Why should I put money into a house I won't be living in?
Based on return, it is an excellent investment.  The concept of move-in condition is very appealing to buyers in this market.  Painting, cleaning, repairing – all go to a buyer’s perception of overall maintenance of the home and, in the long rug, their cost to update it.  Anything you can do to appeal to the largest number of buyers, right away, is money well spent.

Does staging guarantee the house will sell?
Many factors influence the sales price and how quickly the property will sell.  In addition to the property showing its best, market condition, price and time of the year play important roles in the sale.  With staging, you can know that you did everything possible to get the highest price.

What if my house is already on the market – is it too late to stage?
No.   Your agent will most likely take the house off the market for a short time while the staging is taking place and then roll out a fresh new look.

Can’t buyers use their imagination?
Buyers have a lot on their minds.  A home purchase is among the largest commitments in one’s financial life and speaks volumes about who we are.  Center Stage’s goal is to make it easy for buyers to fall in love with the home; to see themselves living a beautiful and desirable life by purchasing the home; to make them want it NOW.

What does staging cost?
It really depends on what is needed.  For interior staging and furnishings, a good rule of thumb is $4.50 - $5.50/sq. ft. 

OK, you’ve convinced me.  Why should I use Center Stage?
Experience.  We have staged homes in San Francisco and the Bay Area since 1998, in markets of all types.  Through our long term relationships with the very best agents in the area, Center Stage is able to pinpoint your buyer, and present the property in the most aggressive and appealing light. 

Professionalism.  Selling your home is stressful.  Our goal is to make it as smooth and effortless for you as possible.  We are on time, on budget and guarantee our installation dates. 

We’re Really Good and We Love What We Do.  Center Stage’s designers are each successful in their own right, working in the areas finest homes to create beautiful interiors.  We are on the beat of changing trends in style and palettes and present schemes that are both current and sophisticated. 

How do I begin?
Call for a consultation.  This is when we meet with you or your agent to see the home and discuss the marketing needs. It takes about 30 minutes and we discuss the target buyer, what types of preparation the home needs (painting, carpet cleaning, etc.) and decide what pieces of furniture will be needed.

You’ve made great suggestions. Now what?
At the consultation, we will leave you with a “to do” list for cosmetic upgrades which will make your home more appealing to buyers and brokers before the staging takes place, as well as a wealth of vendor resources. If it is overwhelming to complete the work on your own, you may hire us to complete the work. This service includes overseeing projects from detailed cleaning to painting and carpet replacement.

How long does the staging take?
Planning, measuring and designing take a 1-2 days and the actual installation of the furnishings takes 1-2 days, depending on the size of the property.

How long does the staging remain in place?
The initial period is two months, which is usually just enough time to close escrow. Even though you may “go into contract” sooner, it is wise to keep the property staged until the conditions are removed so that it is just as appealing to your buyer’s family, appraiser, designer, etc. 

Where does the furniture come from?
Center Stage’s warehouse.  We have a huge warehouse, filled to the rafters with everything necessary to create the look we want.  We strive to secure the most current and stylish pieces for our inventory, which is constantly being updated. 

Do I have to stage the entire home?
We always recommend staging completely for a smooth and viewing experience for the buyer. If not, focus on the main rooms; entry, living room, dining room, kitchen, master bedroom and master bath.