“Home Sellers Turn to Live-In House Stagers”

Source: WRA REALTOR® Newswire Weekly – Agent Edition – 5/15/09
By: Arizona Republic (05/11/09) Morrison, Kara G.

In many markets, sellers are turning to live-in house stagers to keep their homes in good condition so that they can be shown to buyers almost immediately. These live-in stagers bring in nice furnishings, keep the place clean, carry renter’s insurance and pay rental fees and a portion of the utility bills. However, they must be prepared to relocate quickly when a buyer is found. Experts say live-in stagers might be individuals looking for a short-term rental because they are new to the area, or they could be someone who needs a place to stay temporarily due to divorce, foreclosure or other circumstances. Homes with live-in stagers often sell for more money than vacant dwellings, and sellers do not need to pay someone to take care of the property, worry about break-ins or pay higher insurance rates for an unoccupied residence. Companies that pair sellers with live-in stagers are compensated through the monthly fees paid by the renters or a fee paid by the seller at closing.