COVID-19 CHANGED LIFE FOR EVERYONE IN 2020.
For us home stagers, we noticed that the pandemic changed the home selling process in a variety of ways, including the ways buyers respond to the homes they view. 2020 home buyers looked for different features that kept pace with our new pandemic world.
People socially distanced by staying home and working from home. Children stayed home for schooling. These new ways of doing things affected what 2020 home buyers need and want. Many buyers realized the need for additional space to meet these changing needs.
With the new vaccine rollout, buyers’ needs will change again. However, we expect 2020’s changes will become a long-term shift for people. Many have found their values and priorities changed as they experienced a new way of living. Some will continue to work from home, commuting less and spending more time at home with family and friends.
Stagers must be in tune with the shifting market, what current buyers are looking for, and what inspires them to make a purchase. In 2020 and now into 2021, staging has become more important than ever as buyers shop almost exclusively online and depend on staging to define the use of each room. Staging also helps them get a sense of what it would look and feel like to live in a home.
THESE STAGING PRACTICES HELPED 2020 HOME BUYERS CONNECT TO LISTINGS IN 2020, AND THEY’LL CONTINUE TO HELP AS WE MOVE FORWARD THROUGH 2021.
1. DESIGNATED OFFICE SPACE
In years past, staging a designated office space became less important. Commuters wanted to leave work at work. Now, staging an office has become a must and we expect it will remain so this year.
2. NATURAL COLORS AND MATERIALS
With so much uncertainty both in our world and in our city, people are searching for a safe haven. Buyers are responding to more warmth, including woven textures, soothing and uplifting colors, natural materials such as wood tables and a sense of order and calm.
3. SCHOOLING AREAS FOR KIDS
These days, most kids are distance learning. A dedicated space increases focus and learning capacity. We’ve found that staged children’s work areas were a plus for on-line schooling or for homework — another trend that will continue for the foreseeable future.
4. PLAY AREAS
Play areas became another selling point for those with children as they were spending more time playing inside at home. Room to stretch, explore, and grow creativity helps everyone in the home!
5. BONUS ROOMS
When you’re home all day with family, sometimes the walls can feel like they’re closing in on you. 2020 home buyers showed us that having some extra space for home and family entertainment in a bonus room is an important feature.
6. OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
Outdoor spaces were a great way to invite neighbors and friends over while social distancing in 2020. This will continue into the spring and summer as more and more people will venture out once they have their vaccinations. There’s a lot to catch up on with those we love!
7. DEDICATED EXERCISE SPACE
With so many gyms closed, home gyms were another big focus in 2020. Since stagers don’t stage with exercise equipment, we’ve found that staging an area with yoga mats and towels communicates the same intent.
8. PRIVATE SPACE FOR RELAXATION
A quiet respite away from the rest of the household is always a plus, and buyers like seeing a dedicated space to get some wind down and relax. Setting up comfortable chairs in the bedroom helps them envision a place all to themselves.
9. FAMILY DINING
Family dinner has become a highlight for many in this season. Staging a warm, welcoming scene with a table setting connects the buyer to thoughts of family gathering’s and adds an intimate touch.
Home staging continues to be the proven method of connecting buyers to a listed home, no matter what the current market trends. It communicates that the seller is confidant in the value of their home. Staging reduces the time a listing spends on the market and can significantly increase the selling price by bringing in multiple offers.
Make sure your listing stands out by using a professional home stager to help your potential buyers interpret the very best qualities of your home.