By Maria Stokes
So, you’ve just wrapped up construction on a shiny new build. It’s a beauty, with that fresh paint smell and the satisfaction of everything being brand new. But here’s the thing: empty rooms can leave even the most imaginative buyers scratching their heads, wondering how their couch or dining table would fit.
That’s where staging steps in, waving its magic wand to transform empty spaces into homes brimming with potential.
Let’s dive into why staging is essential for new builds and how you, as a developer, can make the most of it.
First Impressions Last
The first impression a buyer gets is crucial, and a thoughtfully staged home can immediately captivate them. Even in a pristine new build, blank walls and empty rooms can feel cold and uninspiring. Staging brings warmth and character, transforming empty rooms into inviting spaces that buyers can imagine themselves living in. That’s why the big developers like Taylor Wimpey, Persimmon and Barratt Homes all have show homes on their new developments. It’s all about creating a vision that speaks to the heart.
The Flaw Factor
While new builds often come without the flaws of older homes, staging still plays a vital role. It’s not about hiding imperfections (since there aren’t any!) but about showcasing the potential of each room. Staging highlights the best features of the space, whether it’s a cosy reading nook in the corner or a kitchen island that just begs for family breakfasts. It draws attention to the positives, ensuring nothing goes unnoticed.
Gauging Room Size
One of the trickiest parts of viewing an empty property is understanding the true size of the rooms. Empty spaces can look deceptively smaller or larger than they actually are. By carefully placing furniture and accessories, staging gives buyers a clear sense of scale. It helps them visualise where their sofa, bed, or dining table would fit, making the space feel more realistic and tangible.
Creating a Show Home
If you have several properties to sell on a development, staging one as a show home is a brilliant strategy. A well-staged show home acts as the benchmark for the entire development, allowing buyers to see the potential of all the properties. It helps them picture what their own home could look like and creates an emotional connection that’s hard to achieve with empty rooms alone. This connection can be the push they need to make an offer.
Evoking Emotion
People buy homes based on how they feel about them. It’s not just about ticking boxes but also about falling in love with the space. Staging brings in the ‘homey’ factor, making spaces feel comfortable and inviting. It’s those little touches, like a plush throw over the sofa or fresh flowers on the kitchen worktop, that evoke warmth and help buyers picture themselves living there.
Highlighting Functionality
Every room has a purpose, and staging helps to define that purpose clearly. Whether it’s turning a nook into a home office or setting up a cosy breakfast bar, staging shows buyers how each space can be used effectively. This is particularly important in new builds with open-concept layouts, where defining different areas can help buyers visualise the full potential of the space.
Speeding Up Sales
Staged homes sell faster than non-staged ones and can influence the final selling price of your property. When buyers can see a home’s potential and feel a connection to it, they’re more likely to make a quick decision. This is crucial for developers looking to move inventory quickly and efficiently. The faster you can sell your properties, the sooner you can focus on your next project.
The Power of Photography
In today’s digital world, the first viewing often happens online. Staged homes photograph beautifully, which is a huge advantage for online listings. Professionally staged homes have that magazine-worthy quality that grabs attention and draws buyers in for a closer look. Great photos mean more interest, and more interest means more showings.
Tailoring to Your Audience
It’s crucial to know your target audience and stage the home accordingly. Young professionals will appreciate modern, minimalist decor, while families may gravitate towards practical setups that highlight space and storage. Tailoring your staging to the demographics you’re trying to reach can make a big difference in how buyers perceive the property.
Cost vs. Value
Some developers might hesitate to invest in staging, seeing it as an unnecessary expense. But the value it brings can far outweigh the costs. A well-staged home can sell for a higher price, often more than covering the staging costs. Plus, it can help sell properties faster – especially if you have a small development with several properties, reducing carrying costs and freeing up your capital for other projects.
Conclusion
Staging isn’t just for homes with something to hide; it’s a powerful tool that helps buyers connect with a property on an emotional level. For new builds, staging is about helping buyers see the potential of a blank slate and making it easier for them to picture their lives in the space. From speeding up sales to creating a memorable show home, staging is a no-brainer for developers looking to make a splash in the market.
So, embrace the art of staging, and turn your new builds into homes that buyers can’t resist.
For a free consultation with one of our friendly and experienced home stylists contact us today!
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