Staging for the Savvy Buyer

Showhomes of the Main Line goes beyond rearranging furniture.

After several slow years, the local real-estate market is finally rebounding. Spring sales were swift, which is good news for a lot of people—not least, home stagers. 

Sensing an increasing need, Allyson Piccolomini and Monica Estes launched Showhomes of the Main Line this past March. “Buyers want to have that ‘wow’ moment when they walk into a home,” says Piccolomini. “The buyer is also savvier now, so you have to step it up when you’re showing your home. It needs to look 100 percent ready to move in.”

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The business was a logical fit for the two budding entrepreneurs: Piccolomini has a background in interior design, Estes in real estate. They specialize in repurposing and rearranging clients’ existing furnishings to look like those in a model home. They can also stage empty houses, using furniture and accessories from their own inventory.

After the staging is done, the company also offers a special “Home Manager” program. Piccolomini hires a live-in professional to keep an unoccupied house in top condition for showings. “It gives owners peace of mind knowing that a trusted person is there, taking care of their property,” she says.

Piccolomini has three tips for sellers readying their homes for a sale. “First, depersonalize, declutter and organize,” she says. “Buyers are going to be looking at every space.” 

That means paying attention to every detail-—even ones that may seem inconsequential, like having closet hangers facing the same way.

Piccolomini also recommends neutralizing all the spaces in the house with fresh paint. This makes it easier for buyers to visualize their belongings there. “You can use accessories to brighten up the house,” she says. 

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And don’t forget about curb appeal. “Make sure the first look is impressive,” she says. “It can be as simple as painting your front door. It can really make a world of difference.” Visit www.showhomesmainline.com

Our Best of the Main Line Nomination Ballot is open through January 8!