The details of Florida real estate have many nuances. The real estate market in Central Florida is hot, and if you are thinking about or already have your home for sale in Orlando, these are the things you might want to consider if you’re planning to stage an occupied home. 

We sat down with industry expert, Eileen Schiffer to get a better sense of how to leverage staging to increase awareness for home sellers. This article is a breakdown of the things she believes could really make the difference. 

She’s sold tons of homes over her 20+ year career in Florida real estate, and I bet you can guess what she thinks just might be the difference maker, yup, it’s Home Staging!

In today’s competitive real estate market, staging an occupied home has become a critical element in attracting potential buyers and achieving a higher sale price. Housing is one of the most expensive investments most people will ever make, and if you stage it correctly you can reduce the time it takes them to make a decision, going from open house to new home purchase much faster. However, staging an occupied home can be a delicate process, as it involves working with a homeowner’s personal belongings, furniture, and taste. In this article, we will explore the unique challenges of staging an occupied home and share some expert tips on how to achieve the best return on investment.

The Occupied Home: A Different Animal, but Still a Real Estate Reality

Staging an occupied home presents a unique set of challenges compared to staging a vacant property, and Florida homes are all that more special. People aren’t just buying property when they move to Florida, often it signifies something special in their life, some achievement  or a sense of freedom. Sure – maybe it’s a premier location and a luxury home, but it’s not just a beach side mortgage property to them.

Central Florida homes are even more specific with the kind of people that want to live close to Disney and the other Central Florida attractions. Our point is it’s not just wood and walls to them. Homeowners here may be emotionally attached to their belongings and personal styles, making it difficult for them to accept changes that will appeal to a wider audience.

However, most sellers are willing to invest in home improvements that will increase the value of their property and decrease the time it spends on the market. Time, after all, is money.

Return on Investment: Top Picks for High-Impact Changes

Paint

One of the most cost-effective ways to transform an occupied home is by updating its paint colors. Dated or dark colors can make a home feel smaller and less inviting. On the other hand, fresh, modern colors can make a significant difference in the look and feel of a home. Light, neutral colors like beige, gray, and white can make the space feel brighter and more spacious. Bright or bold colors can add personality and interest to a room.

Additionally, painting can help to hide imperfections and freshen up areas that may have marks or scratches. It’s also a great way to unify a home’s style and create a cohesive design throughout the space. Overall, updating paint colors is a simple and cost-effective way to transform a home and make it feel more inviting and comfortable. It can also be a great way to add value to a home if you’re preparing to sell.  Opt for lighter, neutral hues that create a bright and airy atmosphere, which appeals to a wider range of potential buyers.

Light Fixtures

Dated light fixtures can significantly impact a home’s aesthetic appeal. Replacing them with modern, statement pieces can instantly elevate a room’s overall look. Not only do new light fixtures update the design, they also provide better lighting, making the space feel brighter and more inviting. Choosing fixtures with energy-efficient LED bulbs can also help save money on electricity bills. There are numerous options for modern light fixtures, ranging from sleek and minimalist to bold and colorful. Pendant lights, chandeliers, and wall sconces are just a few examples of statement pieces that can add interest and style to any room.

When selecting new fixtures, it’s important to consider the room’s décor and overall style. An industrial-style chandelier may not fit well in a beachy, coastal-themed living room. It’s also crucial to ensure that the size and placement of the new fixtures are appropriate for the space and will provide adequate lighting. Replacing outdated light fixtures is another relatively simple and affordable way to refresh a home’s interior design. With so many options available, homeowners can easily find modern fixtures that suit their personal style and complement the aesthetic of their home.  This relatively inexpensive change can have a substantial impact on a home’s perceived value.

Editing and Decluttering

Another essential aspect of staging an occupied home is paring down and editing its contents. By removing excess furniture, personal items, and clutter,  you can make the space feel larger, more open, and less distracting. This also allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the home, rather than feeling like they are intruding on someone else’s space. Start by decluttering and organizing each room. Remove any unnecessary or bulky furniture, as well as any personal items such as family photos or collections that may be distracting. Clear out any overflowing closets, cabinets, and storage spaces, and donate or put into storage anything that is not essential. Pay special attention to rooms like the kitchen and bathrooms, which tend to accumulate a lot of clutter and personal items. Clear off countertops and put away any appliances, towels, or toiletries that are not in use.

Finally, consider adding some strategic décor and accessories to enhance the look and feel of the space. This might include fresh flowers, artwork, or accent pillows that complement the color scheme and style of the home. By taking the time to edit and showcase the best features of the home, you can create a welcoming space that is sure to impress potential buyers. You create an open and inviting space that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there.

The Added Value of Staging your listing in Florida

While not all realtors offer staging services as part of their listing package services, some expert agents provide it as an added benefit to their clients. Whether you’re located in Winter Park, Maitland, or some other beautiful place in Central Florida, staging not only leads to a higher sale price but also makes the entire selling process easier for all parties involved.

Lake property? City Dwelling? What’s the difference between your home for sale or another Orlando property? 

Many sellers are pleasantly surprised by the impact of staging on their homes. Common reactions include “Why didn’t we do this sooner?” and expressions of amazement at the transformation. Staging can make a significant difference in how a home is perceived, even by the homeowners themselves, and can create that all-important “wow factor” for potential buyers.

Conclusion: Orlando Real Estate is truly competitive and most Central Florida counties are comparable, however staging can truly set you apart on the MLS

Staging an occupied home can be a delicate, yet rewarding process. By investing in strategic updates such as paint, light fixtures, and decluttering, sellers can significantly increase their property’s appeal and value. Working with a realtor who offers staging services can make the process even smoother, resulting in a successful sale and a satisfying experience for all parties involved.