Finding the perfect home that fits all your needs and desires is by no means an easy task, especially if you’re moving alone. You must consider many things, from the dimensions and location to noise levels. On top of that, you have to deal with your emotions because you’re leaving your old home. In such a complex situation, the last thing you need is a seller trying to hide the flaws of the residence to get you to buy it no matter what. If you want to prepare yourself and avoid such a situation, read this article about sneaky staging tricks to watch out for, and you’ll be able to find an ideal home without being deceived.
What is the term ‘staging’ referring to, and why do you need to know about it?
Staging is a term used to refer to the process of decorating the residence for selling in such a way as to increase its appeal to potential buyers. The purpose of staging a house is to sell it as fast as possible at the most exorbitant cost. However, some of these staging tricks are so cunning they may even be considered lying. That’s why it’s essential to be on guard against such schemes, so you don’t pay more than the residence is worth or regret buying it later on because it doesn’t look as good as when you first saw it.
The most relevant sneaky staging tricks to watch out for
If it’s not your first time searching for a new home, you might know some of the most common crafty staging methods to look out for. However, if you’re a first-time buyer, you might find it hard to notice such clever staging hoaxes. To help you out, we’ve listed the most significant ones that you should pay attention to.
Methods to make a room look bigger
When a seller wants to make a room look larger than it is, they will use a wide-angle lens when taking photos. That is why you must always see the place in person before deciding to buy it. However, even when you’re present in person, there are ways to achieve this effect. By placing many mirrors, the room can look much more spacious. Another way to accomplish this is by arranging the furniture, so the room looks less cluttered.
Concealing flaws by strategically placing furniture
When visiting a house you’re thinking about buying, make sure you thoroughly examine the place. Pay attention to the furniture that seems strangely out of place. Also, see if there are too many rugs or pictures hanging on the walls. All these things can hide certain imperfections like cracks in the walls or floors, mold, dampness, faulty construction, etc. Don’t feel scared or embarrassed to look around or move certain things to see if there are any imperfections hiding behind them. It’s your right to know what you’re buying.
Decorations used to appeal to buyers
When viewing the house, you might notice plants in pots, flowers, or other similar things used to make the space look much more appealing to the eye. Sellers sometimes go as far as to add woodwork or sculpted details that are cheap but make the room look elegant and expensive.
Scented candles and air fresheners
While some sellers may use candles and air fresheners to make the place smell nice and create a great ambiance where you can imagine yourself living, some may use these products for other purposes. If there’s something wrong with the house, for example, it has a foul odor, sellers use these items to mask the smell. However, the bad smell isn’t the only problem. An unpleasant scent can indicate something wrong with electrical components or plumbing systems. There can also be a buildup of bacteria or mold somewhere in the house. So don’t forget to focus on the smell of the house as well.
Covered windows
Just as the inside of the house is important, so is the outside. If you happen to see curtains or blinds covering the window, don’t hesitate to remove them and check the view. Windows are usually left uncovered to let the light in and create a pleasant atmosphere, so if you notice they are concealed, it means there is something wrong with the view behind them. It usually suggests very unpleasant scenery, perhaps something like a brick wall. It could also suggest there is something wrong with the window.
Piece of advice to help avoid sly staging tactics
When you decide to go and observe the residence you want to buy, bring someone with you. Two pairs of eyes are better than one. If you go with a meticulous friend, they may notice the fine details you failed to notice.
Long distance relocation
If you’re thinking of moving somewhere far away from your current home, you might not be able to bring someone with you to view the house on sale. However, do not be afraid. Pay attention to the things we previously mentioned, and you’ll be fine. Make sure you’re well rested and refreshed, and you won’t miss those deceitful staging tricks the sellers are trying to pull. If you’re satisfied with the residence, the next thing you have to think about is relocation. Moving can be challenging and stressful, which is why the team behind A2B Moving and Storage advises teaming up with professionals and putting your mind at ease.
Final Words
Now that we went through all the sneaky staging tricks to watch out for, you’re ready to start looking for a new residence. Be sure to partner up with a trusted real estate expert and remember, just because everything looks perfect, doesn’t mean it truly is.
About Gerardo Zavala, Realtor
There is a true passion for connecting people with real estate that makes me fall in love with my career over and over again. While my title says, REALTOR® I think I am much more than that. For example, I am present and actively listening to my client’s needs, on the spot when things are urgent, and by your side to say “congratulations.” Most of my clients will say that I am a connection away from support no matter the situation, day, or time. In my opinion, customer service, educating the client on progress and next steps, and overall satisfaction are my top priorities. How can I help you?
