Virtual staging has become an essential tool for real estate professionals to market properties effectively. By virtually furnishing empty homes, potential buyers can envision living in the space. However, some common mistakes made during the virtual staging process can undermine the effect. Let’s dive into five common virtual staging pitfalls and how to avoid them, ensuring your staging efforts shine.
1. Scaling Furniture Incorrectly
One of the biggest mistakes is using furniture that seems unrealistic for the size of the rooms. All pieces must be correctly scaled so they appear like a natural fit. The living room couch, for example, should only dominate some of the area. Take accurate room measurements and size furniture accordingly. Proportion is key to avoiding a staged space that looks artificial.
2. Poor Furniture Placement Clutters the Flow
Another frequent misstep is jamming too many decor items into a room, leaving no comfortable pathways. When arranging sofas and chairs, define a conversation area and make sure walking paths are clear. Balance is important—empty walls or lone furnishings can make a space feel incomplete, while overcrowding makes navigation difficult. Find that sweet spot for a cohesive, uncluttered appearance.
3. Art Placement is Tricky But Important
Get the artwork sizing and positioning just right to complement the room without overwhelming it. A gigantic abstract painting hovering over a petite end table will distort the scale. Instead, opt for framed pieces that cover roughly 2/3 of the wall space and position at eye level to balance with other furnishing angles. Proper artwork adds visual appeal without becoming the sole focal point.
4. Area Rugs are Multipurpose But Misused
When done correctly, rugs define spaces and unify room aesthetics. However, the wrong size or placement can disrupt the flow. Major mistakes involve too small rugs to anchor furnishings or block walkways. Go big enough to tie a seating arrangement together but not so large as to eat up the entire floor space. Strategic rug placement is an underutilized staging tool.
5. Transparency Builds Trust With Home Shoppers
While virtual staging helps buyers imagine living in a home, altering structural aspects or exaggerating square footage crosses an ethical line. Maintain transparency – disclose all digitally enhanced elements so viewing expectations align with reality. Emphasize the property’s true features to develop trust. An honest virtual experience leads to smoother in-person tours and sale negotiations.
With careful attention to detail regarding furniture scale, arrangement, artwork curation, and rug placement, realtors can create compelling, virtually staged spaces. Let Endesign help you out! Whether you are a real estate professional or an interior designer, EnDesign provides an effective solution that costs significantly less than conventional staging. Contact us to learn more!