It's a proven fact that many people could have sold their homes for much more money than they did and in a shorter time period, if they had only "merchandised" or "Staged" their home properly for sale.

Home Staging is a great marketing tool that can be used to set your house apart from your competition. It is also a value added service that can make a huge difference in how quickly your house sells versus other listings on the market. The statistics we track at Fresh Approach prove that home Staging helps listings sell faster than un-staged comparable listings, which translates into dollars you will keep because time is money. You are less likely to experience a price reduction when your house is properly Staged.

Staging is the process of depersonalizing a house to make it widely appealing so that every buyer who walks through the door can see themselves living there. It is about highlighting the features of the house and minimizing potential distractions. In a sluggish market Staged Homes will sell faster and in some cases for between 5% and 15% more in a hotter market.

Realtors have, for years, advised sellers on various techniques to help "sell their house" and make prospective buyers feel more comfortable and welcomed. Preparing a house for sale goes far beyond such obvious tips like picking up clutter, hiding dirty dishes and burning scented candles that smell like apple pie!

You need to make the architectural features of your home prominent and show the lifestyle that this property has to offer the buyer. Buyers don't need to be "sold" on your personal belongings and decorating choices.

"The way you live in your home, and the way we need to market and sell your house, are two very different things."

Depending on what is required, you might Stage a home by simply rearranging the existing furniture and accessories to showcase the house, removing the clutter and minimizing your personal items. Or there may be a requirement to empty the house and fill it with rented furniture. Some homes may need new linens, some accessories or where necessary, landscaping or re-painting.

Whatever amount of merchandising is done to prepare your home for sale, it will help you realize the most profit on your property.