A confession: It's time to sell and here's why I would hire a home stager...

I would need suggestions from an unbiased perspective. My first thought: Invite my friends over for wine and music, go  through each room with a to-do list and make a fun evening out of it.

My friends would compliment and give suggestions. I would wax nostalgically,  taking random trips down memory lane.  My defenses would go up---this is my nest after all, filled with memories, hard work, planning, collections of pictures and decor from my travels that are near and dear to my heart. But as a professional home stager, I know this is a touchy topic and not everyone is going to like my specific tastes.

I first and foremost would sign on with a professional Realtor.  No for sale by owner, less commission gimmicks-hire a professional with the education, continued training, license and access to MLS.  

Realtors have a communication system within their realty center as well as with other agencies.  Networking, calling and connecting seller to buyer is their job, as well as market analysis to ensure my property is priced right.

Realtors are trained  to have the delicate conversation about de-cluttering, neutral paint tones, and curb appeal.  Let's be honest here.  Realtors are also highly trained professionals that focus on networking, property values, and meeting deadlines.  Discussing paint colors, de-cluttering and curb appeal is a more in depth process that needs time and consideration for the homeowner. 

My second process-find a professional home stager.  Fees range from $75 to $130 for a in-home consultation which generally covers suggestions on curb appeal and interior updates.  The 30 to 60 minute consultation provides the homeowner with pictures of each area/room with a task list.

The task list provides helpful de-cluttering instructions on boxes and storage bags needed,  and locations to drop off donated goods, free cycle through the local community via social media and consignment stores to earn some extra moving cash.  A professional stager will also recommend furniture placement,  tricks and tips to getting the most visual impact for each room. 

What if the in home consultation task list is too much to do?  

Stagers offer assistance with hands on moving of furniture and decor, starting at $200 and up, depending on time and scope of project.  The home stager will have an accurate rate after the initial home consultation. 

The extra decor for the bling factor. Stagers generally have a set of neutral tone, up to date accessories to enhance existing rooms available for rent before picture day and for the critical first 30 days on the market.  

Tricks, such as mirrors, light weight canvas prints, faux greenery can add that "pop" without the cost.  If the homeowner wishes to buy a few key pieces for staging and to use at their new home, stagers offer shopping, either on-line or in person custom tailored to a clients budget.

Selling a home is a daunting, emotional process. 

We have owned and sold several homes in the past twenty years and I've been able to step outside of the emotional attachment, see it as a sellable product and apply my training.  Our current home is truly our home and if we decide to sell, I would honestly have a difficult time removing my memories and attachment...I would enlist a professional stager to give me an unbiased opinion to help me save time prepping for the final move, time on the market and most importantly, money.