Virtual staging... is it right for your listing?

Interesting read today in Realtor Magazine online... http://www.realtor.org/RMODaily.nsf/pages/News2009073002?OpenDocument

I personally think virtual staging can be very effective marketing tool. In fact, I wish I had it as a tool when I sold new homes many years ago. I used to use good old fashioned furniture templates and blueprints -- not nearly the wow factor of a virtual staging, but it helped. Most buyers I worked with truly couldn't visual the potential of a home (which is why the model home plans always sold out first and why new home sales people dread selling out of a trailer in a start up community.)

I agree with the author of this article that Realtors and Stagers must be careful when using virtual staging as a marketing tool so as not to look like your trying to deceive potential buyers. Here are some things that we always suggest if you use virtual staging...

1) Use before AND afters in your marketing efforts.
2) Use text on the virtually staged photo indicating it is virtually staged (eg "Imagine the possibilties..." or "Designer's rendering".)
3) Don't make structural changes or landscaping changes (or anything that would otherwise convey with the property if it were really there.)
4) Display the virtual staging photos on foam core poster board on an easel in the actual listing so that prospects can imagine the possibilities.
When we have used virtual staging, it has worked VERY well! I just think more Realtors and sellers need to understand it is a very effective marketing strategy, and an affordable alternative when the budget doesn't allow a full blown staging.

Need a listing virtually staged? E-mail or call us today! info@theinterioritycomplex.com 512-289-7177

(P.S. HOME STAGERS ONLY: If you are a home stager and you want more information on how you can add virtual staging services to your business, send us an e-mail.)