Home Staging Can Change Lives

A slightly different post this week but the message resonated with me so I am sharing it with you.

Reaching back to an earlier post about being retired while your spouse / partner still works I was inspired to write about some experiences my wife has had as a home stager - http://www.ready-set-stage.com

When explaining to someone what home staging is, the focus is on the physical process of making the home attractive to prospective buyers. Creating an environment in which they can envision themselves to increase the selling power of the home. That’s the nuts and bolts of staging, whether it is taking a vacant property and filling the rooms with furniture to transform it into a home or working with sellers still in their homes to best showcase their property.

That’s often only part of the story. In speaking with my wife about the stagings she’s done, the human dynamic comes into play quite a bit. Putting people at ease is something that comes naturally to her, and she was a bit surprised when I mentioned how she has not only helped clients sell their homes, but also changed their lives. Often clients are selling due to the loss of a spouse or other family member, job loss/change, or as the result of a divorce. And even when that is not the case, there can be past tragedies like the loss of a child. The home has photos and mementos throughout, something that can distract prospective buyers.

By approaching clients with empathy, and tactfully helping them to understand the need to remove those sentimental objects – photos, artwork, clothing, etc. (remember the Cleaning Your Closets post?) the environment is transformed so buyers can see themselves in the home. All while acknowledging the client’s feelings and without diminishing the deep meaning the items have.

Many clients in these tough situations have been amazed at the transformation they’ve felt. They’ve been held back and this process helped them to move on from pain of the past. The physical act of showcasing their home helps them to transform their lives and to see the possibilities of the future. The past is not forgotten or diminished, but it’s hold is broken. The family can look forward to their new home and the promise of a brighter future.

You may be rolling your eyes and thinking that I am being overly dramatic, but I assure you that based on conversations we have had, through her approach to home staging and the process itself, my wife has helped several clients to get past the pain and make a fresh start. My message to you is no matter what you do, never underestimate the impact you can have on others. Your words and actions matter and can make a big difference in other people’s lives. So go with care, and bring positivity to someone today.