So, your clients have spent the time, money, and effort to rehab a fix-and-flip property—now they need to sell. But before they put the property on the market, there is one important step they cannot do without: staging. A staged property doesn't just attract more buyers but sells the house faster and for a higher price as well.
You act as a go-between in brokering deals between your clients and the next owners of the property. With your expertise and network, you can advise them on how to get the highest ROI and make deals happen efficiently. In this blog, we will dissect the best staging approaches for fix-and-flip properties and provide suggestions on how you can contribute to your client's projects. Let's get started!
Why Staging Matters for Fix-and-Flip Properties
Staging is not just about making a house look pretty—it's about evoking an emotional response from potential buyers. Here's how staging is crucial:
- First Impressions Count: Buyers often make up their minds within seconds of walking into a property.
- Highlight the Potential: Staging helps buyers envision themselves living in the space.
- Faster Sales: Staged homes sell 73% faster than non-staged homes, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
- Higher Offers: Staged homes can sell for 6-10% more than their non-staged counterparts.
By assisting your clients in staging their properties, you can establish yourself as an expert advisor and boost your chances of quickly closing deals.
Staging Strategies to Sell Fix-and-Flip Properties Fast
Here are the top staging strategies your clients should consider:
1. Boost Curb Appeal
The front of the house is the first impression buyers get, so you must make a great one.
What to Focus On:
- Landscaping: Trim bushes, mow the lawn, and add colorful plants.
- Exterior Cleaning: Power wash the siding, clean the windows, and repaint the front door if needed.
- Welcoming Touches: Add a welcome mat, potted plants, and outdoor lighting.
How Brokers Can Help:
- Recommend local landscapers or handymen to handle exterior improvements.
- Share before-and-after photos to show the impact of curb appeal.
2. Keep It Simple and Neutral
When it comes to staging, less is more. A cluttered space can overwhelm buyers and make it harder for them to envision themselves living there.
What to Focus On:
- Declutter: Remove personal items and excess furniture.
- Neutral Colors: Use neutral tones for walls, furniture, and decor to appeal to a wider audience.
- Key Pieces: Focus on essential furniture like a couch, dining table, and beds.
How Brokers Can Help:
3. Let There Be Light
Good lighting can make a space feel larger, brighter, and more inviting.
What to Focus On:
- Natural Light: Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible.
- Artificial Lighting: Add lamps, recessed lighting, or pendant lights to brighten dark areas.
- Highlight Features: Use lighting to showcase key renovations, like a new kitchen backsplash or a modern bathroom.
How Brokers Can Help:
- Recommend affordable lighting solutions that fit your clients’ budget.
- Share staging tips on how to use lighting to highlight the property’s best features.
4. Use the Rule of Three
The rule of three is a design principle that creates balance and visual interest.
What to Focus On:
- Groupings: Arrange decor in groups of three, such as throw pillows, vases, or artwork.
- Focal Points: Use groupings to draw attention to key areas, like a fireplace or a dining table.
How Brokers Can Help:
- Provide examples of how to apply the rule of three in different rooms.
- Share staging checklists to help your clients stay organized.
5. Cleanliness is Non-Negotiable
A clean home signals to buyers that the property has been well-maintained and is move-in ready.
What to Focus On:
- Deep Cleaning: Scrub floors, polish fixtures, and clean windows.
- Odor Control: Eliminate any unpleasant smells and add subtle scents like vanilla or lavender.
How Brokers Can Help:
- Recommend professional cleaning services to ensure the property is spotless.
- Share tips on how to maintain cleanliness during showings.
6. Appeal to the Senses
Staging isn’t just about visuals—it’s about creating a multi-sensory experience for buyers.
What to Focus On:
- Scent: Use diffusers or bake cookies before showings to create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Sound: Play soft background music to make the space feel more inviting.
- Touch: Add cozy throws and pillows to make the space feel comfortable.
How Brokers Can Help:
- Provide a list of sensory staging ideas to enhance the buyer experience.
- Share feedback from past clients on what worked well.
7. Know Your Target Buyer
Understanding your target buyer is key to effective staging. Tailor the staging to appeal to their preferences and lifestyle.
What to Focus On:
- Young Professionals: Use a modern aesthetic with sleek furniture and tech-friendly features.
- Families: Highlight functionality with play areas, storage solutions, and durable materials.
- Empty Nesters: Emphasize luxury and comfort with high-end finishes and cozy spaces.
How Brokers Can Help:
- Conduct market research to identify the ideal buyer for the property.
- Share staging tips tailored to different buyer demographics.
8. Invest in Professional Photography
High-quality images are a necessity for online listings, where most of your buyers begin.
What to Focus On:
- Lighting: Use natural light to capture the property’s best features.
- Angles: Highlight key areas like the kitchen, living room, and master bedroom.
- Editing: Use professional editing to enhance the photos without misrepresenting the property.
How Brokers Can Help:
- Recommend professional photographers who specialize in real estate.
- Share examples of well-staged properties with high-quality photos.
Why Partner with RCN Capital for Fix-and-Flip Financing?
At RCN Capital, we know the special needs of real estate investors—and the brokers that serve them. Here's why brokers prefer to work with us:
- Flexible Programs: From fix-and-flip financing to long-term rental funding, we provide solutions to suit your client's requirements.
- Fast Closings: We can close loans in as few as 10 business days, helping your clients move quickly on opportunities.
- Broker-Friendly: We value our relationships with brokers and offer competitive commissions, fast approvals, and dedicated support.
Whether your clients are flipping houses, acquiring distressed properties, or bridging gaps in financing, RCN Capital has the solutions they need to succeed.
Ready to take your brokerage to the next level? Connect with us today to discuss our real estate financing solutions and how we can help you grow your business.