What is Virtual Staging and Does It Work?

As a home seller in Columbia, MO's fast-paced real estate market, you're always looking for ways to stand out and capture the attention of potential buyers. Enter virtual staging, a game-changer that's transforming how homes are presented online. But what is virtual staging, and more importantly, can it truly make a difference in selling your home? In this post, we’ll explore this innovative solution and discover how it can elevate your home sale.

What Exactly is Virtual Staging?

Ever use an app where you can furnish and decorate your home at the click of a button? That's virtual staging. Using digital tools, designers can add stylish furniture, decor, and even artwork to photos of your empty spaces. This process transforms basic listings into eye-catching photos that invite potential buyers to imagine living in your home. Unlike traditional staging, virtual staging eliminates the need for physical furniture, so you’ll save time, effort, and money.

The Impact of Virtual Staging

Now, you might be wondering, "Does virtual staging really work?" Absolutely. With most homebuyers starting their search online, your listing's first impression is everything. Virtual staging not only makes your home more visually appealing but also significantly increases its online engagement. A recent StyleDod survey discovered that homes with staged photos sold for 6 to 20 percent higher than those with un-staged photos—and better yet, virtually staged homes sold 4x faster than un-staged homes did. Here’s why virtual staging is a hit:

• Attractiveness: It showcases your home’s potential, making it easier for buyers to envision themselves in the space.

• Cost-Effective: Virtual staging is much cheaper than traditional staging, so you get a great return on investment.

• Versatility: You can tailor the style and design to attract your ideal buyer to enhance your home's appeal.

Making the Most of Virtual Staging

To truly benefit from virtual staging, keep these best practices in mind:

Aim for Realism: The staging should look as real as possible to avoid turning off potential buyers.

Honesty is the Best Policy: Virtual staging should highlight your home’s strengths without hiding any flaws that buyers should be aware of.

Less is More: A cluttered space can be overwhelming. Opt for a clean, inviting design that makes buyers feel at home.

 Don't Make it Personal: While you may love a beach-house theme, that doesn't mean it's the best design for your home in Mid-Missouri. Virtual staging should be cohesive throughout, and appropriate for your home's style.

What About "Real" Staging? 

Keep in mind that traditional staging still has its (very important!) place. It's hard to beat the impactfulness of walking into a space that is professionally furnished and decorated to highlight the home's very best attributes. An experienced real estate agent will help you determine if your house is the perfect candidate for virtual staging, or if the WOW factor of a physically furnished home is called for in your price range. 

Trust the Experts 

Bev & Co. was the first in our Columbia, MO area to utilize virtual staging, and we have remained the experts. Not all agents bother with virtual staging or have the know-how to use it well. Our marketing team personally selects the furniture and accessories, right down to the floral arrangement on the kitchen table! We have the experience to know what style and color theme will be best for your home, as well as a keen understanding of what home buyers in today's market are attracted to. 

In conclusion, virtual staging is your secret weapon in the competitive real estate market. It's an innovative, cost-effective way to make your listing pop and attract more potential buyers. As you prepare to sell your home, consider how virtual staging could transform your listing from just another house for sale to a must-see property.