and after transformation.
In this blog, I will explain the process of what’s involved in a vacant home staging. Not only did we see the before and after transformation, but also everything that happened in between in order to turn this condo into a marketable product.
The Before Story
As I mentioned, we needed to get this condo market ready. It’s a beautiful condo in the Ottawa area, but it was vacant. My job as a home stager requires me to make sure this happens. Not only that, I need to create an inviting space that buyers can envision themselves in.
GOALS: In this case, I was working with a realtor, Jane Scott. She needed to get this condo ready for her client. Of course, the goals are the same: to get this property sold and for maximum profit.
Bringing the Project Together
The process starts with a visit to the condo with Jane. From there, I get an idea of the scope but as well as Jane’s desires for the final product. It’s a cozy condo, that’s less than 10 years old so it has all modern amenities– but it needs that homey touch that you’re not going to get from an empty room. Then I take measurements and start getting an idea of what we need to do and bring it in. Following the consult, is a trip to National Furniture where the sourcing begins. I take my estimate, and start factoring in additional costs of not only my time, but as well as the additional accessories that we need. Once the final estimate is approved, and everything is booked, the fun begins. I start picking out accessories from my own personal inventory that I think will work in the space. I need to take into account not only the style, but the existing colors. Often times, I will have what I need, but sometimes I will need to supplement in order to create my final vision. In this case, I ended up purchasing the throw cushions and the picture to complete the look. No big deal, as shopping for décor is what I do and I was excited by my finds!
The After Reveals
The final product! Suffice it to say, I was quite pleased with the end result. As this is a two bedroom condo, and space is a commodity, I need to find furniture that fits the room without eating up the space. In this case I found a mid-century modern gray loveseat but also used a glass top dinette along with a coffee table end tables. It’s ideal if you don’t want heavy dark furniture that will “weigh” down the room.
A Happy, New Beginning
In the end, it’s a win-win-win situation for everyone involved! Jane was thrilled with the final product, the sellers were thrilled at the quick sale–1 day on the market!– and I was thrilled because it was another opportunity to do what I love!
I love the before and after transformations, because it really illustrates what a different staging can make to the overall appeal of your home. And the cost? Far, far less than your first price reduction. If you need help getting your home show ready, we are happy to help!
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Until next time,
