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Home staging is now widely used to make a home more attractive to potential buyers. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Realtors, a majority of real estate professionals believe staging increases the sale price of the home anywhere from 1 to 15 percent. But even if it doesn't increase the value, most agents agree that staging reduces the amount of time the home sits on the market, which is music to any seller's ears. Not all homes need a dramatic makeover, but most homes will benefit from at least a thorough cleaning and de-cluttering. Staging and preparation can include as little as some fresh paint, but in most cases, landscaping, replacing dated light fixtures, and in many cases refinishing hardwood floors and replacing countertops. Many years ago agents weren't interested, but nowadays a lot more are learning about staging and how to advise their clients, because more and more homeowners are demanding that. They will have an eye for what is needed, and it really helps the homeowner to have an educated real estate agent. They can prep the seller about what needs to be removed and cleaned out. Complete staging of vacant homes is now a current trend. Staging has now entered smaller markets, not just large metropolitan areas. Also, the popularity of HGTV has made the idea more palatable to sellers and agents across the country. Staging is now becoming a bit more personal. It used to be standard to remove family photos and personal items from the house. But some of today's buyers prefer to see a "real" house that they can imagine themselves in and small personal details create a personal image that can reach buyers on an emotional level. Many trends in staging are now emerging. Color – Gray is dead – people are embracing beige and creamy white again. This is actually good because not everyone's furniture fits with gray. Professional stagers often add a pop of color or an upscale design element to appeal to design-conscious buyers. Floors – It used to be that preparing a home for sale meant replacing old stained carpet with new carpet, but that trend is changing. A lot of people are replacing carpeting with wood and faux wood flooring. Countertops – Nowadays with a majority of Americans, quartz or granite counters are the current trend. Please consult your Realtor for any staging ideas when it becomes the time to sell your home. Source: National Association of Realtors www.nar.realtor.org Styled, Staged Sold By Glenn and Nona Bradd, Realtors and Residents | LIFE IN SOLERA | JUNE 2022 | 11 y