Common Questions

Although the Interior Redesign and Home Staging industry has been around for quite some time, not everyone is familiar with the services that we provide.  We hope you can find the answers to some of your questions.  If your question is not listed, please feel free to contact us.  We will be happy to answer any that you might have.

Who is Time To Stage?

Time to Stage is owned and operated by Joan Staker of Arlington Hts., IL.  Joan has always had a deep passion for pleasing, comfortable spaces.  While a stay at home mom, and through many moves, her enthusiasm for creating was put to good use.  It was fun and challenging to "use what we owned" in so many different homes.  A new accessory or two might have been added, to make an entirely fresh look for as little cost as possible.  Family and friends' homes benefited from her need to continually create, revamp and update spaces.  She discovered that this natural ability was what she wanted to do professionally, and it made sense with  Joan's Textiles & Clothing/Merchandising and customer service background.  She obtained certification as a Professional Interior Redesigner and Home Stager.  Joan is a member of the Society of Decorating Professionals and RESA.  A graduate of the Staging and Redesign Academy, she feels continued education is a necessity.   She prides herself on offering affordable services that homeowners can enjoy for moving or improving where they are.

Recently, Ann McCollum, also a trained stager and redesigner, joined Time to Stage.  Her love of beautiful spaces, keen eye and desire to please clients enhance Time to Stage services.

What is Staging?

Staging is a process used to enhance the appeal of a house when putting it on the market.  Staging involves removing anything that makes the house too individualized, while preserving its warmth and character.  The house should look ready for buyers to move in, NOW.  Because the greatest percentage of buyers preview houses online, curb appeal in photos increases your chances of getting your property on their list of "must sees."
 

Why do I need to stage my house before I put it on the market?
 

Staging can be done at any time, but it is most beneficial before photographs and Realtor tours. A property that engages the viewers’ senses is remembered, because it prompts a positive response. The first few days on the Realty market are the most critical, because of heightened interest in the newly listed property. Why not capitalize on your opportunity to make a lasting impression?  Emphasize positive features.  Make the house a standout by Staging it to show its best attributes.  A refreshed, updated, clean property has a competitive edge, because its perceived value is higher than others in the same category.

What can I expect to pay?

Cost varies depending on whether the house is occupied or empty, and the level of staging and improvements required.  If the work is done by Time To Stage, an occupied house starts around $375.  Fees for a vacant house staging are determined by the amount of furniture and accessories added.  Furnishing a vacant house with vignettes, a few rooms of furniture or, the entire house, prompts buyers to make an emotional connection.  High-end staging may cost thousands, but the investment may prevent costly price reductions and continuous carrying fees.  The Staging investment still costs less than your first price reduction.  Homeowners can save money by doing a thorough pre-Staging cleaning and editing (pre-pack extras for move).  In June, 2006, HomeGain.com, reported the average Staging investment for this area to be $579.  The Return on Investment averaging 276%.

When is payment due, and what forms of payment do you accept?

Payment is due at the conclusion of the service.  Payment is in the form of cash or check.  At times, a deposit for certain services might be necessary.

Should I hire a professional?

There are a number of benefits to hiring a professional.  You and your Stager have the same goal: to sell your house in the least amount of time and for the best price. A professional, who does not have the emotional attachment you have, assists you in achieving that goal faster, by looking at the house through the eyes of the choosiest buyers. The professional's advice prepares you to spend improvement dollars wisely, for the greatest impact. A Staging Consultation provides sellers with a detailed checklist, if they choose to make improvements themselves.  Moving stress is alleviated, because you know the house is ready to show at its best, and you have already done much of the moving work.
 

 If the purpose of Staging is to appeal to many people, what is the purpose of the Redesign  service you offer?

Redesign is a fun, cost-effective way to redecorate, which uses what you own.  We'll talk about what the requirements of the space are, what you love, and what don't.  We want to know what your needs are, so that we can delight you with a transformation that makes you happy and proud of your surroundings.  Redesign is cost-effective, because you already have the furniture and accessories. We love designing rooms to dazzle, by using what you own in sometimes unexpected, but functional and surprising ways.  We may give you a wish list for a few additions, but the redesign process means that we use the treasures you have accumulated.  They  give us insight in to what makes you you.  Our ultimate purpose is to give you a space that is individualized, and unique to you.

Email:  joan@timetostage.com

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