Selling An Empty Home vs. A Staged One
Dear Phyllis,
Thank you for your column, which I always look forward to reading. I will be relocating my mom from Valencia and am wondering if it’s better to sell her house empty, or whether I should have her home staged or just work with some of the furniture my mom won’t be bringing with her? Diana
Dear Diana,
I am not familiar with the real estate market in Valencia. Therefore, I recommend speaking with a Realtor who specializes in that area.
However, to answer your question, in our local real estate market in Glendale, La Canada, La Crescenta, and Pasadena, not every home needs staging. Even so, staging helps buyers picture themselves living in the home.
In some cases, staging is essential. For example, it works especially well when a floor plan feels confusing or when rooms are small. Staging a small bedroom can make it feel larger and more functional. Without furniture, buyers often wonder whether their belongings will fit. However, a well-staged room usually answers that concern.
Selling a vacant home presents a different challenge. Last year, I listed two empty homes that had previously sat on the market with other agents. After I was hired, I recommended staging several key rooms. As a result, both homes sold quickly and for more than their previous asking prices.
Most buyers decide how they feel about a home within minutes of walking through the front door. Because of this, first impressions matter. Depending on the furniture your mother plans to leave behind and its condition, creating attractive vignettes throughout the home may be the most cost-effective solution.
Again, I recommend that you consult with a Realtor who sells homes in Valencia, so that they can view your mother’s home and her remaining furniture in person. Then your question can be more precisely answered. Best of luck to you in the relocation of your mother.
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