Should You set the Table for Selling Your Home?

When it comes to staging a home, the presentation is everything. Many people wonder if they should set the table as part of the staging process. While a nicely set table can create a welcoming ambiance, it can also take the focus away from what you’re really trying to sell – the space itself. Here’s why I suggest avoiding table settings during the staging process:

A table setting can distract from the home’s features – If your table setting is too elaborate, it could distract buyers from noticing the beautiful kitchen countertops or impressive dining room chandelier.

It can make the space appear smaller – A table with chairs takes up a lot of space. By keeping tables bare, you can open up the room, making it appear larger, which is a must for many potential buyers.

It may be difficult to maintain – A staged home is often open for people to walk through, which means your table setting may get messy or moved around. Avoid the hassle and stick to the basics.

Overall, while a set table can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, it’s best to keep your table bare to focus on the key selling features of your home. Remember, you’re not selling your furniture, you’re selling your house!

Should You Set the Table When Staging a Home?

The Purpose of Staging a Home

Staging a home is the process of preparing a property for sale by making it look appealing to potential buyers. The goal of staging is to make the home look as spacious, bright, and inviting as possible to help sell the property faster and at a higher price. Staging is especially important when selling a home as it helps the buyers envision themselves living in the space. When staging a dining room, many people focus on setting up the table with plates, glasses, and cutlery, thinking that it will add a homely touch to the space. However, this may not always be the best idea.

The Drawbacks of Setting Up the Table

There are several drawbacks to setting up the table when staging a home. The biggest issue is that it can make the room look cluttered and small. Setting up the table limits the amount of space available in the room, making it harder for potential buyers to imagine themselves using the dining area for their own purposes. Additionally, it can make the room look dated or give the impression that the table and chairs are the main focus, rather than the space itself. Another potential issue is that a set table can be a distraction for potential buyers. Instead of focusing on the room and its features, buyers may be drawn to the table and start imagining what they would cook for dinner or whether they like the style of the dishes on display. This can take away from the purpose of staging, which is to create an inviting and appealing space that buyers can picture themselves living in.

The Importance of Highlighting the Space

The key to staging a home is to highlight the space, not the furniture. Empty or sparsely furnished rooms can look cold and uninviting, but overcrowded rooms can appear cluttered and cramped. The aim is to create a balance between furniture and space, so that potential buyers can easily picture themselves living in the property. In the case of the dining room, this means focusing on the size of the room and the potential uses for the space. Rather than setting up the table, consider showcasing the dining area as a versatile space that can be used for family meals, entertaining guests, or even as a home office.

Alternatives to Setting Up the Table

So, if setting up the table is not the best option, what should you do to stage the room effectively? Here are some alternatives to setting a table: 1. Use décor to create a focal point: Place a vase of fresh flowers or a decorative bowl on the table to create a focal point that draws the eye. 2. Highlight the dining area: Use lighting or a rug to highlight the dining area and create a sense of separation from the rest of the room. 3. Showcase the size and versatility of the space: If the room is large, add a buffet or sideboard to emphasize the potential for entertaining. If the room is smaller, create a cozy nook for intimate meals.

Tips for Keeping the Attention on the Space

When staging a dining room, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure that the attention stays on the space and not the décor: 1. Declutter: Remove any unnecessary or bulky furniture to create a sense of spaciousness. 2. Let in natural light: Natural light makes a room look brighter and more inviting, so open the curtains or blinds to let in sunlight. 3. Use neutral colors: Neutral colors like white, beige, or pale gray can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the space.

Creative Ways to Showcase the Dining Area

There are many creative ways to showcase a dining area when staging a home: 1. Add artwork: Hang a painting or other artwork on the wall to create a focal point. 2. Create a dramatic lighting display: Hang a chandelier or pendant light over the table to create a dramatic lighting display. 3. Stage a mock dinner party: Set up a mock dinner party in a nearby room to show potential buyers the potential for entertaining.

Addressing Common Misconceptions about Home Staging

Home staging is a complex and multifaceted process, and there are several misconceptions that need to be addressed: 1. Staging is only for high-end homes: Staging is beneficial for all types of homes, regardless of price point. 2. Staging is expensive: Staging can actually save you money by helping to sell your home faster and at a higher price. 3. DIY staging is just as good as professional staging: While DIY staging can be effective, professional staging can take your home to the next level and help it sell faster. In conclusion, when it comes to staging a home, it’s important to keep the attention on the space and not the furniture. While setting up a table may add a homely touch, it can also make the room look cluttered and take away from the purpose of staging. Instead, focus on showcasing the size and versatility of the dining space, using décor and lighting to create a focal point, and keeping the room neutral and uncluttered. With these tips, you can create an inviting and appealing dining space that will help your home sell faster and at a higher price.