In a home market that has seen its share of downturns, sellers are looking to get the maximum amount possible out of their properties.
The condition of the home plays a major role in the closing price.
A new trend that we are starting to see is the use of hometenders, or "live in stagers".
Many homeowners have been faced with the burden of having to make a sudden move out of state, and leave the sale of their home to a real estate agent.
Real estate agents attempt to sell the property "as is".
Bringing in hometender, not only manages your residence's landscape needs; they also bring in their own furniture and stage the property to look like a model home.
Another benefit to the seller is that because the property is not empty or abandoned your homeowners insurance will not go up.
Live in stagers purchase renters insurance that cover their property, and removes that liability from your insurance company.
It is widely known that an empty or abandoned property will generally sell for a lot less than one that is being lived in, and carefully managed.
An additional concern of trying to sell a home that is empty is that the home is susceptible to costly damages due to vandalism, or squatters.
Having professional live-in your home is another way of protecting your investment.
Staging companies hire live-ins after carefully screening them.
The company provides all of the furniture and in most cases hires an interior designer to add the finishing touches to the property.
The staging company makes their money by charging the live in stagers a reduced renter's rate.
Most companies require staging contract of at least 4 months.
The average price of most staged homes range from $200,000 and up.