As Real Estate Stagers often we are faced with staging a property that has “off-brand” floor coverings like wall-to-wall carpeting, area rugs, or “outdated” wood patterns like Parquet (although with the rise in popularity of herringbone pattern, we think Parquet floor design will make a solid comeback soon), without the budget to remove, change or update it.
Since floors, walls, and ceilings are key added-value areas in preparing a property for sale, they certainly can’t be ignored or overlooked. Here are 3 ideas to help you work with what you have:
- Invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner.
As a stager that’s just starting, there will undoubtedly be a few areas of your business that you must invest in from the get-go. This is one of them (along with a good steamer and insurance!) – and it pays off big time. If the pandemic has taught business owners anything, it’s that a degree of self-sustainability is key. This way you can deliver great results for every job.
Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2
Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2
Our favorite is the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 vacuum. It’s upright, deep cleaning, and easy to carry and use. If you haven’t got the budget to hire a cleaning service, investing in a quality vacuum cleaner is the next best thing.
- Use the existing carpet or area rug as inspiration.
Any stager worth its weight in gold will be capable of integrating an existing color scheme into a tasteful color palette. The key is to be intentional. Change the wall color or add décor that celebrates rather than negates. Our go-to brand is Benjamin Moore.
The Benjamin Moore Color Portfolio Mobile app is easy to use, the paint names are inspiring and, they are one of the best color educators around! With a wide array of colors, choosing a color that appears in the area rug or is a shade of the carpet is easy to do and will create a more cohesive look and feel for the room.
- Choose furnishings that command attention.
One of the truths in Real Estate Staging is: where the eye rests, the sale begins. The creative challenge of a well-maintained but outdated flooring style is to use furnishings that mute the aesthetic of the floor while reflecting its positive characteristics. For example, this can be the natural pattern; clean lines, or low profile of Parquet flooring.
Soren Sofa by Gus* Simple Sophistication
Soren Sofa by Gus* Simple Sophistication
The furniture piece should play the role of the centerpiece on a well-set table. We’ve found post-modern furniture design achieves this seamlessly. One of our favorite brands is Gus*. Particularly the Soren Sofa, for its bold profile, geometric form, and minimalist sophistication.
Remember, working with what you have can be fun! It requires that we challenge our creative boundaries and draw inspiration from within. When done properly, you will find that you have created a unique interior space, that will stand out in the real estate market and speak directly to a specific lifestyle group.