BTN News: In a competitive real estate market like Spain, where nearly 700,000 second-hand homes are on sale, standing out is crucial. Many of these homes are old, poorly maintained, and lack natural light. To sell these properties quickly—often within a month—without reducing the price, or even increasing it, a fresh approach is needed. This is where home staging services in Spain come in. Home staging is a powerful tool to make your property appealing to potential buyers. By transforming your space with professional cleaning, organizing, repairing, and decorating, home staging experts create an inviting environment that captures buyers’ imaginations. This article explores the benefits of home staging, why it is gaining popularity in Spain, and how it can be a game-changer in selling your property.
What is Home Staging?
Home staging is a specialized service that involves preparing a property for sale by enhancing its appearance to attract more buyers. It goes beyond simply cleaning or decluttering; it involves making strategic decisions about furniture placement, color schemes, and décor. The goal is to present a house in the best possible light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes it easy for potential buyers to imagine themselves living there.
In Spain, the home staging market has been growing rapidly, with more homeowners and real estate agents recognizing its value. According to Mónica Blanco, a leading expert in the field, home staging in Spain has “evolved significantly” since its introduction 15 years ago. Blanco, who heads the Spanish delegation of the European Association of Professional Home Staging, notes that this service is not about “just throwing in a blanket, a couple of cushions, and some cardboard furniture.” It requires a thorough study of the property and a carefully managed process to help homeowners understand that “emptying their house is the first step toward moving to their new home.”
Why Home Staging Services in Spain are Growing Rapidly
The popularity of home staging services in Spain is on the rise, and for a good reason. Property developers, real estate agents, and even investment funds are recognizing its effectiveness. Susana Mateo, founder of SM Real Estate, calls home staging a “revolution” in the property market that is helping to sell thousands of stalled properties. The key to its success? Today’s younger buyers want to visualize their future in the property with just one glance.
The Power of Visual Appeal: The First Impression Matters
A well-staged home makes a powerful first impression, which is often the only chance to captivate a potential buyer. “We want to stop selling ugly houses,” says Beatriz Arroyo, a stager and CEO of Ponle Alma a Tu Casa. “You only have one chance to make a first impression, and that’s what sells.” The influence of TV shows like “Property Brothers” and “Love It or List It” has also played a significant role in highlighting the benefits of home staging services worldwide.
Home Staging for Different Types of Clients
Home staging in Spain is not limited to luxury homes or high-end clients. It caters to various budgets and property types. If a homeowner is handy and willing to give their property to an agency exclusively, they might receive free consultation and assistance in buying furniture. If not, this consulting service can range between 200 and 400 euros. For those with more extensive needs, such as furnishing an empty property, the costs can range from 800 euros for a 60-square-meter flat to over 2,100 euros for larger spaces.
According to Beatriz Arroyo, investing in home staging should be seen as a strategic move, not a cost. “The price of home staging is not an expense; it is an investment that will be recovered many times over,” she explains. Typically, the cost of staging ranges from 0.5% to 1% of the property’s selling price. And the results? A well-staged home can sell in less than 30 days, often at a price of 5% to 20% above the average for the area.
The Financial Benefits of Home Staging
Home staging services in Spain offer significant financial benefits. With an investment of 0.5% to 1% of the selling price, homeowners can potentially sell their property for 5% to 20% more than the asking price. A clean, well-organized, and beautifully staged home creates an emotional connection with buyers, reducing the chances of price negotiations. Moreover, the faster a property sells, the lower the costs related to holding onto the property, such as mortgage payments, taxes, and maintenance fees.
Understanding the Home Staging Process
The home staging process involves several steps and requires a range of professionals, from painters and electricians to decorators and photographers. After assessing the property, the staging team decides on the necessary changes to enhance the home’s appeal. This may involve decluttering, repainting, or replacing outdated furniture with modern, neutral pieces that appeal to a broad audience. The goal is to make the space look larger, brighter, and more inviting.
High-quality photographs and videos are essential, as these are often the first things potential buyers see on real estate platforms. If these visuals fail to capture the beauty of the staged home, the entire investment in staging could be wasted.
Why Homeowners and Real Estate Agents are Embracing Home Staging
Real estate agents and homeowners are increasingly embracing home staging services in Spain. Ángel Ferrando, president of the Home Staging Association Spain (AHSE), estimates that around 9% of homeowners currently use these services. Most users are aged between 30 and 50, with a medium to high economic and cultural level. Ferrando argues that expanding awareness of home staging benefits is crucial. “The challenge is to make it more accessible to property owners and help them understand that investing in staging will prevent buyers from demanding a price reduction for renovations and could even increase their property’s value.”
Where to Find Home Staging Services in Spain
If you are looking for home staging services in Spain, you have several options. From large companies to small freelance professionals, the market is expanding. Whether your goal is to sell, rent for tourism, or create a comfortable shared living space, there are solutions tailored to your needs and budget. Popular options for budget-friendly furniture include Ikea, Leroy Merlin, Maisons du Monde, and more specialized stores for professionals like Item or Ixia.
Conclusion: Why Home Staging is a Smart Investment in Spain
Home staging services in Spain have become an essential tool for anyone looking to sell their property quickly and at a higher price. By investing in a professional staging service, homeowners can significantly enhance their property’s appeal, attract more potential buyers, and ultimately sell their homes faster. The process involves more than just aesthetics; it is about creating a vision that buyers can connect with. With home staging, you are not just selling a property—you are selling a lifestyle.
Home staging is a powerful tool to sell your home quickly and at a premium. So, if you’re planning to put your home on the market, consider using home staging services in Spain to maximize your chances of success.
