1. If we need to pack up and store some of our belongings, can you take care of that for us?

No, we don't do any packing of the homeowner's belongings, but the detailed workplan we provide following the initial consultation guides the homeowner whether we are retained to do the staging or not.  Our clients find this part of our service immensely helpful -- it gives them a starting point and a checklist of steps to follow, and keeps costs down by allowing them to do the front-end work.  Many of our clients rent off-site storage for the period of time their home is on the market.  

2.  What can we expect from an S&H estimate?

We will give you a quote for estimated labour costs based on the number of rooms that require staging.  We include two lines for rentals: a bulk fee for accessories and an itemized quote for large furnishings.  Accessories include items such as lamps, toss pillows, throws, bowls and other decorative accents, small area rugs, art, mirrors, etc..  Where larger furniture rentals are required (eg., beds, headboards, tables, chairs, sofas), we provide an itemized list so the homeowner can budget appropriately.  

3.  How much can I expect to spend on home staging?

Most of our clients find that budgeting 0.5-1% of their anticipated asking price is reasonable.  We always work within our clients’ budgets to make sure they get the “most bang for their buck”.

4.  How long does it take to stage a home?

It will depend on how much work we need to do.  Generally speaking, if the homeowner has prepared the house according to the detailed workplan, it will take approximately 5-8 hours. Ideally, you will be out of your home for the day, so when you return you will see your home through the eyes of the your target audience – your home’s potential buyers.

5.  How long does the home remain “staged”?

All items are rented to you for the period of time from the staging date until the home is sold, for a maximum of 1 month.  If the home sells before the end of that month, rentals will be removed within a week of sale or as arranged by the homeowner and S&H.  There are no refunds for rentals of less than 1 month.  If furniture and accessories are still required beyond the 1 month period, an additional pro-rated rental fee will be charged.

6.  We love what you did for us -- can we hire you to give us advice for our new home?

Absolutely – many of our clients have hired us to provide them with advice on paint colours, furniture layout, lighting and accessories when they move to their new home.   Please feel free to inquire about our rates. 

7.  What if something gets damaged during the staging process?

S&H will take utmost care while in our client’s homes, and will stage your home in accordance with detailed workplan.  The client should expect that some reasonable wear and tear may occur as a result of hanging art and/or mirrors, relocating furnishings, etc..  However, in the event that S&H causes any unforeseen or unusual damage to our client’s property, we will absolutely make arrangements to repair and/or replace as necessary.  Any damage that occurs to rented furnishings and/or accessories while in the client’s home and under the client’s care will be assessed by S&H, and the client will be responsible for repair or replacement. 

8.  When do we pay you?

A deposit of 50% of the estimated fee is due prior to staging; the remainder is  due on staging day.

9.  We really love that accessory/piece of furniture/area rug (etc.) you used – can we buy it from you?

Of course – most items we have in our inventory are available for sale – just ask and we will provide a quote.