In today’s digital age, virtual staging has emerged as a game-changer in the real estate industry. Gone are the days of relying solely on traditional staging techniques to showcase a property’s potential. Traditional staging is great for creating an inviting atmosphere, especially in large homes with spacious, empty rooms. However, it can get expensive and time consuming. With virtual staging, you eliminate the expense of renting or purchasing furniture and the headache that comes with coordinating the delivery. So, what is virtual staging?
Virtual staging is a process where interior designers or real estate professionals use advanced software to digitally furnish and decorate empty or sparsely furnished rooms. By adding virtual furniture, decor, and accessories, the software creates realistic and visually appealing images that give potential buyers a clear vision of how the space could be utilized. The process allows for easy customization and experimentation. With digital design tools, different furniture styles, colors, and layouts can be tested to find the most appealing option for the target market. Buyers are then able to envision the potential of a space by showcasing different room layouts, highlighting architectural features, and suggesting design possibilities that may not be immediately apparent in an empty or poorly furnished room.
The process starts with taking high-quality photos of the empty or sparsely furnished rooms using professional photography equipment. These images serve as the foundation for the virtual staging process. From there, experienced virtual stagers review the images and evaluate the size, layout, architectural features, and lighting conditions of each room. This assessment helps determine the best approach for staging the space digitally. Based on the assessment, the stagers will develop a plan to enhance the room’s aesthetics and functionality. They consider the target market, style preferences, and the overall desired look and feel of the staged space.
For the furniture and décor selections, the stager will utilize extensive libraries of furniture, decor items, and accessories within specialized software programs. They carefully select pieces that complement the room’s style, scale, and architectural elements. Using advanced software, they will then digitally place the selected furniture and decor items into the photographs, ensuring that the scale, perspective, and lighting of the virtual elements align with the room’s dimensions and natural lighting.
From here, the virtual staging company or professional shares the staged images with the client for review and feedback. The client can provide input, request modifications, or express preferences to ensure the virtual staging aligns with their vision and goals. Once the virtual staging is approved, the final images are delivered to the client in a format suitable for online listings, brochures, or other marketing materials.
It’s important to note that virtual staging should be transparently disclosed to potential buyers, clearly indicating that the images are digitally enhanced representations of the space. This helps manage expectations and ensures transparency throughout the real estate transaction process. You should also know that not all spaces may benefit from virtual staging. If you are considering it, get with your REALTOR® and allow them to advise you on this decision based on their knowledge and expertise. May this Father’s Day be filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with the incredible fathers in our lives. Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads out there!
Eve Leombruno, 2023 MBOR President
