Staging VS Decorating
The first big difference between staging and decorating is the purpose for what each service is used.

Real estate staging is use on properties before they are place for sale, with the objective of achieving greater returns and a faster sale. To improve the feel and look of the property, I use techniques specially developed by self such as; de-personalizing, neutralizing color palettes, de-cluttering, furniture placement, accessorizing etc...

Decorating is quite the opposite. Since the purpose is to please the resident of the property, decorating is usually a very personal thing and guidelines used are very unique and therefore, personal.

My staging techniques are specially design to work using the least amount of work, time and budget. Any work needed to be done will be shared between the vendors & my self or my assistant.  I will execute my share during the second visit. It will be then that I will provide my vendors with a list of “basic suggestions”. Although these suggestions will be crucial to the overall result, vendors may decide not to execute all or even any of the work. At the same time, other vendors may wish to take it further by doing what I call the “A step ahead” work. However, at the end, only the vendor determines how much staging he wants.

Now that you recognize the difference between the two, I would like to show you some of my very own staging techniques present in most of my listings.


Firstly : CURB APPEAL
The importance of first impressions. Nothing says welcome like good curb appeal.
As a kind Realtor that I am, I often drive my buyers to the property for sale. Often enough, I hear their comments and see their reactions. They start inquiring about the town it self, then the area, as we approach to the street, they quite down and observe the neighbour's properties to compare. Ultimately, they stop talking as their emotional senses kick in. Feelings begin to take over as soon as they see the front yard.  Sometimes, That's all they want to see and don’t bother going inside. Others, they can’t get inside fast enough. As location is virtually unchangeable, smart vendors use curb appeal to attract buyers. Let me tell you what they want to see.


Here are some of my easy techniques:
1. Clearing & cleaning
2. Making it safe.
3. Adding colour & style.
4. Window washing.


Basic suggestions
Even the most inconspicuous buyer will notice a silent doorbell, a ripped storm door net, unsightly pet waste or a full ashtray at the entrance. Do not let your chance to sell faster sleep away. Take action!

A step ahead
For some vendors, painting the front door and garage door in complementary colours, to the exterior of the property, could be highly beneficial. The effect could dramatically improve the looks and feel of the property when done correctly. Exterior colours, material and styles of the property will help determine the right colour palette.

Home Work For motivated vendors:
Clear up the way.
According to the season, try removing dead plants & leaves, trash & debris, un-seasonal decorations (Christmas lights, plastic Easter eggs, Halloween webs etc…) and any shoes, toys or bikes.

Make it safe.
Try removing snow and ice from the sidewalk, driveway, walk way and steps and Tighten the stair handles. This will make it easier for everyone and avoid liability issues as well.

A splash of life.
Use flowerpots, flowerbeds, baskets, urns, etc. Anything colourful will greet your buyers and make them feel welcome before they even go inside. Avoid bushes, perennials or fruit trees, as they tend to be flowerless longer, rather invasive and even high maintenance. Annual flowers and small evergreens are your best choice. Do not over do it, keep it light and simple.

Let glass shine
How clean are your windows?. Remember! buyers will, without a doubt check the condition of your windows inside out. If the glass is not clean, they will not miss it. Weather permitting, cleaning them outside is just as important as cleaning them inside and do not forget the back windows and the entrance door’s insert!

next... OPEN HOUSE DAY !!!

I'm presently working on related material for publication in my site. Please come back for more shortly.

Victoria Mena
905.619.9500