Lighting is one of the most transformative elements in interior design, shaping the mood, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of any space. For Auckland homeowners, where natural beauty and modern living converge, thoughtful lighting can elevate homes to reflect both style and practicality. From harnessing natural light to selecting the right fixtures, lighting plays a pivotal role in creating inviting and efficient spaces. In this blog, we’ll explore how lighting impacts interior design, offering practical tips and insights tailored to Auckland homes, with a focus on ambiance, task lighting, and energy efficiency.
Lighting is more than just a practical necessity; it’s a design tool that influences how a space feels and functions. In Auckland, where homes often blend indoor and outdoor living, lighting can enhance this connection. It affects everything from the perception of space to the emotional atmosphere. Poorly lit rooms can feel cramped or unwelcoming, while well-designed lighting can make spaces feel larger, warmer, and more cohesive.
Lighting serves three primary purposes in interior design:
By balancing these layers, homeowners can create spaces that are both functional and visually stunning. For expert guidance on optimizing your home’s design, explore The Look Interior Design in Auckland.
Auckland’s temperate climate and stunning landscapes make natural light a key asset in home design. Large windows, skylights, and glass doors can flood interiors with sunlight, creating a sense of openness. However, managing natural light effectively requires careful planning.
Maximizing Natural Light
Controlling Glare
Auckland’s bright sunlight can sometimes cause glare. To mitigate this, consider UV-protective window films or adjustable blinds. These solutions maintain the benefits of natural light while reducing harshness, ensuring your home remains comfortable and stylish.
Selecting the right fixtures is critical to achieving your desired aesthetic and functionality. Auckland’s diverse architectural styles, from modern villas to coastal bungalows, demand versatile lighting solutions.
Types of Lighting Fixtures
When choosing fixtures, consider the room’s purpose and style. For example, a sleek pendant light suits a modern kitchen, while a rustic floor lamp complements a cozy lounge. Browse The Look’s lighting collections for curated options that blend style and function.
Bulb Types and Colour Temperature
The type of bulb you choose affects both ambiance and energy efficiency. LED bulbs are a popular choice in Auckland due to their longevity and low energy consumption. Pay attention to color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K):
Creating Ambiance with Lighting
Ambiance is where lighting truly shines as a design element. In Auckland homes, where indoor-outdoor flow is prized, lighting can enhance the connection to nature while creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Layering Light for Depth
To achieve a balanced ambiance, layer ambient, task, and accent lighting. For example:
Dimmers are a must-have for flexibility, allowing you to adjust lighting based on the time of day or occasion. Smart lighting systems, which can be controlled via apps or voice assistants, are gaining popularity in Auckland for their convenience and energy-saving potential.
Highlighting Architectural Features
Accent lighting can draw attention to unique elements in your home, such as exposed beams, textured walls, or lush indoor plants. For instance, track lighting can illuminate a gallery wall, while LED strips can highlight a staircase. These touches add sophistication and personality to your space.
Task lighting ensures that specific activities, like cooking, reading, or working, are well-supported. In Auckland’s busy households, where kitchens and home offices are hubs of activity, effective task lighting is essential.
Kitchen Lighting
Kitchens require bright, focused light for food preparation. Under-cabinet LED strips or recessed lights work well for countertops, while pendant lights over an island add style and function. Ensure fixtures are positioned to avoid shadows while working.
Home Office Lighting
With remote work on the rise, a well-lit home office is crucial. Position desk lamps to reduce glare on screens, and use cool white bulbs to boost focus and productivity. For a range of office lighting solutions, contact The Look workspace design page.
Bathroom Lighting
Vanity lighting should be even and flattering. Wall sconces on either side of a mirror provide shadow-free illumination for grooming tasks. Opt for moisture-resistant fixtures to suit Auckland’s humid climate.
Sustainability is a growing priority for Auckland homeowners, and lighting plays a significant role in reducing energy consumption. Energy-efficient lighting not only lowers utility bills but also aligns with New Zealand’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
LED Lighting
LEDs are the gold standard for energy efficiency, using up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. They’re versatile, available in various styles, and have a lifespan of up to 25,000 hours. Incorporating LEDs into your home design is a smart choice for both aesthetics and sustainability.
Smart Lighting Systems
Smart bulbs and systems allow you to control lighting remotely, set schedules, and monitor energy usage. In Auckland, where electricity costs can be high, these systems offer significant savings. Explore The Look smart home solutions for cutting-edge options.
Quality Outdoor Lighting: Setting the Right Mood
Well-planned outdoor lighting can completely transform how buyers experience your home. From welcoming pathways to softly lit entertaining areas, quality lighting creates warmth, enhances safety, and highlights your home’s best features, making it more inviting both day and night.
Auckland’s interior design scene is a blend of contemporary elegance and coastal charm. Lighting can accentuate this aesthetic by highlighting natural materials like timber and stone or complementing neutral color palettes. For example:
Collaborating with a professional designer can help you tailor lighting to your home’s unique style. The Look design consultation services can guide you in creating a cohesive and stunning look.
1. How does natural light impact interior design in Auckland homes?
Natural light enhances the sense of space and connects interiors with Auckland’s beautiful outdoors. It can be maximized with large windows, skylights, and reflective surfaces, but glare control is essential for comfort.
2. What are the best lighting fixtures for small spaces?
Recessed lighting and wall sconces are ideal for small spaces as they save floor space and provide ample illumination. Mirrors can also amplify light in compact areas.
3. How can I make my home more energy-efficient with lighting?
Switch to LED bulbs, install dimmers, and consider smart lighting systems to reduce energy consumption. Solar-powered lights are great for outdoor areas.
4. What’s the difference between warm and cool lighting?
Warm lighting (2700K–3000K) creates a cozy, inviting ambiance, while cool lighting (3500K–4100K) is crisp and energizing, suitable for task-oriented spaces like kitchens or offices.
5. How do I choose lighting for outdoor areas in Auckland?
Choose durable, weather-resistant fixtures designed for Auckland’s conditions. Focus on quality outdoor lighting that enhances both safety and atmosphere, such as pathway lights for easy navigation and warm ambient lighting to highlight entertaining areas. The right choices not only improve functionality but also create a welcoming mood that adds real appeal to your home.
6. Can lighting improve the resale value of my home?
Yes, well-designed lighting enhances aesthetics and functionality, making your home more appealing to buyers. Smart lighting and energy-efficient solutions are particularly attractive.
7. How do I balance lighting in open-plan Auckland homes?
Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to define zones within open-plan spaces. Dimmers and smart controls offer flexibility for different activities and moods.
Lighting is a powerful tool in interior design, shaping the way Auckland homeowners experience their spaces. By thoughtfully integrating natural light, selecting the right fixtures, and prioritising energy efficiency, you can create a home that’s both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re revamping a cozy villa or a modern apartment, lighting can transform your space into a reflection of your style and lifestyle. For personalised advice and high-quality lighting solutions, visit The Look to bring your vision to life.
When selling your home in Auckland, first impressions aren’t just important, they’re everything. Whether your listing goes live in the warmth of summer or the chill of winter, tailoring your staging to match the season can dramatically influence how buyers perceive your property. Seasonal home staging isn’t just about décor; it’s about capturing the emotional state of buyers at a given time of year, aligning your home with their seasonal lifestyle, and making it irresistible.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to adapt your home staging for Auckland’s distinct seasons. You’ll find practical, season-specific tips to help you sell faster and potentially secure a better sale price, along with insights from the experts at The Look.
Auckland’s real estate market is active all year. However, buyer expectations can vary depending on the weather and seasonal activities. In summer, open-plan living and outdoor spaces are highly appealing. In winter, buyers want warmth and comfort. Understanding these seasonal shifts allows you to showcase your property’s strengths and create an atmosphere that resonates.
Seasonal staging helps you:
If you’re aiming for maximum buyer appeal, get in touch with The Look, Auckland's home staging experts. They understand Auckland’s buyer trends and have the furniture, furnishings and expertise to style your home for any season.
Spring in Auckland is a season of renewal, and your home should reflect that energy. Buyers often emerge from winter ready to make changes, and a bright, fresh home can be the perfect invitation. With spring being the busiest season for property listings, standing out from the crowd is essential to attract the right attention.
Focus on opening up your space and letting in natural light. Clean all windows thoroughly, pull back curtains, and use mirrors to reflect sunshine. Incorporate fresh flowers such as tulips, freesias, or daffodils in living areas and entryways. Swap out heavy fabrics for lighter, breathable materials in cushions, throws, and bedding.
Decluttering is especially powerful in spring. A deep clean and organised storage areas can make your home feel more spacious. Outdoors, tidy gardens, mow lawns, and add colourful potted plants. A fresh, neutral interior paired with seasonal floral accents can make buyers instantly feel at home.
For cohesive spring styling, The Look interior design services can help you select colour palettes and accessories that create a bright, inviting look.
Auckland summers are perfect for celebrating indoor-outdoor living. To make the most of the season, ensure your staging highlights these features.
Start with your outdoor spaces. Style decks or patios with outdoor dining settings and scatter cushions in vibrant, summery colours. Use subtle lighting such as lanterns or fairy lights to suggest evening entertaining.
Inside, keep the look airy and relaxed. Use sheer curtains to filter light while maintaining privacy. Opt for coastal-inspired décor with soft blues, sandy neutrals, and natural textures like rattan and jute. Bowls of fresh seasonal fruit on kitchen counters can add a touch of summer vibrancy.
Buyers viewing in summer often imagine themselves hosting gatherings, so arrange furniture to encourage conversation and flow between spaces. Keep the home cool during open homes to make the viewing experience comfortable.
Autumn in Auckland calls for a subtle shift towards coziness without fully embracing winter heaviness. As days shorten and evenings cool, buyers start seeking warmth and comfort.
Layer textures to create depth in your rooms. Add throws and cushions in inviting, elegant textures, choosing warm tones such as rust or mustard. Swap lightweight rugs for thicker, textured ones that make floors more inviting.
The entryway becomes particularly important in autumn. A welcoming mat, seasonal potted plants, and warm-toned lighting can make the perfect first impression. Inside, use table lamps and floor lamps to balance the dimmer natural light of the season.
Highlight practical features that appeal in cooler months, such as insulation or heating systems, while still keeping spaces open and uncluttered. This balance ensures your home feels inviting without appearing overly seasonal.
Winter buyers are often more motivated but also more critical, as poor lighting and cold interiors can make homes feel less appealing. In Auckland’s cooler months, your focus should be on warmth, lighting, and comfort.
Keep the home well-heated during viewings — not overly warm, but comfortable enough for buyers to linger. Introduce layered lighting with overhead fixtures, table lamps, and accent lights to avoid dark corners. Choose warm-toned bulbs for a golden, welcoming glow.
Heavy curtains can help insulate rooms while adding a sense of luxury. In living areas and bedrooms, place thick rugs underfoot. Seasonal scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or sandalwood can subtly enhance the cozy atmosphere.
If you have a fireplace, make it a feature and have it burning for open homes. Even a decorative arrangement of candles or neatly stacked wood can draw buyers in. Above all, make sure your home feels like a comfortable retreat from the cold outside.
While seasonal tweaks make a difference, certain principles hold true year-round. Neutral colour schemes provide a timeless backdrop, allowing seasonal décor to stand out without overwhelming buyers. Keeping spaces clutter-free maximises the sense of space, and maintaining cleanliness ensures buyers focus on your home’s features rather than distractions.
Pay attention to small details, such as polished hardware, repaired paint chips, and spotless surfaces. These touches might seem minor, but they contribute to the overall perception of quality.
If you’re unsure where to start, The Look home staging professionals can guide you in creating a flexible staging plan that works across all seasons, ensuring your home is market-ready any time of year.
Seasonal home staging in Auckland is about more than swapping cushions or adding a vase of flowers — it’s about creating a connection between your home and the lifestyle buyers envision for themselves at that time of year. By adapting your staging to the seasons, you can highlight your home’s best features, address seasonal challenges, and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Whether it’s the freshness of spring, the relaxed lifestyle of summer, the cozy comfort of winter, or the transitional warmth of autumn, each season provides a unique opportunity to present your property in its best light. For a polished, professional touch that works year-round, partnering with The Look ensures your home is always ready to impress — whatever the season.
Q1: Why should I change my staging depending on the season?
Because buyer expectations and lifestyles shift with the seasons, aligning your staging with these changes helps your home feel more relevant and appealing.
Q2: Does seasonal staging cost more?
It doesn’t have to. Many seasonal adjustments involve swapping out décor, plants, and soft furnishings rather than making large investments.
Q3: What’s the best season to sell in Auckland?
Spring and summer typically see higher activity, but with the right staging, homes sell successfully in all seasons. Remember, fewer listings in the off-seasons means buyers have fewer choices.
Q4: How do I make my home feel warmer in winter?
Layer soft furnishings, use warm lighting, and ensure consistent heating during viewings.
Q5: Should I also stage my outdoor spaces in winter?
Yes. Even in colder months, buyers appreciate seeing outdoor areas that are functional and inviting year-round.
Q6: Can professional staging help me sell faster?
Yes. Professionally staged homes often attract more interest, leading to quicker sales and better offers.
In Auckland’s competitive property market, making a memorable first impression is essential. Home staging does more than make a property look attractive, it speaks directly to a buyer’s emotions and subconscious decision-making. From the moment someone walks through the front door (or scrolls through photos online), they're deciding whether this house feels like home.
In this article, we explore the psychology behind home staging, how it influences buyers, and why it's critical in Auckland’s fast-moving real estate market.
Auckland’s property market is diverse, dynamic, and increasingly visual. Buyers often shortlist properties based on online photos before they ever step inside. That’s why staging is crucial, it helps your listing stand out and makes it easier for buyers to say yes.
A staged home also minimises time on the market, reduces price negotiations, and increases emotional appeal.
Buyers are rarely just looking for a building, they're looking for a lifestyle and a feeling. Home staging taps into the psychology of what makes a space feel welcoming, aspirational, and emotionally appealing.
Psychological studies show that people form opinions in 7 seconds or less. That means your home needs to make a strong visual and emotional impact immediately—at the front door or even before, in the online listing.
Home buying isn’t purely rational. Buyers are driven by how a home makes them feel. A staged home helps them visualise themselves living there – hosting dinners, relaxing after work, or raising a family.
If a buyer falls in love emotionally, they’re more likely to overlook small flaws and move quickly to make an offer.
Cluttered, empty, or oddly arranged homes can confuse buyers. Staging defines spaces clearly, simplifies layout, and creates a calm atmosphere. It helps the buyer mentally move in without needing to use imagination or guess room purposes.
Home staging is more than decoration, it’s a sales strategy. Here are the biggest benefits for Auckland sellers:
Staged homes sell up to 2x faster and often for 5–10% more than unstaged homes. In Auckland, where property prices are high, that could mean tens of thousands in added value.
Over 90% of buyers start their property search online. Beautifully staged rooms capture attention in listing photos, getting more views, shares, and inquiries.
Buyers often raise questions like, “Why is this room empty?” or “What is this space for?” Staging answers those questions before they’re asked, by guiding the buyer’s experience.
Staging uses neutral colours and timeless design elements to appeal to as many buyers as possible, regardless of their personal style.
In a multicultural and trend-driven city like Auckland, staging can be tailored to reflect a broad, modern aesthetic that aligns with the local market.
Your buyer isn’t just looking for square metres, they want comfort, connection, and future memories. Staging helps your home tell a story.
With so many listings to compare, buyers can get overwhelmed. A clean, styled home cuts through the clutter, becoming easier to remember and prefer.
The best staging walks the line between neutral and stylish, inviting, but not too personal. This helps buyers imagine their belongings in the space.
| Staging Element | What It Communicates to Buyers |
| Neutral wall colours | Calm, clean, and move-in ready |
| Stylish but simple decor | Modern, aspirational lifestyle |
| Proper room layout | Functionality and smart use of space |
| Fresh plants or flowers | Care, warmth, and vibrancy |
| Decluttered spaces | Spaciousness and order |
Q1: Is home staging really worth the cost?
Yes. The return on investment is often significant. In Auckland, staging helps homes sell faster and for a higher price, covering the staging cost many times over.
Q2: Can I stage my home myself?
You can make small improvements, but a professional stager understands design, lighting, furniture placement, and buyer psychology in ways that produce top-tier results.
Q3: How long does staging take?
Most homes can be staged in a day.. Larger homes or custom requirements may take slightly longer, but the payoff is worth the short time investment.
Q4: Will staging help a smaller or older home?
Absolutely. In fact, staging adds the most value to smaller or less updated homes by showcasing how space can be used effectively and stylishly.
Home staging is a powerful tool grounded in psychology. It’s not about tricking buyers, it’s about helping them see the potential of your home. In Auckland’s high-stakes property environment, that first impression can be the difference between a quick sale and months on the market.
Whether you’re a homeowner preparing to sell or a real estate agent seeking to elevate your listings, professional home staging can be your competitive edge.
Contact The Look today to find out how our expert Auckland home staging services can help transform your property into one that buyers won’t forget.
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Selling a home in Auckland’s competitive property market means every detail matters. One of the most powerful ways to attract buyers and boost your sale price is effective home staging. However, even well-intentioned sellers can make mistakes that reduce a property’s appeal or turn buyers away.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top 10 home staging mistakes to avoid helping you maximise your home’s impact and appeal. Whether you’re a homeowner preparing to sell or a real estate agent advising clients, knowing these pitfalls can make all the difference.
A cluttered space overwhelms buyers and makes rooms appear smaller and less functional. Decluttering is crucial to give the impression of spaciousness and allow buyers to imagine their belongings in the home.
Make sure to clear countertops, closets, and floors. Remove personal items and excess décor to create clean, open spaces.
Buyers want to envision themselves living in the home, not feel like they’re intruding on someone else’s life. Depersonalizing means removing family photos, personal collections, and unique items that can distract or alienate.
Neutral décor helps create a blank canvas for buyers to project their own story.
Wrong furniture placement can block traffic flow, make rooms look smaller, or highlight awkward spaces. Arrange furniture to maximize space, create conversation areas, and show how each room can be used.
Avoid overcrowding rooms and remove bulky pieces that don’t fit the scale. Remember, the rooms need to flow and work with groups of people during open homes, as well as interested buyers viewing privately.
Dark or poorly lit homes feel uninviting and smaller. Ensure every room has ample, layered lighting, a mix of natural light, overhead fixtures, and lamps to create warmth and highlight features.
Replace dim or burnt-out bulbs, clean windows, and pull back curtains during showings.
First impressions start at the front door. Neglecting the exterior, like overgrown gardens, peeling paint, or cluttered porches can turn buyers off before they even step inside.
Invest in simple landscaping, a fresh coat of paint, and a tidy entrance to welcome visitors.
While staging adds appeal, too much décor or overly styled rooms can overwhelm buyers or make spaces feel less functional.
Keep décor simple, stylish, and neutral, focusing on enhancing the home’s best features without overshadowing them.
Small issues like cracked tiles, squeaky doors, or chipped paint can raise red flags. Buyers often assume minor problems indicate larger maintenance issues.
Fix or professionally repair defects to create a well-maintained and move-in ready impression.
Unpleasant or overpowering smells, like heavy perfumes, pet odors, or cooking smells can be off-putting.
Aim for a clean, fresh scent. Consider natural air fresheners or opening windows for ventilation.
Bathrooms and kitchens are key selling points. Leaving them outdated, cluttered, or dirty can reduce buyer interest.
Stage these rooms by clearing countertops, adding fresh towels or plants, and ensuring sparkling cleanliness.
Every home has standout features, whether it’s a fireplace, built-in shelving, or large windows. Failing to showcase these can make the home forgettable.
Use staging to draw attention to unique selling points, making them focal points buyers remember.
Q1: How much does professional home staging cost in Auckland?
Costs vary but typically range from $3000 to $5,000 depending on property size and service level. Consider it an investment to boost sale price and reduce time on market.
Q2: Can I stage my home myself?
Yes, many staging steps like decluttering, cleaning, and rearranging furniture can be DIY. But professionals bring expertise that can significantly improve results.
Q3: How long should I stage my home for?
Stage for as long as your home is on the market. You can hire staging companies that provide flexible terms for months or just weeks.
Q4: Does staging work for empty homes?
Absolutely. Empty homes benefit greatly from staging as it helps buyers understand room sizes and visualize living spaces.
Q5: What if my budget for staging is limited?
Focus on decluttering, deep cleaning, good lighting, and minor repairs. These low-cost improvements can still make a big impact.
Avoiding common home staging mistakes is key to making your Auckland property stand out. From decluttering and depersonalizing to proper lighting and furniture arrangement, every detail shapes buyer perception and influences offers.
By steering clear of these pitfalls, you’ll create a welcoming, aspirational environment that helps buyers connect emotionally and act quickly. Whether DIY or with professional help, effective staging is your best tool for a faster, more profitable sale.
For expert assistance, visit The Look — Auckland’s trusted home staging specialists.
In New Zealand’s competitive property market, visual impact and emotional appeal are everything. With buyers browsing online listings before ever stepping inside a property, presentation has never been more critical. That’s where home staging plays a transformative role.
For real estate agents, understanding the relationship between home staging and property sales is essential; not just as a value-added service but as a core strategy to enhance buyer interest, improve perceived value, and reduce time on market. In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into how strategic home staging contributes to market readiness, boosts buyer attraction, and shortens sale timelines; offering practical, data-backed insights for New Zealand agents.
What Is Home Staging?
Home staging is the process of preparing a property for sale by arranging furniture, décor, and lighting to highlight the home’s strengths and appeal to the widest audience. It creates a welcoming, aspirational environment that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.
Companies like The Look offer professional home staging services across New Zealand, helping agents and homeowners transform spaces into highly marketable listings.
The Value of Market Readiness
Market readiness is a critical metric in the property sales journey. It reflects how prepared a home is to meet buyer expectations immediately upon hitting the market.
Benefits of Home Staging for Market Readiness:
In New Zealand’s urban centres like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, where the market is fast-paced and buyer expectations are high, staging often makes the difference between sitting on the market and selling fast.
“Staging helps buyers emotionally connect with a home and see its full potential. That connection is often what turns a showing into a sale.” — The Look, NZ
Buyer Attraction: First Impressions Count
Your listing gets one chance to make a first impression, and that impression is made online. According to a 2022 NZ real estate insights report, over 93% of buyers begin their property search online, often using photos to decide whether a viewing is worthwhile.
How Home Staging Boosts Buyer Engagement:
Professional staging not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also influences buyer psychology. It allows prospects to visualize a lifestyle rather than just a floor plan.
Home Staging and Sale Timelines: Real Results
One of the most compelling arguments for staging is its proven impact on reducing time on market.
Before and After: Sale Timeline Comparison
| Property Type | Days on Market (Unstaged) | Days on Market (Staged) |
|---|---|---|
| Inner-city Apartment | 45 | 28 |
| Suburban Family Home | 60 | 35 |
| Executive Home | 90 | 60 |
Source: Aggregated data from The Look & local agents, 2023
A well-staged property doesn’t just sell faster, it often sells for more. Real estate agents across New Zealand report that staged homes attract better offers and fewer buyer objections during negotiations.
Why Staging Matters More in a Cooling Market
As the New Zealand housing market transitions into a more balanced or even buyer-driven phase (particularly in regions like Hamilton and Dunedin), standing out is no longer optional. Home staging becomes a powerful differentiator, helping listings shine even when inventory increases and competition tightens.
When buyers have more choices, emotional appeal becomes a deciding factor. And staging is the most cost-effective way to elevate perceived value.
Practical Strategies for Real Estate Agents
1. Partner with a Trusted Home Staging Company
Work with proven professionals like The Look who understand design trends, buyer psychology, and the local market.
2. Build Staging into Your Marketing Plan
Instead of treating staging as an add-on, present it as a standard part of your listing package. This positions you as a proactive, full-service agent.
3. Educate Homeowners on ROI
Many sellers are hesitant to invest in staging. Explain that the average return on investment for staging in NZ is around 5-10x the initial cost, especially in mid- to high-end homes.
4. Use Before/After Case Studies
Demonstrate staging success with real-life examples from previous listings. These visuals speak louder than words.
Common Misconceptions About Staging
Some clients and even agents believe:
Truth: Every property benefits from staging. Even modest homes can appear larger, brighter, and more welcoming with thoughtful staging. The goal is not decoration, it’s transformation.
Conclusion: Why It Pays to Stage
The evidence is clear: home staging accelerates property sales in New Zealand. It boosts your listing’s market readiness, attracts more qualified buyers, and reduces time on market often leading to better offers.
For real estate agents, incorporating staging as a best practice will not only enhance client satisfaction but also elevate your brand in a competitive market.
By leveraging the power of professional staging through experts like The Look, you position your listings to perform at their peak potential, faster, smarter, and more profitably.
Some interesting comments in this Article from www.stuff.co.nz about the value of Home Staging. Link to the full article is below.
"Would you give me two thusand dollars if I told you I'd give you thirty to fifty thousand back?"
Real estate agents say home staging is a must-do if you want your house to sell for top dollar.
There's little to no scientific research that proves fitting out your home with designer furniture will put tens of thousands of dollars above RV into your pocket, but the anecdotal evidence is plentiful and persuasive.
It goes a little something like this: A poorly decorated or empty abode sat on the market for several months, without even a nibble of interest. It got flicked to another, savvier agent, who insisted upon $1500 worth of staging. Within days, the gussied up property sold for fifty thousand plus over it's estimated value.
Real estate agents around the country estimate home staging adds five to seven per cent above RV to a house sale.
Like all investments, home staging carries an element of risk and the size of the return is not guaranteed. But unlike stock market shares, there's an element of perception in quantifying that return.
So we asked some experienced agents whether they buy it.
"Unfortunately, buyers just don't have vision," says Marty Ritchie of Harcourts Paremata.
The average person can't look at an empty space and envisage the next year of their life. They can see where a dining table, or couch might go, but not how their dinner parties or evenings may look.
"Your return on home staging would be in the vicinity of three to five times the investment cost - easily - because the whole emotional side of it is transformed," says Ritchie.
That return translates to a figure between $30,000 and $50,000, depending on the size of the house. In some extraordinary cases, it might reach hundreds of thousands.