FAQs for Realtors on Home Staging

FAQs for Realtors on Home Staging – What you need to know about cost, time, value, and how home staging leads to more listings.

Most Realtors have heard of home staging and how it can help sell a home faster and for more money but many Realtors still have questions. Here are answers to some common questions about how home staging works.

WHAT IS HOME STAGING?

What is home staging?

Home Staging is a marketing tool that uses decorating to show off a home’s best features while downplaying its flaws. Done right, staging creates an emotional connection between home and buyer, leading to a faster sale at maximum value.

 

 FAQs for Realtors on Home Staging
Home Staging by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Is staging just for vacant homes?

Home staging is for all homes, occupied or vacant. Staging a home with what a home seller already has is always the preferred choice, as it leads to greater savings on rental furniture and labor fees.

Faqs for Realtors on Home Staging

COST

How much does home staging cost?

Usually the first question I get! A better question might be can home staging help me sell faster and for more! Think of home staging as an investment, rather than a cost.

That investment will depend on the size of the house, if it is vacant or occupied, if the stager will do everything or just a consultation, followed by the seller doing the bulk of the work. It also depends on the seller having suitable furniture and accessories or if items need to be rented.

Stagers charge a fee for a consultation and give an estimate (based on an hourly fee, or a flat fee) if additional time is needed. A monthly rental fee may apply for furniture and/or accessories.

On average, stagers charge $300-$500 for that initial “working” consultation and about $100/hour for their time after that. Furniture and accessory rental costs vary based on what is needed to properly showcase the home.

Just like a home seller shouldn’t pick a real estate agent based on the highest quoted sale price for your home, a stager should not be picked based on the lowest bid. In both cases, the agent and the stager may be quoting that price just to get the job. You get what you pay for. Quality counts.

 

Who pays for home staging?

Some popular options include:

  • the home seller pays all
  • the real estate agent pays for a consultation
  • the real estate agent reimburses the home seller at closing for an agreed amount (i.e.: for the initial “working” consultation).
  • the real estate agent pays all or part of the staging

More and more Realtors are covering the cost of a consultation as part of their marketing plan, leaving any further investment up to the home seller. For clients that like to DIY, a consultation may be all they need to properly prepare their home for sale. See the article, “Who Pays for Home Staging” for more detail.

 

As a Realtor, why should I pay for home staging or a consultation?

Many savvy Realtors pay for the initial consultation and their clients pay for any additional staging services.

While getting a higher price is paramount for home sellers, it may not make a big difference in a Realtor’s commission, but certainly makes for happier clients and more referrals! Ultimately, selling faster will be great for you and your client because everyone gets paid faster. It also lowers marketing expenses for you and holding costs for your client. Home staging is an investment. With little money up front, you should be able to list the property for more and sell faster.

 

How can I help my clients understand the value of home staging?

Most Realtors believe that staging increases the dollar amount that buyers are willing to pay for a home by between 1 and 10%.  Also, homes that are staged first before listing spend 90% less time on the market.

Help your sellers see that staging will cost less than that first price reduction. The increased sales price of their home, faster closing, and reduced holding costs, will more than cover the staging investment and all with a whole lot less stress!

My sellers have a very limited budget. How can they afford the services of a professional home stager?

Think you can’t afford to hire a professional home stager? In today’s market, you can’t afford not to. For the most budget friendly option, invest in a home staging consultation. Home sellers can do the work themselves based on the advice of a professional home stager. For the best results, have the stager return for a final checkup prior to photos.

How much does it cost to do “Lite Staging”?  

Putting a few decorative items or sparse furniture in an otherwise vacant house is often more distracting for buyers than not adding anything at all. “Lite” staging or “vignette” staging of small areas is generally not a good investment as it does not help make that emotional connection which sells the home. It also does not highlight the home’s best features, give buyers a sense of how big the space is, or how their furniture might fit in the space.

Faqs for Realtors on Home Staging

PROCESS AND TIMELINE

How long does it take to stage a home?

This varies based on the size of the home, what is needed to best market the property, and the experience of the stager.

Overall, I find that an average occupied home can be staged in 8 hours or less, and a vacant home in 2 days or about 16-18 hours. If you plan to stage a vacant home, it is best to call the stager at least 2-3 weeks prior to listing. An occupied home may require less lead time, based on the staging needs. For best results, call the stager as soon as possible.

 

What is the home staging process for a vacant home?

Generally, staging can be completed within 7-14 days after the initial consultation and all needed repairs and updates are complete.

  • Consultation Up to 2 hours
  • Pre-staging- (usually 1-2 weeks). Home seller works on the consultation task list to get the home cleaned, de-cluttered, maintained, and completes updates such as painting, replacing flooring or lighting etc. The stager prepares the staging plan, coordinates with furniture rental companies, and prepares art, accessories, and furniture for transport.
  • Staging- 1 to 2 days on site.
  • De-staging- 2-3 hours. Prior to closing and after inspection is complete and/or contract is signed.

What is the home staging process for an occupied home?  

  • Consultation Up to 2 hours.
  • Pre-staging- (usually 1-2 weeks). Home seller works on the consultation task list to get the home cleaned, de-cluttered, maintained, and completes updates such as painting, replacing flooring or lighting etc. The stager prepares the staging plan, coordinates with furniture rental companies, and prepares art, accessories, and furniture, if applicable, for transport.
  • Staging- As little as a few hours or up to a full day.. Sometimes it can be done directly after the consultation.
  • De-staging- (usually 2-3 hours, if the seller has rented furniture or accessories). After inspection is complete and/or contracts are signed
  • Please visit my Services page and call to discuss details.

What does a consultation include?

A consultation gives your sellers a complete list of everything they can do to prepare their home, both inside and out – whether it is vacant or occupied. With this information, the home owner can then decide how much work they will do themselves and how much they would like the stager to do. Recommendations include:

  • cleaning
  • decluttering
  • maintenance
  • paint colors
  • flooring
  • lighting
  • furniture and accessory placement to highlight each space or focal point
  • purchases, if needed, for bedding, towels, or other items
  • contractors
  • advice for keeping the home show ready
  • curb appeal
  • preparing for the photo shoot

A professional consultation can help reinforce information you, as the Realtor, already provide.

Can the home seller do the staging themselves?

The most budget-friendly and effective thing a home seller can do is invest in a consultation with a professional stager. Have them follow the stager’s advice and do the work themselves. For the best results, have the stager come back for a final checkup prior to photos. See my article, What is the Cheapest Way to Successfully Stage Your House? Get a Home Staging Consultation.

Can I, the Realtor, do the staging myself?

It is always faster and more effective to hire the right professional for the job. If you wouldn’t recommend a home seller list as For Sale By Owner (FSBO), then it’s probably not a good idea to do the staging yourself. Even if you are a home stager, you still may wish to avoid staging the clients’ home and having those difficult conversations about cleaning, odors, pets, animal heads and the like to maintain a great relationship with your client. Wouldn’t your time be better used marketing your current listings and finding more?

 

Should every house be staged?

All houses can benefit from a 2-hour home staging consultation. There is always something that can be done to raise the perceived value of a home in the buyer’s eyes. A small investment in a home staging consultation can increase buyer appeal, reaping large rewards in the final sales price.

 

Does every room need to be staged?

Every space in an occupied home should be staged for a consistent look-and-feel throughout. For vacant homes, it is critical to stage the main rooms, awkward spaces, and any areas that add value to the sales price such as a potential rental unit. When rooms are left empty, buyers may wonder if the seller has already moved out or is desperate to sell encouraging low offers.

 

As the Realtor, do I need to be at the consultation?

Some agents never attend, some always attend, and others attend occasionally or a few minutes only. The real key to success is the home owner’s willingness to go along with the staging recommendations, and not whether the agent attends the home staging consultation. For more detail, see a great article by Susan Atwell on this subject.

 

Does the stager coordinate all the contractors such as painters, maintenance people, flooring specialists, etc.?

Stagers can recommend trusted, professional contractors. For owner occupied homes, the home owner will find it faster and more convenient to coordinate these contractors themselves. For home sellers living away from the property, the stager can easily coordinate all.

Photo by NeONBRAND on Unsplash

VALUE

Can home staging help me sell my listing faster and for more money?

Various reports (see Resources) publish statistics on the benefits of home staging. A 2017 report by the National Association of Realtors states that at least 50% of Realtors think staging increases the dollar amount buyers will offer to pay by between 1 and 10%. Also, homes that are staged first before listing spend 90% less time on the market. See the summary of some of the 2017 findings from the National Association of Realtors.

 

What should I tell a client that wants to list first and stage later if their home does not sell?

The same thing you tell a client who wants to “test” the market with an unrealistic listing price, just to inevitably reduce the price later. The longer a home is on the market, the less desirable it is. Just like food, a listing becomes stale in a very short time. You can also add that the Real Estate Staging Association Home Staging National Statistics Report found that homes that were staged first before listing, rather than after listing, spent 90% less time on the market. See the article, the “Big Bang Theory of Home Staging”.

Why should I invest in home staging in a seller’s market?

Home staging works in every type of market. Even in a seller’s market, there will always be listings that do not sell quickly. Staged homes generate more interest on the web and in person, by creating move-in ready homes that feel fresh, spacious, and up-to-date. All these conditions lead to higher offers, potential bidding wars, and greater profits for you and your clients.

 

Can home staging get me more listings?

YES! Would you like to tip the scales in your favor when competing for a listing? Want to know what top producing real estate agents do? Offer your sellers an affordable home staging consultation. Position yourself as a forward thinking agent that:

  • Gives extra value.
  • Goes the extra mile.
  • Is a savvy marketer.
  • Is known for having the best listings.

 

What should I look for when selecting a home stager?

Even though there is no legal licensing or training requirement to become a home stager, do your homework and look for a professional with training, experience, and good reviews.

An accomplished stager will have both training and proven natural talent to get you great results. See the article on tips to hiring a great stager.

Resources

An Inconvenient Truth about Selling your Home.

Answers to questions commonly asked by real estate agents considering
Home Staging for their clients

Helpful Tips on Finding a Great Home Stager

Home Staging Consultation: Should Realtors Attend?

Home Staging Proof: Solid Science Proves Staged Homes Sell Faster.

National Association of Realtors 2015 Profile of Home Staging

National Association of Realtors 2017 Profile of Home Staging

Consumers Guide to Real Estate Staging

Six Tips to Maximize Your Home Staging Consultation Dollar

Summary of 2017 Home Staging Statistics

What is the Cheapest Way to Successfully Stage Your House? Get a Home Staging Consultation.

Who Pays for Home Staging

Why Hire a Professional Home Stager?

 

Get a Copy of This Report

 
Faqs for Realtors on Home StagingDownload Now

 

Stage Your Home Today

Now that you know everything you need to about home staging, you know it is a no -brainer if you want to sell fast and for more. All staging starts with a consultation which can be in person or online. Feel free to call if you have questions and would like to discuss what would be best for you.

Online Home Staging Consultation by NOrthern Lights Home Staging and Design

 

 Get your Free Report

Top Paint Colors for a Speedy and Profitable Home Sale by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Download my Brochure

Interior Design, Color and Home Staging Services. Brochure of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Why work with Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

Prices subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

Pin These

Faqs for Realtors on Home Staging
Faqs for Realtors on Home Staging
Faqs for Realtors on Home Staging
Faqs for Realtors on Home Staging

Interested in becoming a home stager? I recommend the Staging Diva Home Staging Training program!

Staging Diva Home Staging Store

Free 10 Tips Course to Become a Home Stager




FAQs for Home Sellers on Home Staging

What you need to know about cost, time, value, and how home staging leads to a faster sale.

What is Home Staging?

What is home staging?

Home Staging is a marketing tool that uses decorating to show off a home’s best features while downplaying its flaws. Done right, staging creates an emotional connection between home and buyer, leading to a faster sale at maximum value.

Is staging just for vacant homes?

Home staging is for all homes, occupied or vacant. Staging a home with what a home seller already has is always the preferred choice, as it leads to greater savings on labor and furniture rental fees.

how much does home staging cost?
How much does home staging cost? Photo by 金 运 on Unsplash

How Much Does it Cost?

How much does home staging cost?

Usually the first question I get! A better question might be can home staging help me sell faster and for more! Think of home staging as an investment, rather than a cost.

That investment will depend on the size of your home, if it is vacant or occupied, if the stager will do everything or just a consultation, followed by you, the seller, doing the bulk of the work. It also depends on whether suitable furniture and accessories are present in the home or if items need to be rented.

Stagers charge a fee for a consultation and give an estimate (based on an hourly fee, or a flat fee) if additional time is needed. A monthly rental fee may apply for furniture and/or accessories.

On average, stagers charge $500-$600 for that initial “working” consultation and about $125/hour for their time after that. Furniture and accessory rental costs vary based on what is needed to properly showcase your home.

Just like a home seller shouldn’t pick a real estate agent based on the highest quoted sale price for your home, a stager should not be picked based on the lowest bid. In both cases, the agent and the stager may be quoting that price just to get the job. You get what you pay for. Quality counts.

Staging will always cost less than your first price reduction. An increased sales price of your home, faster closing, and reduced holding costs, will more than cover the staging investment and all with a whole lot less stress!

Who pays for home staging?

Some popular options include:

  • the home seller pays all
  • the real estate agent pays for a consultation
  • the real estate agent reimburses the home seller at closing for an agreed amount (i.e.: for the initial “working” consultation).
  • the real estate agent pays all or part of the staging

More and more Realtors are covering the cost of a consultation as part of their marketing plan, leaving any further investment up to the home seller. If you like to DIY, a home staging consultation may be all you need to properly prepare your home for sale. See the article, “Who Pays for Home Staging” for more detail.

Why should I pay for home staging or a consultation?

Home staging is a worthwhile investment. You are, after all, the one who will gain the most financially from a higher sales price. In addition, selling faster will be great for you because you get paid faster. It also reduces your holding costs (mortgage, utilities. taxes etc.) while your home is on the market.

Your Realtor may include paying for the initial consultation as part of their marketing plan.

I am on a very limited budget. How can I afford the services of a professional home stager?

Think you can’t afford to hire a professional home stager? In today’s market, you can’t afford not to. For the most budget friendly option, invest in a home staging consultation. Home sellers can do the work themselves based on the advice of a professional home stager. For the best results, have the stager return for a final checkup prior to photos.

How much does it cost to do “Lite Staging”? 

Putting a few decorative items or sparse furniture in an otherwise vacant house is often more distracting for buyers than not adding anything at all. “Lite” staging or “vignette” staging of small areas is generally not a good investment as it does not help make that emotional connection which sells the home. It also does not highlight the home’s best features, give buyers a sense of how big the space is, or how their furniture might fit in the space.

What is the process to stage a vacant or occupied home? Photo by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

What is the Process and How Long Does it Take?

How long will it take to stage my home?

This varies based on the size of your home, what is needed to best market the property, and the experience of the stager.

Overall, I find that an average occupied home can be staged in 8 hours or less, and a vacant home in 2 days or about 16-18 hours. If your home is vacant, it is best to call the stager at least 2-3 weeks prior to listing. An occupied home may require less lead time, based on the staging needs. For best results, call the stager as soon as possible.

What is the home staging process for a vacant home?

Generally, staging can be completed within 7-14 days after the initial consultation and all needed repairs and updates are complete.

  • Consultation Up to 2 hours
  • Pre-staging- (usually 1-2 weeks). Home seller works on the consultation task list to get the home cleaned, de-cluttered, maintained, and completes updates such as painting, replacing flooring or lighting etc. The stager prepares the staging plan, coordinates with furniture rental companies, and prepares art, accessories, and furniture for transport.
  • Staging- 1 to 2 days on site.
  • De-staging- 2-3 hours. Prior to closing and after inspection is complete and/or contract is signed.

What is the home staging process for an occupied home? 

  • Consultation Up to 2 hours.
  • Pre-staging- (usually 1-2 weeks). Home seller works on the consultation task list to get the home cleaned, de-cluttered, maintained, and completes updates such as painting, replacing flooring or lighting etc. The stager prepares the staging plan, coordinates with furniture rental companies, and prepares art, accessories, and furniture, if applicable, for transport.
  • Staging- As little as a few hours or up to a full day. Sometimes it can be done directly after the consultation.
  • De-staging- (usually 2-3 hours, if the seller has rented furniture or accessories). After inspection is complete and/or contracts are signed
  • Please visit my Services page and call to discuss details.

What does a consultation include?

A consultation gives you a complete list of everything you can do to prepare your home, both inside and out – whether it is vacant or occupied. With this information, a home owner can then decide how much work they will do themselves and how much they would like the stager to do. Recommendations include:

  • cleaning
  • decluttering
  • maintenance
  • paint colors
  • flooring
  • lighting
  • furniture and accessory placement to highlight each space or focal point
  • purchases, if needed, for bedding, towels, or other items
  • contractors
  • advice for keeping the home show ready
  • curb appeal
  • preparing for the photo shoot

Can I do the staging myself?

The most effective and budget-friendly approach is to invest in a consultation with a professional stager. Follow the stager’s advice and do the work yourself. For the best results, have the stager come back for a final checkup prior to photos. See my article, What is the Cheapest Way to Successfully Stage Your House? Get a Home Staging Consultation.

Can my Realtor do the staging for me?

It is always faster and more effective to hire the right professional for the job. If your Realtor is not a professional stager, it is better for your bottom line to hire a professional. Wouldn’t you rather have your Realtor spending his/her time finding the ideal buyer for your home than staging it?

Should every house be staged?

Every home can benefit from a 2-hour home staging consultation. There is always something that can be done to raise the perceived value of your home in the buyer’s eyes. A small investment in a home staging consultation can increase buyer appeal, reaping large rewards in the final sales price.

Do I need to stage every room?  

Every space in an occupied home should be staged for a consistent look-and-feel throughout. For vacant homes, it is critical to stage the main rooms, awkward spaces, and any areas that add value to the sales price such as a potential rental unit. When rooms are left empty, buyers may wonder if you have already moved out or are desperate to sell, encouraging low offers.

Does my Realtor need to be at the consultation?

Some agents never attend, some always attend, and others attend occasionally or a few minutes only. Your agent is always welcome to attend any or all of the consultation but the real key to success is your willingness to go along with the staging recommendations.

Does the stager coordinate all the contractors such as painters, maintenance people, flooring specialists, etc.?

Stagers can recommend trusted, professional contractors. For owner occupied homes, you as the home owner will find it faster and more convenient to coordinate these contractors yourself. For home sellers living away from the property, the stager can easily coordinate all.

Do you rent furniture and accessories so I can stage it myself?

Most stagers are not rental companies and do not offer this service separately if they are not staging your home. When staging your property, your stager can coordinate furniture rentals and may have accessories for rent for your staging.

Is it important to find a stager that has their own inventory of furniture and accessories?  

For vacant homes, the most important thing is the end product and that the furniture matches the style, size, and purpose of each room. Stagers may have or can rent up-to-date furniture and accessories that are perfect for your property.

What should I look for when selecting a home stager?

Even though there is no legal licensing or training requirement to become a home stager, do your homework.

An accomplished stager will have good reviews, training and proven natural talent to get you great results. See the article on tips to hiring a great stager.

what is the value of home stagingWhat is the value of home staging? Photo by Morning Brew on Unsplash

What is the Value of Home Staging

Can home staging help me sell my home faster and for more money?

Various reports (see Resources) publish statistics on the benefits of home staging. A 2017 report by the National Association of Realtors states that at least 50% of Realtors think staging increases the dollar amount buyers will offer to pay for a home by between 1 and 10%. Also, homes that are staged first before listing spend 90% less time on the market. See the summary of some of the 2017 findings from the National Association of Realtors.

Should I list first and stage later if my home does not sell?

The RESA Home Staging National Statistics Report found that homes that were staged first before listing, rather than after listing, spent 90% less time on the market. The longer a home is on the market, the less desirable it becomes. Just like food, a home for sale becomes stale in a very short period of time. See the article, the “Big Bang Theory of Home Staging”.

Why should I invest in home staging in a seller’s market?

Home staging works in every type of market. Even in a seller’s market, there will always be homes that do not sell quickly. Staged homes generate more interest on the web and in person, by creating move-in ready homes that feel fresh, spacious, and up-to-date. All these conditions lead to higher offers, potential bidding wars, and greater profits for you.

what can you expect with home stagng
What can you expect if you have your home staged? Photo by Jan Tinneberg from Unsplash.

What Should I Expect?

The truth is that nothing is more inconvenient and stressful than selling your home. A good home stager will be a great asset to your home selling team. They will make your house look great, help you make the most money by selling quickly, and be a great coach and supporter to you throughout the process. Their number one goal is to help you!

Having realistic expectations of the process, time, and energy involved will help you be successful. The article, An Inconvenient Truth About Selling Your Home is a must read.

Do I need professional photos!  

Professional photos will highlight your for-sale home making your listing outshine the competition. The combination of home staging and professional photos will capture a buyer’s interest online, compelling them to visit your property! See my article, “Preparing for your Photoshoot”to make sure your rooms and the photos look fabulous. Your Realtor may pay for professional photos.

Will I be able to live in my staged home?

Keeping your house “show ready” can be stressful. Your stager will give you helpful tips for staying organized and comfortable while living in your staged home. And, best of all, you’ll never have to turn down a showing because you’ll be able to show your property at a moment’s notice.

Written by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design and Susan Atwell of Atwell Staged Homes

Get a Copy of This Report

FAQs for Home Sellers on Home Staging

Stage Your Home Today

Now that you know everything you need to about home staging, you know it is a no -brainer if you want to sell fast and for more. All staging starts with a consultation which can be in person or online. Feel free to call if you have questions and would like to discuss what would be best for you.

Online Home Staging Consultation by NOrthern Lights Home Staging and Design
Why work with Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

Prices subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

Pin These

FAQs for Home Sellers on Home Staging
FAQs for Home Sellers on Home Staging
FAQs for Home Sellers on Home Staging
FAQs for Home Sellers on Home Staging

Interested in becoming a home stager? I recommend the Staging Diva Home Staging Training program!

Staging Diva Home Staging Store

Free 10 Tips Course to Become a Home Stager




Lose Weight, Quit Smoking, Get Healthy and Peaceful Without Pain

How are you feeling about yourself?


How are you feeling about yourself? Lose Weight, Quit Smoking, Get Healthy and Peaceful Without Pain
How are you feeling about yourself? Photo by Taylor Smith on Unsplash
  • Do you like the way you look?
  • Are you healthy and happy?
  • Do you feel peaceful, abundant and grateful for all you have?
  • Do you love the way you start each day?

Why do so many of us go on for years without changing our lives for the better? I know for me it has always been the struggle between the short-term pain versus the long-term gain.

Imagine yourself thinner, healthier, happier and more peaceful. What if you could transform yourself? I mean lose weight, quit smoking, improve your health and well-being, reduce your stress and do it all without all the “pain” we usually imagine coming along for the ride?

The Same Old Struggle

Like many people, I struggle with all of those things. Every year I had the same resolutions, goals etc. Lose weight, work out, eat better, quit smoking. EVERY YEAR for at least 20 years. I had some successes in some things some of the time, but never in all of the things.

THEN IT CHANGED

https://northernlightsstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/maryann_benoit_tcp_testimonial.mp4

For me it was the same old struggle. Mary Ann Benoit- President of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

I heard about Jim Fortin and TCP (Transformational Coaching Program) from a friend who was taking the program. I listened to his free podcast and was so hooked on it I was excited to learn about the program which opens up 2 times a year. Just from listening to his podcast about controlling your thoughts and habits among other things, I was inspired to change my diet and started losing weight. I thought the program could also help me not only with health but with business. Learn more about Jim Fortin in this Inc Magazine article.

Invest money in personal development during a pandemic? Are you smoking crack?

I was scared to invest in a program like this at the beginning of COVID. The program was just under $3000.  I knew business would be slow or suspended for both my Bed and Breakfast and my Home Staging and Design businesses.  I had never invested in any type of “personal development” course before. I decided it was the best time to do it because I had time and it would be better to remain positive during this time of uncertainty and to make lemonade out of lemons. I also figured investing in myself and my business would hopefully pay for itself later.


Photo by Micheile Henderson on Unsplash

Make a Change. Lose Weight, Quit Smoking, Get Healthy and Peaceful Without Pain
Make a Change. Photo by Kat Yukawa on Unsplash

I soon realize that Jim and his coaches are truly amazing. I join their Facebook private group with about 500 others, and receive weekly content such as workbooks, videos and audios with homework followed by weekly Facebook lives with Jim and the coaches on a wide variety of topics from health to business. We worked on things like clarity, vision, sub-conscious values, habits, self-integrity, responsibility, commitment, choices, relationships You could also ask for coaching on any topic in the FB group or do a “hot seat” on one of the live calls. The community of people in the group from all over the world was extremely positive and supportive. Participants also did regular videos talking about their struggles and wins so everyone got to know each other.

We were each asked to do a 90 planner and track our goals and activities, with a focus on either health/wellness or business. I picked business.

So, what happened to me?

TCP Improved my Health

I joined TCP to increase my income for my Interior Design/Home Staging business.

Although my focus was business, the program instead provided incredible value to my health and well-being.

TCP helped me overcome stress over-eating and smoking that I had struggled with for more than 20 years.  I lost 14 lbs, quit smoking and totally changed my diet to healthy whole foods and went from exercising a few hours a week to 3-4 hours a day.

What was interesting was what we learned about subconscious re-programming and habits helped make all these changes much less painful than I had experienced in the past. Why? As Jim mentioned in an article in Forbes Magazine, “Research has demonstrated that 95% of all habits and everything that we do is subconsciously-driven, which is housed in the right brain. But when we say, for example, ‘I’m going to change my mindset,’ that is a left-brain, analytical thought. We’re using the smallest part of the brain, the 5% analytical part, to try to change our habits at a core level, and it just doesn’t work that way.”

I also struggled with voice issues which made it difficult to speak sometimes and found that doing healing visualizations and quitting smoking helped improve that tremendously.

I also have a nerve issue in my right foot that made it painful to walk more than 30 minutes. With healing visualizations and weight loss I am out walking several times a day without pain


Re-program your subconscious mind.. Lose Weight, Quit Smoking, Get Healthy and Peaceful Without Pain
Re-program your subconscious mind..

TCP Improved My Well-Being

I used to be that person that would wake up thinking about what I had to do, check my email and social media and then DO DO DO all day and into the night for my business. I watched 5-6 hours of news a day and was stressed out, like a hamster on the wheel that never stopped.

Now, I start the day with a Miracle Morning routine consisting of silence, affirmations, visualizations, exercise, reading and journaling. I’ve learned do less better and feel amazingly peaceful, and grateful for all I have. I limit my news watching time to an hour or less.  

TCP helped me release anger and stories I had developed from a 15 year traumatic work experience which likely caused some of my health issues and stress eating.  Releasing the stories and forgiving brought me peace and healing.


Get off the Hamster Wheel. Lose Weight, Quit Smoking, Get Healthy and Peaceful Without Pain
Find Peace. Get off the Hamster Wheel.

My Doctor Was Amazed

Last week I went to my doctor for my annual check up and blood work. She said “Holy cow Mary Ann, What the heck have you been doing?  Actually she said “Holy Shit Mary Ann, What the hell are you doing?”.  My doctor and I used to dance together in a dance troupe so that is how she really talks to me:) Your blood work looks fantastic and you have lost 45 lbs from your highest weight record here. I told her about TCP. She said, “I am so proud of you, you just inspired me and made my whole day”!.

Yeah!! I’m good with that!


Lose Weight, Quit Smoking, Get Healthy and Peaceful Without Pain
Photo- Wow from Pixaby

While my business income didn’t increase, I think I needed to be better to offer more to my clients and am looking forward to what the future brings for my business now that I feel like a new person.  I liked it so much, I just joined TCP for Business.

“The pandemic puts the earth on pause, cleansing and shifting our planet. This course does that for me on an individual level”. 

Try it for Yourself

Don’t take my word for it, try it for yourself. Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning I may get paid a small amount for referring you at no additional cost to you.

Get on the Waitlist for the next TCP Program. I think this is the best training I have ever invested in. It made a huge difference for me which is why I am sharing. I hope it can make a difference for you too.

Check out Jim Fortin’s Podcast. This is how I started and it’s free,

Listen to this podcast episode- Why Your Bad Habits are So Hard To Break. This one really helped me to change some of my eating habits and lose weight, even before joining the program.

This is a great episode too. How the Law of Attraction Repels Money and Abundance you Want.

Listen to the Master Thought Formula, which is amazing!

Ways to Work With Me

I specialize in helping you create a colorful and happy home that tells your story. I can work with you in person or online and assist you with design and color consultations so you can do the work yourself, or I can help you implement it all. My most popular package is a design/color consultation. Check out all my Edesign packages here.


Design and Color Consultation- On Site. Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. My most popular package! Get all your design and color questions answered at the same time to develop a great plan. This combines my Design consultation and not your average color consultation packages together and saves you $150 from purchasing them separately. Includes up to 4 hours of time.

What’s Your Global Design Style?


What's Your Global Design Style? Take the Quiz

Download my Brochure

Interior Design, Color and Home Staging Services. Brochure of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

 

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

Prices subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

Pin This

Lose Weight, Quit Smoking, Get Healthy and Peaceful Without Pain

Learn to Be Your Best Self and Live the Life You Were Meant to- The World Needs You.
Learn to Be Your Best Self and Live the Life You Were Meant to- The World Needs You.
Learn to Be Your Best Self and Live the Life You Were Meant to- The World Needs You.




Virtual Staging- Is it Home Staging or Interior Design?

Great question. I’m glad you asked? Usually, they are very different things. The key difference is who you are decorating or designing for.

Home staging is decorating for the buyer. The goal is to make an emotional connection with them, so they can envision themselves living there and want to make an offer. You are appealing to their vision of their ideal lifestyle. To learn more about home staging, see my article, Home Staging- How it Works and What it Costs.

Interior design is decorating for the homeowner. The goal is to also to make an emotional connection and create their vision of a home that works for their ideal lifestyle.

There are some definite differences in how you make this emotional connection. In home staging, you are decorating for the target market, or most likely buyer of the home, whether It’s a young family, retired professionals or whoever. Colors are generally more neutral to appeal to a greater number of people. The decorating should highlight the features of the home, rather than tell the story of the owners. Personal items are usually removed. About half of the items your normally live with are removed to make it feel more spacious and show off the features of the home itself. Home staging is often done with the seller’s belongings, or with rental furniture and décor which are often typical retail items that are lower to mid-range in price.

With Interior design, it is important to let the personal story of the homeowner shine. Colors can be as rich or colorful as you like. Personal items are highlighted and given a place of honor. How much is on display all depends on the style the owner prefers. Interior design may use a wide range of retail or unique or custom furniture and decor in a wide range of price points.

Virtual staging is digital home staging done to a photo of a vacant room. The virtual staging may be done with a software program that has specific items available for use in the program, or it may be done by a designer with access to any product available on the market, both retail and custom. Virtual staging by a designer may offer more options for design and home décor than staging software programs. To learn more about virtual staging, see my article, Virtual Home Staging and Design- the Pros and Cons.

Recently, I completed this virtual staging project, which was selected as an example of Edesign for an Interior Design magazine, “Vision”, for the article “5 Things You Need to Know About Edesign” by JoAnne Lenart- Weary. The article starts on page 50, and my design is on page 55. To learn more about Edesign, see my article, Edesign-How it Works.

In this case, the virtual staging was both home staging and Interior Design! I used Photoshop, rather than a virtual staging program to complete the design.


Vision Magazine featured and Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design in an article on page 50, 5 Things YOu Need to Know About Edesign by Joanne, Leary-Wenart. #edesign #visionmagazine
Vision Magazine, Volume 41, Issue 1, January-February 2020

5 Things You Need to Know About Edesign” by JoAnne Lenart for Vision Magazine.
After- Interior Design and Virtual Staging by Mary Ann Benoit- Northern Lights Home Staging and Design
Before

The target market for this staging project was a young family in a high-end neighborhood. I created a modern global style design I thought would appeal to young, professional buyers in their 30’s that were starting a new family. I used greens for the colors, as green appeals to most people, and would not seem either too feminine or masculine. The wall color of the home was already neutral. The design is casual, comfortable, modern and uncluttered to highlight the features of the home. The living room design was chosen for the magazine article.

Here is the living room from another angle.

Before
After- Interior Design and Virtual Staging by Mary Ann Benoit- Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Here are a few of the products I used in the living room design. Click on the pictures to learn more. Some are affiliate links, meaning they give me a small commission for sharing at no additional cost to you.

I love all this beautiful black and white art from Arhaus.









Get 5% off this pillow and all products at Bryar Wolf with code northernlightsstaging5 at check out.












Here is close up of the dining area in this open concept space.

After- Interior Design and Virtual Staging by Mary Ann Benoit- Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

To show the possibilities for the large unfinished basement, I created a playroom area next to a comfortable family area where mom or dad could work while doing laundry and keeping an eye on the kids. There is also a crafting area and table. The rugs and kids’ furniture are all washable and pet friendly.

Before
After- Interior Design and Virtual Staging by Mary Ann Benoit- Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Here are a few of the products I used for this unfinished basement. These beautiful rugs from Ruggable can be removed from the pad and washed in a washing machine, and are kid and pet friendly, as are the washable covers on the bean bag furniture for kids from Pottery Barn Kids.







This self adhesive wall decal is easy to put on and remove.





Love these cat art dolls on Etsy!

You may be wondering, is virtual staging helping this house sell? The house is still for sale. It has been on the market 4 months, and was virtually staged after being on the market a month vacant. In looking at the market data for similar homes today, it appears this home is initially overpriced by $30k-$40K (10%) and the current price is still over market value even with 4 price reductions. Staging can help you sell quicker and for more, but it is not a silver bullet, and requires a competitive price when first listing and good marketing for it to work. Virtual staging has generated more interest in the home, and is probably the best option in this case so the sellers do not incur monthly rental costs for furniture and accessories associated with traditional home staging, as they wait to get their asking price.

Need Help with your Home Staging Project?

Need help staging your home for a speedy and profitable home sale?  Check out my home staging services. I offer local in person home staging consultations, vacant and occupied staging. I also offer online home staging consultations, virtual staging and social media marketing for your home sale nationwide.

Sign up for my monthly design, color and staging tips and a get a free report on Top Paint Colors for a Speedy and Profitable Home Sale. Never miss a great idea!

Get your Free Report

Top Paint Colors for a Speedy and Profitable Home Sale by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

What's Your Global Design Style? Take this fun quiz to find out. Northern Lights Home Staging and Design #globalstyle #designstyle #interiordesign #onlinedesign #stylequiz #interiordesignquiz #interiorstylequizCall 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

Download my Brochure

Interior Design, Color and Home Staging Services. Brochure of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Northern Lights Home Staging and Design is an award winning company with training in home staging, Interior Design and color consulting. We have won numerous awards for customer service, our blog, youtube channel and Interior design.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Disclaimer

Prices subject to change without notice.

Follow me on Pinterest

Virtual Staging- Is it Home Staging or Interior Design?
Virtual Staging- Is it Home Staging or Interior Design?
Virtual Staging- Is it Home Staging or Interior Design?
Virtual Staging- Is it Home Staging or Interior Design?
Virtual Staging- Is it Home Staging or Interior Design?
Virtual Staging- Is it Home Staging or Interior Design?




Best Interior Designs of 2018

Searchmetry  wrote an article, “30 Interior Designers show off their best Interior Designs from 2018” which considers Interior Designers to follow in 2019 and the most important factors they focus on. They asked Interior Designers nationwide about their favorite design projects.  Northern Lights Home Staging and Design was honored to be one of the designers selected and to receive their Best Interior Designs 2018 award.

We were asked to submit our three favorite design project and discuss why they were our favorites. They then selected 27 designs for the article.

They selected my global design for a Turkish Style living room for the article.

“This Edesign project was one of my favorites because it embodies many of the design trends for 2019, including getting away from gray and celebrating color, mixing colors, patterns, and textures, mixing metals, and mixing vintage and modern styles.
This design uses Sherwin Williams color of the year, “Cavern Clay” with modern art and furniture and a traditional rug, accents and lighting.”

Awarded one of the top Interior Designs of 2018 by Searchmetry. Turkish Style Living Room Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. #edesign #cavernclay #colorconsulting #Interiordesign #bohemian #interiordecorating #paint #colors #homedecor #homedesign #moderndecor #colorfuldecor #interiordecor #decorating #interiorstyle #colorstrategy #interiorpaintcolors #colortips #interiorcolor #colorfuldecor #bohemian #global #99664
Awarded one of the top Interior Designs of 2018 by Searchmetry. Turkish Style Living Room Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

As a result of the article, we all received our badge of honor:)

Best Interior Design award- Northern Lights Home Staging and Design #99664 #awardwinning #bestinteriordesign #edesign #interiordesign #colorconsulting

To find out more about this particular design, see my blog article on Ways to Use Sherwin Wlliams 2019 Color of the Year, Cavern Clay.

Interested in learning more about Edesign? See my article on How Can I work with and Interior Designer on my Budget. If you would like help creating a beautiful Interior Design for your space, give me a call!


 

Want to learn more? Sign up to get our monthly award winning blog articles and get a free report in appreciation. Visit our award winning Youtube channel. Never miss a great idea!

One of the top 100 home staging blogs on the webNorthern Lights Home Staging and Design Award Winning YouTube Channel

See our latest post from our award winning blog!

Get your Free Report

Wondering what your Global Design Style is? Take the quiz and find out!

What is your global design style?
Take the quiz

 

Check out our publications 

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

Northern Lights Home Staging and Design is an award winning company with training in home staging, Interior Design and color consulting. We have won numerous awards for customer service, our blog, youtube channel and Interior design.
Northern Lights Home Staging and Design is an award winning company with training in home staging, Interior Design and color consulting. We have won numerous awards for customer service, our blog, youtube channel and Interior design.



Embrace Color with Fractal Art for Interior Design

I recently discovered an art form called fractal art and love working with it to create beautiful pieces that are perfect for your Interior Design project! I love working with the brilliant colors, textures and the incredible detail possible with Fractal art.

So what is fractal art? I do not totally understand it myself. It is a  form of algorithmic art created by calculating fractal objects which can create still and moving images. It is a form of computer or digital art developed in the 1980’s.  Bottom line? It is abstract art created by math.

Creating fractal art is like traveling through a kaleidoscope that has no beginning or end.  When traveling, you find a place you want to stop and stay a while. While there,  you can manipulate the color, texture, light, shine, spectrum, hue and other elements around you until you have created the perfect place, and then you save it as an image. Sometimes I go a little too far playing with the elements and I ruin what I have made but can not go back. So I feel lucky when I can capture the perfect image. It is impossible to ever find that place again if I did want to replicate it…it would be like finding a single drop of water within the ocean. That is why each piece is one of a kind.

Working with fractal art is a little like meditation and color therapy mixed together. As a person that totally loves color, I am in my happy place!

So how can you use fractal art in your home? Here is an example of a Bohemian style living room that I created and Edesign for using fractal art for the wall art and pillows.

I am honored that SSP Studio and Gallery in Anchorage reached out to me and loved my work and wanted to carry it in the gallery. The three pieces below are available for sale in a wide variety of sizes and mediums  done with high quality printing that can be shipped worldwide. They have beautiful  photography that has been modified using various effects to create unique and amazing pieces. If you see other works that you like, use the code NLS5 at checkout to get a 5% discount.

One of a kind fractal art for Interior Design by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design available for sale at SSP Studio and Gallery in Anchorage AK. Shipping available everywhere.

I have also opened an Artist Studio at Society 6, and you can get my fractal art on a variety of home decor products such as art, pillows and bedding, curtains, wall hangings and furniture. Stop by and visit and see if there is anything perfect for your home!

Here are a few examples of some of the products available (not all are shown). For more designs and products, stop by the studio.

If you would like a custom piece for your Interior Design project, contact me and I can design something just for you.

Wondering what your Global Design Style is? Take the quiz and find out!

 

What is your global design style?
Take the quiz

Check out our publications 

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

Northern Lights Home Staging and Design is an award winning company with training in home staging, Interior Design and color consulting. We have won numerous awards for customer service, our blog, youtube channel and Interior design.




Northern Lights Home Staging and Design named Best of Houzz 2019

Northern Lights Home Staging and Design is recognized as a 2019 “Best of Houzz” by Houzz.com – the leading online platform for home remodeling and design.

Out of 2.1 million home professionals from across the United States and around the world, Northern Lights Home Staging and Design earned Best of Houzz 2019 in Customer Service. The Houzz website has 40 million monthly users, and the Best of Houzz Service award is based on the number and quality of positive client reviews received in 2018.

“Best of Houzz is a true badge of honor as it is awarded by our community of homeowners, those who are hiring design, remodeling and other home improvement professionals for their projects,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of Industry Marketing for Houzz. Homeowners from around the world use Houzz.com to find remodeling inspiration and to connect with top-rated Interior Designers, home stagers or color consultants like Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

“It’s a great achievement and I am really honored to have achieved the award the last four years in a row!   I hope if provides peace of mind to potential clients that my work and service is endorsed by Houzz.  I thank all my clients for leaving great reviews and making this possible”Mary Ann Benoit- Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Check out Northern Lights Home Staging and Design’s five star reviews on Houzz.

Check out our publications 

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

Northern Lights Home Staging and Design awards and credentials  




What’s Your Global Interior Design Style- Greek!

Greek Interior Design Style Elements

The colors of Greece. Photo of Santorini by MariaMichelle from Pixaby.

Greek Interior Design is simple and elegant, inspired by nature, and looks light, bright, airy and clean. If you like lots of white with beautiful vivid blue, green, fuchsia and gold accents, and a clean, de-cluttered, rustic look, Greek Interior design might be perfect for you! Designs tend to be simple, symmetrical, classical, and relaxing. Less is more.

Greek Style Living Room- Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Greek Interior Design is simple and elegant, inspired by nature, and looks light, bright, airy and clean. If you like lots of white with beautiful vivid blue, green, fuchsia and gold accents, and a clean, de-cluttered, rustic look, Greek Interior design might be perfect for you! #globaldesign #greek #greekstyle #interiordesign #edesign #onlinedesign #virtualdesign
Greek Style Living Room- Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

  • Color- Lots of white with beautiful vivid blue, green, fuchsia and gold accents.
  • Design elements- whitewashed or exposed stone walls, blue shutters, Greek key pattern, columns (Ionic, Corinthian or Doric designs) incorporated into architecture, furniture or accessories. Moldings with classical details.
  • Accessories– Antique oil jars, glazed pottery, colorful glass. Greek columns holding sculptures or statues, plants or framing architectural elements.
  • Fabrics– Lightweight, sheer and white or neutral colors. Hang sheer white curtains on the windows or use sheer white fabric as a canopy over a bed. Varying shades of blue, often incorporating the Greek key pattern or stripes.
  • Architectural elements– exposed  wooden beams, stone walls, columns, and arches.
  • Flooring- stone, marble or limestone, ceramic tile, stained concrete. Area rugs with stripes, flowers or the Greek key patters are common.
  • Furniture-wooden furniture with carvings and soft simple lines. Modern furniture often incorporates the Greek key pattern.

Greek Interior Design is simple and elegant, inspired by nature, and looks light, bright, airy and clean. If you like lots of white with beautiful vivid blue, green, fuchsia and gold accents, and a clean, de-cluttered, rustic look, Greek Interior design might be perfect for you! #globaldesign #greek #greekstyle #interiordesign #edesign #onlinedesign #virtualdesign

 

Greek Interior Design Style Elements to Try

To get the look, you could go all out and incorporate all the elements of Greek Interior Design, or you can add some key elements to your existing decor. Try  lamps, pillows or rugs incorporating varying shades of blue reflecting the colors of the sea and the sky typically used in this style. Incorporate art using shades of blue that have natural elements related to plants or the sea. Try furniture, accessories or rugs with the Greek key pattern.   Here are some products you might like. Click on any of the pictures learn more.   Some contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase, they give me a small commission but it does not change your price. This allows me to take time to curate these products for you for free.

 

Are You Inspired?

These are just a few ideas of how to capture this beautiful style in your home. For help in putting it all together, other options to create this beautiful style, or help with your Interior Design or color needs, call 907-362-0065 today for a design consultation. Find out more about my services.

 

Wondering what your Global Design Style is? Take the quiz and find out!

What's Your Global Design Style? Take this fun quiz to find out. Northern Lights Home Staging and Design #globalstyle #designstyle #interiordesign #onlinedesign #stylequiz #interiordesignquiz #interiorstylequiz

 




Interview with Mary Ann Benoit-Seward Public Radio’s Market Minute

Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design shares tips on how you can spend a little but make a lot with home staging when selling your home on Seward Public Radio’s “Market Minute” with Nicole Lawrence.

Nicole and Mary Ann discussed how home staging can be used as a marketing tool for your home sale.

They discussed some of Mary Ann’s home staging projects, the cost of home staging, why home staging works even in a seller’s market, how a seller can make more on their sales price with staging than without.

They discussed some of the various report and statistics about how home staging affects the sales price and time on the market.

They discussed some of the details on how spending a certain amount on home staging can reap the benefit of selling your house for up to 20% more.

Nicole Lawrence of Seward Properties “Market Minute” show is a wealth of information for home buyers or sellers on the Seward Real Estate Market. You can hear her show every Thursday on Seward Public Radio on 91.7 KIBH-FM, Seward, Alaska.

To learn more about home staging and how it can help you market your property, give Mary Ann a call at 907-362-0065.

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

Northern Lights Home Staging and Design awards and credentials




FAQ’s For Home Sellers- What is Home Staging?

What is Home Staging? Wondering if there is a magic wand that you could wave at your house to make it sell fast and for more? Well, there is! It is called home staging. Find out “What is home staging”  in this video on FAQ’s for Home Sellers on Home Staging.

What is home staging?

Home Staging is a marketing tool that uses decorating to show off a home’s best features while downplaying its flaws. Done right, staging creates an emotional connection between home and buyer, leading to a faster sale at maximum value.

My report, FAQ’s for Home Sellers on Home Staging has tons of useful information on every question you may have had on home staging. Whether it is, what is home staging, how much does it cost, what is the process, who pays, why it works or for how much more your house may sell for if you try staging, it’s in here!

 

Ready to Sell Fast and For More?

Get your online home staging consultation or staging service today. Click on the pictures to learn more. For in person consultations or staging, call for a custom quote.

Top Paint Colors for a Speedy and Profitable Home Sale by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design


Gift Cards

Give a home staging gift card.


 

 

 

Why work with Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

Prices subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

 

Pin This

Faqs for Home Sellers on Home Staging

Interested in becoming a home stager? I recommend the Staging Diva Home Staging Training program!

 

Staging Savvy Quiz: Do You Have the Eye of a Home Stager?

Free 10 Tips Course to Become a Home Stager