The 2025 National Association of REALTORS® Profile of Home Staging is here—and it's packed with data and insights that highlight the power and value of what we do as professional home stagers!   Here are some key takeaways you can use to inspire, educate, and grow: Design matters more than price! "Sellers’ agents who used a staging service said that the quality of the design (63%) and the price of the staging service (51%) were the most important factors when choosing a company to work with." This is incredibly encouraging. It shows that agents are prioritizing design over cost! So, the next time you’re worried your proposal might be "too high,"  remember this stat. If your design quality stands out, the value will speak for itself! Let's think of our competition as colleagues! "Sellers’ agents who used a staging service typically received a median of two bids before choosing a company to work with." Yes, your fellow stagers may be your competitors, but they're also your colleagues and partners in making staging the industry standard. If you don’t yet know the other stagers in your area, this is your sign to connect! Reach out to us about starting an IAHSP® community chapter in your area! Know your worth "The median dollar value spent when using a staging service was $1,500, compared to $500 when the sellers’ agent personally staged the home." While $1,500 may sound low, remember " median " isn't the same as " average ." Median simply means the middle value, unaffected by outliers on either end. So, don't underprice your services based on this number. There’s a wide range in the market, and your value may sit well above that middle point. Huge opportunities for growth 21% of sellers’ agents said they staged all sellers’ homes prior to listing them for sale. 10%  noted that they only staged homes that were difficult to sell. 51%  of sellers’ agents stated that they did not stage homes before listing them for sale, but suggested that the seller declutter or fix property faults." These numbers might seem low at first glance, but they actually reveal a huge opportunity for growth in our industry. Over half of agents aren’t using professional staging...yet! That means more conversations to be had, more value to demonstrate, and more business to earn. The potential is actually exciting! Staging adds real dollar value "When staging a home, 19% of sellers’ agents reported an increase of one percent to five percent of the dollar value offered by buyers in comparison to similar homes. 10% of respondents stated that staging a home increased the dollar value offered for the home between six and 10 percent." These stats are pure gold for your social media, marketing decks, broker presentations, and more. Don’t just tell...show your clients that staging gets results. It's especially helpful to remind your agents that these numbers come from their professional organization.  Take some time to dive into the full 2025 NAR Profile of Home Staging and think about how you can use it to: Educate your agents and clients Inspire your team Refine your services Expand your reach Let’s continue to elevate our industry together! IAHSP 2025 Home Staging Stats  Our Home Staging Industry Stats reflect the accurate pricing and data of the impact professional Home Stagers make for the real estate industry.    These stats are from our industry professionals, including the average pricing for staging, average and luxury priced properties, consultations, and occupied staging.  If you have not gotten your copy of the IAHSP® 2025 Home Staging Stats yet, do it today!

IAHSP is home to the ORIGINAL Home Staging Calculator Tool that we created in 2005. This tool helps you demonstrate the ROSI - Return on Staging Investment - for staging versus not staging. It ensures your customers understand the value you bring with your services. The calculator is updated for TODAY'S market based on the current statistics for our industry. How to Use the Home Staging Calculator Tool Using the Home Staging Calculator Tool is simple. Follow these three easy steps: Visit www.stagingcalculator.com . COPY and PASTE the Staging Calculator Tool into YOUR OWN SPREADSHEET. This allows you to customize it for your clients. The formatting is locked for elements that cannot be changed, but you can adjust the Staging Calculator with the client's monthly mortgage, the Staging investment for your services, probable price reductions based on Days on Market (DOM) if they do not stage, and the final ROI. After entering your numbers, you can "print-screen" from your laptop. Alternatively, take a screenshot from your mobile device and crop it to create an image of the spreadsheet content. Understanding the Financial Impact of Staging Remember to factor in the POTENTIAL PRICE REDUCTIONS based on current market data. These reductions typically range from 5-10% of the list price. If a property is NOT staged, it will likely have a lower starting list price. Right from the start, sellers LOSE MONEY by not staging. They cannot list at the "Staged List Price," which statistically is 6.4% on average HIGHER than a non-staged property. The Home Staging Statistics released by IAHSP this year indicate that properties that are professionally staged sell for 1-18% MORE. In fact, 69% of these properties sell for 4-18% over the list price! The Speed of Sale: Staged vs. Non-Staged Properties The statistics report also highlights a significant reduction in Days on Market (DOM). Staged properties sell 2-5 times FASTER than their non-staged competition. This speed can be crucial in a competitive market. Accessing the Latest Industry Insights Download your copy of the 2025 Home Staging Industry Statistics Report . This report is provided at no charge to IAHSP Members who are current in their membership. You can also purchase the comprehensive report and infographics for $20 in the IAHSP store.

Understanding Luxury Staging Trends Luxury staging is not just about filling a space with beautiful items. It’s about creating an atmosphere that resonates with potential buyers. Here are three key trends shaping the luxury staging landscape today. 1. Luxury Minimalism Is In "Luxury buyers don’t want clutter. They want calm. Focus on fewer, high-quality pieces that feel effortless, not overstyled." Today’s buyers aren’t impressed by rooms packed with furniture or endless decorative accents. Instead, they’re drawn to space, serenity, and intention . This movement toward luxury minimalism  is all about creating room to breathe—both visually and emotionally. Think curated layouts, sculptural statement pieces, and negative space that allows each element to shine. ✔️ Staging Tips: Use fewer but better pieces: a custom console table, an iconic chair, or a hand-thrown ceramic vase. Embrace neutral palettes that feel warm, not stark—soft whites, taupes, sand tones. Edit ruthlessly. If it doesn’t add calm or elevate the space, it doesn’t belong. Minimalism in luxury staging isn't about making a home feel empty—it’s about making it feel intentional and emotionally spacious . 2. Quiet Luxury Finishes Are Dominating "Think creamy stone, brushed brass, rich woods, boucle upholstery. Not flashy but elevated. Subtle = sophisticated." We’ve entered the era of quiet luxury , where opulence is expressed through craftsmanship and materiality—not logos or glitz. In staging, this translates to finishes and textures that whisper wealth , rather than scream it. Buyers in the luxury market today can spot authenticity instantly. They’re looking for homes that feel custom, tactile, and timeless. 🔥 On-Trend Materials to Incorporate: Creamy travertine or marble  countertops and coffee tables Brushed brass  or aged bronze fixtures European oak flooring  with matte finishes Bouclé, mohair, or cashmere-blend upholstery Hand-rubbed wood accents  with visible grain Subtle details like these evoke a feeling of craftsmanship and quality. In a market where emotional connection drives sales, subtle sophistication is the new status symbol. 3. Sensory Design Sells "It’s not just how a room looks—it’s how it feels. Soft textures, sculptural shapes, and ambient lighting evoke emotional connection (and justify higher price points)." If minimalism and quiet finishes set the visual tone, sensory design is what brings the space to life. Luxury staging today is multisensory. It’s not about static photos or one-dimensional styling—it’s about how a space feels  in real time. Touch, light, flow, sound—all of these influence a buyer’s perception. When done right, sensory design not only makes a space more memorable—it justifies a higher price tag. ✨ Ways to Add Sensory Appeal: Layer soft textiles  like velvet, bouclé, and silk in bedding, throws, and rugs Choose organic, curved furniture  that feels comfortable and sculptural Use ambient lighting —wall washers, LED strip lighting, soft-glow lamps Introduce natural scents (cedar, fig, eucalyptus) with subtle diffusers Let in natural airflow or incorporate soundscapes in open houses Remember: buyers don’t just want to see a home—they want to feel at home . Sensory staging taps into that emotional instinct. Why These Trends Matter Now The luxury buyer of today is more discerning, more design-aware, and more emotionally driven than ever before. They're not just purchasing square footage—they're investing in a lifestyle . One that feels exclusive, elevated, and serene. Here’s how these three trends work together: | Trend | Core Emotion | Design Benefit | |---------------------------|---------------|-----------------------------------------| | Luxury Minimalism | Calm | Highlights quality over quantity | | Quiet Luxury Finishes | Sophistication | Elevates perceived value | | Sensory Design | Connection | Creates emotional attachment | Whether you're staging a $2M condo or a $20M estate, these trends can help you make deeper, faster connections with buyers—and drive offers that reflect the full emotional and aesthetic value of the property. Final Thoughts: The New Rules of Luxury Staging Luxury staging is no longer about decorating—it's about curating . If you want your listings to stand out in today’s competitive high-end market, follow these new rules: Design for emotion , not just aesthetics Prioritize quality  over quantity Use materials that whisper , not shout Think about how each space feels , not just how it looks Luxury is changing. Make sure your staging changes with it.

BEST of the BEST 2025 Now until August 31st , you can nominate a deserving industry professional as the BEST of the BEST in Home Staging, Real Estate and/or Design! Categories are: Staging Excellence, Design Excellence, Client Care Excellence and Industry Leadership The BEST of Home Staging, Real Estate and Design started in 2016 as a way to identify industry professionals who deserve to be recognized for their excellence and service. Being nominated is the first step and all nominees will receive a NOMINEE PROMO from IAHSP that shares their information and the categories they were nominated in for them to share with the public. The final recipients of the recognition will be shared in SEPTEMBER once all nominees are reviewed and their submissions approved. To nominate someone, simply go to the Best of Home Staging, Real Estate & Design platform and fill out the form. Please make sure to share the person's name if you are nominating someone else (there is a field for that on the form), and ensure you have a current head shot for their promo. You can access the submission form on the IAHSP site under AWARDS AND RECOGNITION tab or via https://www.iahsp.com/BOHS-Submission The purpose of the BEST of the BEST recognition is to allow the PUBLIC who hires us for business to know the person they are working with is one of the BEST in the industry. We do NOT LIMIT the number of those who are recognized ANYONE can nominate or be nominated. You do not have to be an IAHSP member to nominate a deserving industry professional. You can Self-Nominate There is no internal association or public vote that determines the "winners" as this is not a popularity contest. There is no bias with who receives the recognition - all those deserving of recognition will receive it. IAHSP serves the home staging, real estate and design industry globally, and it is our pleasure and honor to recognize those professionals as the BEST of the BEST!

by Jennie Norris, Chairwoman & CEO, IAHSP ® If you have been in the home staging and/or real estate industries long enough, you have experienced it. That odor that hits you as you walk in the door of a house. And even worse, the sellers seem oblivious to the smells. You stand there smiling with that voice in your head that says, "OMG! This house stinks so bad! How am I going to tell them about the stench? It will NOT sell unless they get rid of it!" This is my 23rd year in the industry - and yes - I believe I have smelled it all! As the professional entrusted to help get a house sold using staging, I have a responsibility to be honest with the homeowners and share what they need to know to address any potential stumbling blocks for buyers. So do you. The KEY is Communicating in a way that does not offend, AND then provide a solution to address the issue. 4 TIPS to Consider: TIP 1: Choose Your Words Carefully I have taught hundreds of courses to thousands of real estate agents and home stagers. One of the things I teach in the course is about "communication" and how important it is to choose words carefully because they matter. When it comes to issues of smells, we need to find ways to say things in a non-offensive way.  Go re-read the first paragraph. I purposely used words that can be a trigger to upset the seller. Odor. Smell. Stink. Stench. Each word was an escalation in how bad something can smell - and many times that word would be deserving to describe the situation. However, it is important we don't offend the homeowner by telling them they have a stinky house. When stagers are asked to provide a consultation advising the sellers what they need to do to get ready for sale, the real estate agent is trusting us to represent THEM well. If we upset the client, it can impact the agent's relationship with them and possibly cost them the listing! TIP 2: Soften the Delivery: Instead of the words smell, stench, stink, odor - use the word "aroma," as in, "I am detecting the aroma of ___". It is a softer way to tell someone about a possible issue. Better yet, relate it to yourself: "I am detecting the aroma of your fur babies. I know I have the same issue with my sweet dog. This is what should help to minimize that." Relating it to yourself will make the seller feel less like you are being critical and finger pointing, and more like you are coming alongside them with empathy. Using the word "detecting" also leaves the door open for a seller who acts shocked that their house may have an aroma. If they claim no one has ever mentioned before, share, "I understand - most houses do have aromas of some kind, even my own, and we don't want to give a buyer ANY reason not to buy YOUR house." (and then share the solution). TIP 3: Never hide or mask an odor .  The owner needs to determine the source of the aroma and deal with it.  If you recommend a seller hide an unpleasant smell, it could come back to bite you as being deceptive. The seller could also be in trouble with buyers if they deliberately hide a troublesome odor. It means they were aware of the issue, and did not disclose or address it in the sale. The use of fragrant plug-ins, pot-pourri, candles, air fresheners, atomizers, etc. - are a " red flag" for a buyer. Overuse or use concentrated in certain parts of a property means there is a smell the seller is trying to hide. TIP 4: Always provide a SOLUTION that should eliminate the issue. You need to educate yourself on the various types of products available to ELIMINATE odors. Read on to learn how to do this. 5 basic aroma groups and how to get rid of them: 1. Smoke: cigarettes, pot, pipes, fireplace You need an ozone-based product that cleans the air. Clean any curtains/drapes, change air filters, clean vents. The sellers should not continue to smoke in the property or garage. A heavy smoker does not know how much their house smells - they are used to it. Sellers need to ensure there are NO cigarette or joint butts on the ground in the yard, not only is unsightly, it is also like having a sign saying, “Smokers live here!” Personal experiences: I did a consultation for a seller who was a heavy smoker. I was there for maybe 60-90 minutes. My hair and clothes took on the cigarette smoke smell badly, I had to take a shower when I got home. A buyer would likely turnaround and leave UNLESS they too, were a smoker. When my husband, John, and I bought our second home, the first time we saw the house, the listing agent was there and had every window open.  There was a commercial size ashtray – you know the ones that you see outside a large office building – in the family room.  It was mounded over with cigarette ashes and butts.  We decided to buy the house – the price was right, location and layout were great for a growing family. BUT that cigarette smell was atrocious.  We painted the entire interior, we had new carpet installed, removed curtains, and STILL – EVERY time we took a shower in the small master bath, the heat and moisture from the shower caused the ceiling (that had been painted multiple times by us) to ooze yellow nicotine residue.  Thankfully today there are products that get rid of that issue. 2. Cooking odors: Curry, strong spices, fish, etc. Ozone cleans the air so is good for these types of aromas. The sellers cannot keep introducing that aroma into the house - they need to minimize the use of certain spices, and not cook certain foods. Yes, it IS inconvenient for the sellers – so share that you know that it is – and yet it is for a short window of time in the grand scheme of things. If they are motivated to sell, they need to understand aromas are triggers for buyers, and they need to do their part to help their property sell. Eat out or go to friends or family's houses for meals. Remember to share with the homeowners: "The way you live in your HOME and the way we market and sell a HOUSE are two different things!" That takes the judgment OFF how they live, and the focus is solely on what is needed to get the house to sell quickly and at the best price based on market conditions. Personal experiences: We picked up our furniture from a house that had curry spice aromas we were told would not continue to be an issue while the house was for sale.  That was false, and when we went to pick up all our furniture took on that smell and required us to treat it with products to eliminate the issue. We had planned on using the items in a staging directly following the pick-up and had to shift gears. From that day forward, I put a provision in our staging agreements that makes the seller responsible for any issues of this type, and I carefully consider whether or not I want to take on those projects because of the risk to our upholstered items. 3. Pets: Urine, poop, pet hair, dog beds that smell like Fritos Enzyme based odor eliminators that get to the source of the aroma - enzymes break up the protein molecules and can even clean the carpet, furniture item that has been soiled.  However, the product must be applied to the SOURCE. Sellers may claim their pet has never soiled the flooring or furniture, but the nose knows!  A blacklight will show you EXACTLY where the stain is and then it is just a matter of getting the product application done properly. When the issue is so bad the flooring is not treatable, it is best to have the carpeting replaced, and the subfloor treated with products that eliminate the aromas and stains BEFORE new padding is put down. Furniture that is impacted by pet soiling can be removed. Pet beds can be washed or replaced - many homeowners stash them under their bed or behind a couch – and if they have that Fritos or old socks smell, it is a turn off for buyers. They should be washed / replaced to eliminate any possible concerns a buyer may have if they figure out there are dogs in the house. Personal Experience: We staged a $1.2M property that had been rented out and the tenant got 2 big dogs and did not disclose that to the owner.  This was during a time when the real estate market was a strong sellers’ market. When the tenant moved out, the high-quality carpets throughout the home were destroyed by pet urine.  When I previewed the house, I was bowled over by the strong urine smell. I advised the homeowner to replace the carpets that would have cost him about $30,000.  The homeowner refused and instead tried an enzyme-based treatment, but it did not work because there was too much damage.  The house was listed for sale, and did not sell. After dropping the price $120K, the house STILL did not have an offer! When we picked up our items, they had taken on the urine smell and had to be treated as well. If he had just taken my professional advice and replaced the carpets, the house would have sold, but he cost himself 5x the new carpeting investing and ended up wasting months on the market with a property buyers likely labeled, "the Pee house." 4. Mold and Mildew: These aromas come from water intrusion and to properly eliminate them, the Seller needs to get to the source. The spores are harmful, mold is a living organism that feeds off things like glue commonly found in wallpaper, caulking, drywall paste, etc. T he source of the moisture needs to be addressed and fixed, so the smell will go away.  Mold is a very toxic thing in a home and should not be ignored. For front loading washers, mildew and mold can form in the rubber drum liner and on the door. Those should be wiped down with a Clorox or other bleach product to eliminate the issue. Personal Experience: The second house we bought that had the cigarette smoke issue also had an issue with poor drainage on the property.  The house had a crawl space located in the floor of the primary bedroom closet, and when it rained, the yard flooded – and so did the area under the house.  We saw evidence from a water line that proved this.  As a result, the house had a mold/mildew issue and as a living organism, it was crawling up the walls of the house on the corners where the reinforced metal edges were glued.  The mildew/mold would show up from time to time as the organism ate the paint, and back then we did not have products to get rid of the issue.  We just painted over it but TODAY if I experienced this issue, I would use one of the proven methods for eliminating the mold and mildew, likely having to tear out portions of the walls in the area of the house where the crawl space was and replacing the affected areas with materials that were mildew and mold resistant. 5.  Old, musty house: Musty old house smell comes from age of the elements inside: carpeting, window treatments, furniture, clothing, even the people. Airing out these musty houses and removing old furniture, area rugs, clothing, etc. helps, but to really get rid of the aromas, using an ozone-based product is great. Sellers need to clean carpets (products can be put in the solution) or replace, remove old curtains, and valances, replace air filters and clean vents. An air purifier running in the house also helps. For showings it should be put away as buyers will think "there is something wrong with the ventilation," or "the house must smell bad." Even if that is not the case, no advertising the possibility with machines. OZONE SOLUTIONS: Ozone is a gas that is naturally occurring and is part of the atmosphere.  At ground level, ozone is harmful to humans, animals and even plants.  Ozone reacts with odor-causing molecules, oxidizing them and breaking them down, effectively eliminating the odors. It is like Lighting - the reason the air outside smells so clean after a good thunder and lightning rainstorm is because the lighting makes oxidants that clean the air. What Products or Services work: Ozium - spray you can purchase online or in many stores - often in the auto section Ozone machines such as Ecoquest Febreze ozone (non-perfumy) Commercial Ozone treatment for super heavy smoke smells - can be expensive but it is effective Note: Ozone is LETHAL in its high concentration form. Commercial treatments require any living thing to be removed from the house while the treatment takes place.  Companies use oxygen masks to get the system going in a house and have to wear them to turn off the treatment.  ALL pets and people need to leave for usually 24 hrs.  Personal Ozium Experience: When they were in high school, 2 of my sons went to a summer football camp and borrowed my car.  They had tents for camping and the first night a terrible storm ripped through the camp, destroying the tents of most of the players.  Four boys then slept in my car. When they got home, my car smelled like a combination of campfire smoke and sweaty bodies.  I sprayed  Ozium in my car and the aromas were gone. ENZYME PRODUCTS: Enzymes are catalysts that increase the speed of chemical reactions and break larger molecules into smaller sizes. Many enzymatic cleaners also contain beneficial bacteria that help further break down the remaining organic matter. These bacteria consume the smaller molecules produced by the enzymes, further contributing to stain removal. In layman's terms: if there is a urine stain, the enzyme breaks up the proteins causing the stain and then helpful bacteria eat away at the smaller particles and remove the odor and the stain. They are usually non-toxic and biodegradable What Products or Services work: PureAyre - made with plant-based enzymes, safe for babies and pets Kilz - Mold and Mildew Eliminator White vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or bleach solutions, followed by scrubbing and rinsing. Wiping out front loading washers where mold and mildew can form in the rubber seal going around the drum, and on the glass door. It's crucial to address the underlying causes of mold and mildew growth, such as leaks or high humidity, to prevent recurrence.   Paint that Cleans: Sherwin Willliams - SW - has a paint line that actually cleans the air and eliminate 99.9 of germs and other toxic things in the air and on surfaces are great. This paint line is being used in hospitals and is great for a house with children who are sensitive to germs, viruses, or airborne toxins.  IAHSP has a partnership with SW that gives you up to 47% OFF paint and supplies! Personal Pure Ayre Experience: PureAyre has so many uses, and, on the bottle, it says it can get rid of skunk smell.  We put it to the test when we lived in a nice house that had wood slatted doors to the backyard that would swell when it rained, and you could not close them.  One day when the doors were not able to close, a skunk wedged it's body through the slats and strolled into our living room.  I jumped up on the raised fireplace hearth and told my family not to make any sudden moves.  One of the kids was holding our dog.  The skunk could have headed off into the rest of the house, which would have been really bad, but it decided to explore the room, walked around and then made its way out the same way it came in.  Phew! Then someone put the dog down and he shot into the backyard and got skunked! It smelled so bad! We threw him in the shower with one of our boys and I handed him a bottle of PureAyre and told our son to use it like shampoo. ONE application and the smell was gone!  Truly a great product!! I hope this information is useful for you as you work with your clients. And remember: WHEN YOU CAN SMELL IT, YOU CAN'T SELL IT!

IAHSPConEXPO - Dallas - June 16-17! Optional DMC Market Tour on June 18th BUILD your Business, Success and Future at the IAHSPConEXPO Conference where we have EXPERTS teaching YOU on BRANDING, UPSCALING, INNOVATION, LUXURY DESIGNATION, and DIVERSIFICATION! Since 2003, IAHSP has hosted educational EXPERIENCES for industry members who want to Learn, Be Inspired, Get Motivated, and network with Colleagues! Our conference is not just sitting in a room listening to speakers, we IMMERSE you INSIDE a wholesale market - where you can visit showrooms and see all the cool new furnishings and trends for staging and design. Watch the video below to see what you will learn! Join colleagues from the Home Staging, Interior Design, Decorating, and Real Estate Industries for Timely Education from Industry Experts, Excellent Networking, annual Awards Gala recognizing Top professionals in various categories.  We will also take people on a tour of the Dallas World Market! NEW Luxury Home Specialist Designation learning from KEYNOTE Speaker and Instructor - Michael Lafido , LUXE Marketing Course Creator, Author, Luxury Realtor, and Listing Expert who has taught courses worldwide. He will be joined by Home Staging and Design Experts who specialize in the Luxury Market to share what you need to know to win these projects, how to market your services, pricing strategies and how to source items for Luxury stagings. He is joined by 3 of the TOP Staging & Design company owners in the world who specialist in Luxury Staging. PLUS there will be a PANEL of added Luxury Specialists who will share insights you want to know! Jonny Fowler is once again sharing his incredible knowledge on SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING and will talk specifically about USING AI to INCREASE Your SEO and Online Presence Organically - without spending a lot of money! The strategies he teaches are actionable immediately, and he has the latest insights into Meta, LinkedIn, X and TikTok platforms and why your posts are not being seen and how to increase your referral business, and revenue. PLUS Learn from Top Industry Experts on topics such as: Marketing and Branding to create the awareness and demand for your services Upscaling for growth: Team Building, SOPs, Hiring Strategies, How to work ON your business and not IN it daily Innovation for Business including How to Use AI and Chat GPT, New Platforms for expanded business niches, Technology platforms that make your life easier, Trends for 2025 Diversification of your business services to allow revenue to flow no matter what the real estate market is experiencing   We know 20% of those in any business will rise to the top - and we challenge you to be part of that 20%! Come join your colleagues focused on their future success - Dallas is waiting for you! - Jennie Norris, IAHSP ® Chairwoman JUNE 16-17: We have experts teaching on all 5 topic areas so you have actionable information you can implement into strategies for growth and success right away. As part of our conference, we will be taking ALL Attendees into the Partner Showrooms in Dallas - where you can learn and shop like a pro! Our partners will be hosting our meals - and sharing about their products and how you can purchase. Our conference is immersed IN the actual market - we are the ONLY association partnered with wholesale markets in the US. Your Ticket Includes : 2 Days of Education 2 Keynote Speakers 1 NEW Industry Designation Tour & Shop Wholesale Manufacturer Showrooms 2 Breakfasts 2 Lunches 1 Awards Dinner Conference Tote Bag Special Giveaways 1 Raffle Ticket to WIN $$ off 2026 IAHSPConEXPO Special Online Group First Graduates of IAHSP-LHS Luxury Home Specialist Course Discounted price for EU Conference May 2025 Discount on 2026 IAHSP Events JUN 18: The Dallas World Market Opens to all wholesale buyers, and we will put a tour together for those who have not yet been to a market and want to learn how to read tags, how to shop, how to set up accounts, and who are key partners for success are. This is a separate ticketed event. HOTEL INFORMATION : Space is limited so book early Dallas World Market has special rates for hotels, and you can book your rooms using partner hotel code provided by the Dallas World Market Center. Passkey: https://book.passkey.com/go/IAHSP2025ConExpo The HQ hotel where our leadership team and some speakers will be staying is the RENAISSANCE . We can continue to have conversations and fun after the education part of the day is over by gathering at that hotel in their common areas.

2025 HOME STAGING INDUSTRY STATS REPORT The highly anticipated Home Staging Industry Statistics Report is released and available for ALL industry professionals and the public to review and share with those who need to know the stats for home staging and how it impacts the real estate industry. Since 2003, the International Association of Home Staging Professionals ® (IAHSP®) has gathered information from industry professionals and released statistical data in various forms to prove the positive impact staging a property for sale has in the real estate transaction. As the leading industry trade association with a global reach, the 2025 HOME STAGING INDUSTRY STATISTICS from IAHSP ® is 29 pages full of important content on the real estate market around the globe, and the impact home staging has to help increase the profits made by sellers, brokerages, and real estate agents who incorporate staging into their listing and marketing strategy. The report also shares some of the process for Home Staging and definitions of common industry terminology the public may not know. It shares average pricing for various services which helps potential home staging users to know what to expect for preparing their property for sale. Educating the public, real estate industry members, and entities that serve the same groups is crucial for understanding the home staging process, pricing strategies, and ultimately the benefits to those who invest in home staging as a service to help properties sell faster and for more. The 2025 Home Staging Industry Statistics Report includes INFOGRAPHICS that can be shared in proposals, social media, and helps illustrate the benefits of home staging. Home Staging once again is shown to help properties sell faster and/or for more than the marketed, non-staged competition. From modest to multi-million dollar properties, condos, townhouses, single family homes, custom and luxury properties from around the world, Home Staging makes a big difference in the final sales price. For IAHSP® Members, this report is found in the Shared Files area of the Members Portal. For non-Members, you can purchase the full report with Infographics on the IAHSP.com STORE. Not a member of IAHSP yet? JOIN TODAY and start reaping the benefits of being part of the ONLY global association serving Home Stagers, Interior Designers and Real Estate Agents providing resources for success, events for education and growth, and opportunities for friendships by connecting our members with like-minded, success focused industry pros.

From IAHSP® – International Association of Home Staging Professionals® T he spring real estate market is approaching, offering homeowners an excellent opportunity to sell their properties. To maximize your home's appeal and value, consider the following 6 tips to help your house be more marketable: 1. Enhance Curb Appeal First impressions are crucial. Improving your home's exterior can attract more buyers and potentially increase its value. Simple upgrades like painting the front door can add up to 10% to your home's value. For example, a new front door, costing between $500 and $4,500, can significantly boost curb appeal.  Make sure to freshen up any groundcover such as mulch or rocks, remove weeds and get rid of any dead plants.  Add some bright perennials for a splash of color. 2. Declutter and Depersonalize A clean, organized space allows buyers to envision themselves living in your home. Remove personal items, excess furniture, and clutter. This not only makes your home appear more spacious but also helps buyers focus on its features. Get the advice of a professional home stager to advise you on what to remove and how to arrange your rooms for maximum effect. 3. Make Necessary Repairs Address minor issues like leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or chipped paint. These small repairs can prevent potential buyers from perceiving your home as neglected. A well-maintained property suggests to buyers that it has been cared for, reducing concerns about future problems. Touch up any areas that need painting such as baseboards, doors, and wipe down any grime from doors where people grab them to open and close. Do the same thing with your cabinets throughout the house. A clean house is more appealing to buyers. 4. Stage Your Home for the Target Buyer Staging highlights your home's best features and helps buyers imagine living there. When selling a house, it is ALL about the BUYER and what they want to see in a property they want to make their home.  From paint colors to furniture and art styles, you want your house to appeal to the target buyer, so they make an offer.  Houses that appear dated with furnishings that are older and paint colors that are not on trend can cost you thousands of dollars in the sale from sitting unsold for weeks.  When Staging, arrange furniture to showcase space and functionality, ensure each room has a clear purpose. Professional staging can lead to quicker sales and higher offers. ​ You can locate professional stagers at www.iahsp.com directory, and at www.Stagedhomes.com . 5. Highlight Attractive Features Mentioning desirable features in your listing can increase your home's appeal. For instance, highlighting a "remodeled" kitchen can raise the sale price by nearly 4%, adding approximately $13,194 to the average U.S. home. Upgrades like soapstone countertops, white-oak flooring, and outdoor showers are particularly attractive to buyers. ​   6. Schedule Your Listing Strategically Timing can influence your sale's success. Listing your home during the week of April 13 to 19 has been identified as optimal,  with homes selling faster and at higher prices during this period. Properties listed in this timeframe often receive more views and face less competition. By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your home's appeal, attract more potential buyers, and achieve a successful sale in the competitive spring real estate market.

Get ready to be part of Shaping the Future of the Home Staging, Real Estate & Design Industry! We need YOU to Step Up 2 Service - in whatever capacity that means. You can serve in your local area, your region, the country and/or internationally! The information below shares what we are doing to build future Leaders for the industry, and providing opportunities to be those who mentor and train these people. We are looking for SEASONED veterans (10+ years in business) who will help develop education modules, option to teach future leaders, and act as a Mentor as part of the BRAIN TRUST. They will help develop curriculum and teach those who want to enroll in the Leadership Academy. They will be compensated for time and contribution. Time commitment varies. Limited number of spots available. This will be an intimate group focused on growing future Leaders. The LEADERSHIP ACADEMY consists of a multi-week course with topics that build on one-another to teach you leadership skills you use in your business, with your team, clients, colleagues, and ultimately the overall industry. The Leadership Academy is for those who want to learn how to be an effective leader and serve the industry. We are looking for those who are dedicated to the Home Staging industry, who want to make a difference and move IAHSP into the future.  Be the FIRST to Enroll in the Leadership Academy and Learn:  Vital Leadership Skills, Business Management, Organizational Skills, Team Building and Motivation, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Market and Trend Evaluation, Key Communication and MORE! Join your industry colleagues in the newest campaign where we share I AM IAHSP - and WHY you belong to the association. The first video will be maybe 5 seconds long. The second video needs to be short - 10 seconds to maximum 30 seconds. Be FEATURED as one of the first 50 IAHSP Members to submit - and get $100 in IAHSP BUCKS to put towards certain Events, Education and Membership. Send your video to info@iahsp.com IAHSP is once again compiling INDUSTRY STATISTICS that will be shared with ALL industry pros - and with groups and entities that need to be aware of the data that proves Staging helps houses sell faster and for more! Please take a few minutes and complete the survey so your stats wil be included in the overall survey! NOMINATIONS START JULY 1ST!! Since 2016, IAHSP has recognized TOP industry professionals for Excellence, Client Care Excellence, and Industry Leadership. ​ We invited all professionals within the Home Staging, Design, and Real Estate industries, regardless of affiliation or background, to participate in our NOMINATION and RECOGNITION program.  It is important to emphasize that IAHSP membership is not a prerequisite for either nominating someone or receiving recognition as one of the industry's finest. We firmly believe in inclusivity, and that industry awards should encompass and celebrate ALL MEMBERS OF AN INDUSTRY. ​ We welcome submissions for nominations, whether for yourself or a deserving colleague. To facilitate this process, we kindly request their name and email address if they are not the ones submitting their application, as well as support information for the category(ies) in which they are nominated.  We extend this opportunity to ALL industry professionals, irrespective of their affiliations, to participate in this prestigious program and shine a spotlight on the excellence that permeates our dynamic industry. Your contributions are valued and celebrated by us all.

by Johnathan Miller, CEO, Creative Director and Principal Designer, JSquared Interior Staging and Design, Distinguished Lifestyle and Design Expert, National Home Staging Expert, and Media Personality, IAHSP® Contributor (L-R) Johnathan and Jon Miller, JSquared VA June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate and honor the diversity within the LGBTQIA+ community. It is a period that reflects a broader commitment to equality and inclusion, encompassing not just gay individuals, but the entire spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities. Pride Month is about recognizing and appreciating lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other non-heteronormative identities. The Evolution of Pride Pride Month has its roots in the struggle for gay rights, beginning with the Stonewall Riots in June 1969. The riots were a series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the LGBTQIA+ community in response to a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. This event is widely considered the catalyst for the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement. In the early days, the focus was primarily on gay rights. However, as the movement grew, it became clear that the LGBTQIA+ community was much more diverse. Over time, Pride Month has evolved to include all members of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, reflecting a broader commitment to equality and inclusion. Today, it is not just about celebrating gay pride but about recognizing the contributions and struggles of all LGBTQIA+ individuals. Acknowledging the Struggles The history of the LGBTQIA+ community is marked by significant struggles, both internal and external. In the early days, there was some transphobia among gay individuals, and racial tensions were exacerbated by the AIDS crisis. The AIDS epidemic, which began in the early 1980s, disproportionately affected gay men, leading to widespread fear and discrimination. This period also highlighted the racial disparities within the community, as black gay men and other minorities faced even greater challenges in accessing healthcare and support. Overcoming these internal divisions has been a significant part of the journey toward greater unity and acceptance. The LGBTQIA+ community has worked hard to address and dismantle transphobia and racism within its ranks, striving for a more inclusive and supportive environment for all its members. Celebrating Our Shared Humanity Today, Pride Month is about celebrating our shared humanity and the progress we've made in accepting and understanding one another, regardless of sex, gender, or sexual orientation. Using the term "Pride Month" is both correct and reflective of the inclusive spirit of the celebration. It acknowledges the diversity within the community and honors the contributions of all its members. The Role of Allies It's also important to recognize that Pride Month celebrates allies—our friends, family, and community members who support and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. Allies play a crucial role in fostering inclusive and accepting environments. They stand up against discrimination, educate others about LGBTQIA+ issues, and promote acceptance and understanding. For example, organizations like the International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP®) have shown significant support for the LGBTQIA+ community. Founded by women for an industry that primarily includes women and gay men, IAHSP has faced numerous challenges in being taken seriously. In a patriarchal world, they have often fought against sexism to establish their legitimacy and importance within the real estate industry. Women in business have always had to fight for a place at the table. Historically, women have been marginalized and their contributions undervalued, often having to work twice as hard to earn the same respect and recognition as their male counterparts. The real estate staging industry is no different. Women, particularly those in leadership roles, have had to overcome significant barriers to prove their worth and capabilities. Their journey mirrors that of the LGBTQIA+ community in many ways—both groups have fought against discrimination and worked tirelessly to create spaces where they can thrive and be themselves without fear. The strength and resilience of these women serve as an inspiration, demonstrating that with determination and unity, it is possible to challenge and change the status quo. Did you know that IAHSP® Chairwoman Jennie Norris has been an ally and advocate for gay rights for years? Long before the inception of IAHSP®, Jennie found herself living in a state that was trying to regulate who should be married, and she voted against legislation intent on preventing gays from having the same rights as heterosexual couples. She believed gay couples should be able to advocate for their partners, medical decisions, financial, and life and it is not the job of the government to tell people who they can love. While living in California during a period of significant progress, Jennie participated in protests to fight for equality and advancement. Her unwavering commitment to equality and justice has helped pave the way for a more inclusive and accepting industry and society. Jennie's advocacy and boldness in speaking her mind may sometimes be viewed as overly opinionated, but these traits underscore her dedication to fighting for what is right. She will no doubt continue this fight long after, reinforcing her positive character and enduring commitment to equality. Allies like IAHSP® help amplify LGBTQIA+ voices and contribute to positive social change, creating a more inclusive society for everyone. Their support is vital in the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. Attitudes Toward LGBTQ People Reflecting on the findings from GLAAD’s 2023 Accelerating Acceptance Report, it’s clear that there is strong support for LGBTQ rights among non-LGBTQ Americans. The report, which surveyed more than 2,500 American adults, found that: - A 91 percent supermajority of non-LGBTQ Americans agree that LGBTQ people should have the freedom to live their lives and not be discriminated against. - 76 percent of non-LGBTQ adults are comfortable having a transgender person at their place of worship. Despite this overwhelming support, a vocal minority continues to attack LGBTQ rights, using political means to marginalize and discriminate against the community. This underscores the importance of taking a stand this Pride Month. Take a Stand This Pride Month Over this next month, the LGBTQ+ community and allies — including many in the real estate industry — have a powerful opportunity to show up and demonstrate that LGBTQ+ people are just people. I urge my LGBTQ+ colleagues, whether you are a member of IAHSP or not, to show up this Pride season and support the LGBTQ+ friends who have undoubtedly supported you in some capacity. Participate in your local events and increase our strength in numbers. Let’s all work to empower the more than 20 percent of Gen Zers who self-identify as LGBTQIA+. They are our future and need to know we’ve got their back. By understanding and appreciating the history and evolution of Pride Month, we can all contribute to a more inclusive and accepting world. Let's celebrate this month with pride and honor the diverse voices within the LGBTQIA+ community. Bibliography 1. Katz, Jonathan Ned. Gay American History: Lesbians and Gay Men in the U.S.A. New York: Thomas Y. Crowell, 1976. 2. Duberman, Martin. Stonewall. New York: Penguin Books, 1993. 3. Shilts, Randy. And the Band Played On: Politics, People, and the AIDS Epidemic. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1987. 4. Hurewitz, Daniel. Stepping Out: Nine Tours Through New York City's Gay and Lesbian Past. New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1997. 5. McGarry, Molly, and Fred Wasserman. Becoming Visible: An Illustrated History of Lesbian and Gay Life in Twentieth-Century America. New York: Penguin Studio, 1998. 6. GLAAD. (2023). Accelerating Acceptance Report. Retrieved from [GLAAD's Accelerating Acceptance Report](https://www.glaad.org/acceleratingacceptance-2023) 7. Inman. (2024). This Pride Month, Show Up for LGBTQ Friends and Colleagues. Retrieved from [Inman](https://www.inman.com/2024/06/03/this-pride-month-show-up-for-lgbtq-friends-and-colleagues/amp/)

By Jennie Norris, IAHSP® Chairwoman, Professional Property Marketer and Home Stager, Speaker, and Author Disruption. In simple terms, disruption is a new way of doing something that already exists. The NAR Settlement and other settlements from large real estate brokerages are about DISRUPTION of the real estate process, in place to help ensure sellers AND buyers have proper representation by PROFESSIONALS educated in the process, contracts, and issues involved in selling and buying a property. I am not convinced this is a good thing. And only time will tell how it actually impacts the process. This article is about educating ourselves as affiliates of the real estate industry, as we need to stay on top of situations involving our clients. The legal ruling does not impact Stagers as far as how we do business. We are not paid commission as part of the sale. We DO want to be informed, and understand what took place, the impact to the industry we serve, and ultimately, what benefits we may experience. The multiple settlements and rulings have rippled through the industry with many offering their opinions on how it will change the process of buying a home. In a nutshell, listings in an MLS will no longer share buyer agent commissions, leaving that piece up for negotiation. In 2005, I was part of ABC's 20/20 Segment on Home Staging, and one of the other 2 features for that show were these guys from Freakonomics, who shared agents were overpaid, and did not deserve to make more than $500 for the work they do. The day after the show aired, the NAR President blasted the show for maligning agents and the real estate industry, and advocated for the commissions earned in the sale or purchase of what is, for most people. their largest asset. And here we are 19 years later - with commissions under attack, and the impact means real estate, as we have known it, will never be the same. My first thought was that buyer agents will still have a place, and they will have to write their commission into any offers they present to sellers - with sellers paying the commission, like always. If the seller does not want to pay that commission, the listing agent would negotiate an agreeable solution or sellers would reject the offer. The buyer agent would have to adjust their expectations or move on, or the buyers would have to pay for the services of the agent representing them. The offers coming in will have to consider that piece of the puzzle, whereas before, the listing agent determined the commission to the buyer's agent with "agent cooperation", and often the buyer's agent got MORE than the listing agent. I always thought was wrong. The listing agent does far more work to get the house sold, but the commission to the buyer agent was there to compel or motivate them to show that property over others, especially in a competitive market. That, to me, needed to change, and that was part of the premise for the lawsuit. Part of the lawsuit involved sellers who were FSBO - For Sale By Owner - were not getting the same showings as traditional sellers, often offering lower commission to the buyer agents. The buyer agents KNEW they would be doing more work to close the sale as FSBO people are fairly clueless about the process.  It was an issue of bias and collusion - and not equal opportunity for buyers to see ALL properties, even though the buyer agent was right - they would have to pick up the slack to close the sale, which is not fair to them when they are only being paid for one side. The defense did not do a good job defending the Realtor's work and role to justify and support the income they earn. On top of that, in separate cases, there was evidence some agents were purposely not showing certain homes to buyers if they were a certain race - they would take them to different neighborhoods, versus showing all available.  Agents were accused of racism, so that was not good. All it takes is 1 or 2 bad apples, and it spoils it for the whole bunch. NAR had not only this issue to deal with, but they also had a President accused of sexual misconduct resign, replaced by a woman who got death threats and resigned, and as a result their image has suffered greatly. Members have lost confidence in NAR, even though for over 100 years they have represented their members and the industry against government intrusion into the free market of buying and selling property. NOW - as I read and hear what others are saying, I am shifting my stance as I believe the ONLY way buyer agents will remain viable and paid well is if agents all agree to do this and unify - so sellers have to pay or else the burden falls on the buyer. The problem with that is they can again be accused of collusion.  As a result, buyer agents, as we know them, could cease to have a role, which is a regression from the equal representation for both sides of the sale/purchase. Experts share it will make buying a home more affordable for buyers, however that is not necessarily true. The Sellers benefit the most by not having to pay a commission to the buy side, but the selfish thing about that is THEY didn't pay commission to the agent that helped them buy. And now that they own a house, they don't want to pay it forward. If the seller is no longer required to pay a commission to the buyer agent, and a buyer wants to use an agent to purchase, they may have to come up with money to pay commission to their agent. This will lessen the amount of down payment they will have available to pay for a loan. Even cash buyers, who are king with offers as no loan contingency and often no appraisal requested, might have issues with affordability if they have to pay their buyer agent. This will be hardest for first-time home buyers who are starting out - and ALL of this will harm young buyers the most. They already cannot afford to get into a property with rising interest rates and how fast prices rose during Covid, and now have another hurdle to jump with financing. Lenders currently are not able to give loans to cover the commission - they can only lend on the purchase of the home which is the tangible product. They are going to have to come up with creative ways to get around that - underwriters are going to have to allow alternative funding of some sort that will not harm their approval on the major loan. A first-time homebuyer only has to put 3% down, so there are some programs with flexibility, however when faced with the choice of having to pay 2-3% to a buyer agent or use an attorney and keep most of that money to use to buy a better house or get into a house at all, a buyer will opt for the second choice. However, attorneys are not necessarily licensed real estate agents, and are not going to negotiate terms of the purchase on behalf of the buyer. An attorney is usually around $1000 to help a buyer with paperwork and those rates are probably going to increase now as the attorneys may become in more demand. Some loan programs currently have only 10% down as a new standard, but that can still be a lot of money. Production builders of new communities are offering low % down incentives to get buyers in there. When the market was hot, builders dishonored buyers AND agents - not paying any commission to agents who brought buyers to the new community - they raised the prices of their "releases" every 3 months by tens of thousands - and laughed all the way to the bank.  Now that the market is slower, they are begging people to come and purchase, and there should be some regulation on these production builders, in my opinion. For most buyers that are not selling a home to buy, the downpayment is a formidable sum to save up. If they want to buy a $500K house, they need $15K downpayment, and now they are looking at an ADDED $10-15K to pay their agent.  It will be attractive for them NOT to pay an agent to represent them, which is a huge risk for a buyer.  The problem is the buyer will not have adequate representation, and they risk getting into a home where there are issues of condition or repair that were not disclosed, were not discovered, or were not negotiated as part of the purchase, and you will have all these buyers with no legal protection or recourse, which is what Errors and Omission Insurance, required by NAR members, covers. Different states have real estate purchase agreements – they are not all uniform. In states like California, the contract favors the buyer as far as how and what the seller is required to disclose, and the potential penalties involved. In Colorado, the contract favors the seller who is supposed to disclose known issues with the house - but on the listing form they can check, "Not to my knowledge." Which in the legal world is the same as someone saying, "I don't recall" on the witness stand. It gives them an out because it is about a person's memory and recollection, versus facts. Without a way to PROVE a seller knew about something like mold or a faulty system, a buyer would rely on a home inspection to reveal issues, and the buyer agent would then negotiate terms of the purchase based on the inspection - asking sellers to address any health and safety issues.  IF a buyer has no advocate, they may not know how or what to negotiate or ask for concessions - and the listing agent is not going to just give up the seller's profit.  Interesting times for sure. A listing agent could double-end the sale - meaning get both the seller and the buyer, and possibly charge MORE commission to the Seller for handling both sides - as much as 1-1.5% more - which is great for them.  A listing agent would be smart to get another agent on their team to handle the other side of the transaction - so the buyer truly has an advocate for them, otherwise, the 1 agent becomes a "coach." All they really can do is advise because they would essentially be negotiating against themselves as the listing agent.  And as shared already, buyers can also hire an attorney to do the paperwork for them. For NAR - they are already losing members to a new association called the American Real Estate Association (AREA) started by New York-based Compass agent, Jason Haber, and Mauricio Umansky, star broker and co-founder of The Agency (from Millionaire Listing Los Angeles - married to Kendall whose sister, Kim, was a popular child actress - they are on the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills). Mauricio has a lot of exposure from these shows – and as a result has a strong reach to many agents.  Jason Haber is not as well-known as far as shows and media, but he started the NAR Accountability Project in latter 2023, as part of an initiative to deal with allegations of sexual harassment from then President of NAR. The lawsuits and lack of a plan by NAR in the event they lost the ruling, made his decision to join forces with Mauricio and form another group for agents to join - an easy one. Under the new association, Umansky and the Agency’s Chris Dyson have built a nationwide listings database using the technology from Umansky’s private listings service. They are calling the platform the National Listing Service (NLS), which is now live with some listings on www.NLS.com. A national database gives access to all listings no matter where an agent works - and is an open platform for them to use which is especially helpful if you are a buyer who does not know where you want to move or an investor looking for a good deal and have not focused on one state or city yet. With all this happening, it will be a mad scramble for agents to get LISTINGS - as that is where the guaranteed income is for agents. If this situation progresses to where buyer agents are no longer getting fair compensation, this will cut the business in half for the agents out there - and ultimately put a lot of agents out of business.  Interesting times. I don't think the ruling and settlement will dramatically increase the number of houses for sale - that number is all about the interest rates right now, and sellers who have a very low rate locked in now are reluctant to sell and then have to finance a purchase at a higher mortgage rate. This impacts the homeowners who are moving up in size - young families who need more room to grow.  They use the equity from their sale to buy a bigger home - but if the interest rates are much higher - and right now they could be as much as 5-6% higher than the current rate (1% was a rate many locked in!) - it means they could be looking at a much higher monthly mortgage payment, and affordability and what they can qualify for will shift dramatically. Sellers are currently sitting - waiting for interest rates to drop - and buyers are in a holding pattern too because there is not available inventory to buy. Sellers who have a LOT of equity and can pay cash for a house purchase or only have to finance a small amount, will be the ones who sell. Right now, those are the Sellers who have been in a home for more 5-10+ years - those who had their house values double during Covid.  Boomers and older Gen-Xers who are downsizing will have ALL that equity to pay cash for a home - they are usually not sizing up.  Millennials are the ones in the sizing up phase and will have challenges with interest rates and affordability as income has not gone up in line with interest rates. Inflation and cost of living has skyrocketed in the past 3 years, we are paying far more for gas, groceries, clothing, etc. – which leaves less money to pay for a mortgage. Multi-generational families or co-op buyers will also become more popular to combine income to afford a home. For Staging - I predict it will INCREASE demand as Listing Agents will HAVE to do something MORE to get the listing over their competition - or to compete equally. Staging is one of those tools that levels the playing field or advances an agent over another. Staging will be less about the SELLER ensuring their house looks great for the target buyer, which is still important, and it will be MORE about a LISTING AGENT getting the listing - and the race to provide MORE than other agents also vying for the business. A stager’s marketing messaging needs to address the agent’s BRAND and how Staging will help elevate them over their competition, help them win more listings, and provide a valuable service to help sellers net the most in the sale. It adds VALUE to the listing agent services. I also believe more agents will be forced to cover the staging as a way to win business over agents who expect the seller to pay. In this scenario, we can help educate our agents about protecting their commission, not leaving the offer to pay for staging as an open-ended amount, and having the seller pay up front and reimbursing them at the SUCCESSFUL close up to a certain dollar amount. The KEY is education. Note that these are my views on the situation, having watched the progression of the legal battles. You may or may not agree, however only time will tell. My final thought is this is sort of sad time for real estate – being driven backwards from lawsuits by sellers who benefitted from the system – not paying commission when they purchased – and now getting out of having to pay commission to the buyer agent.  As a wife and mother to two real estate agents, this impacts us financially as well. I know how hard agents work for their pay - often going without any income for months as they work with buyers and sellers. If people took the time to really break down the income and what it covers, they would never accuse an agent of making easy money. And it will make buying a home harder for younger buyers and lower income buyers - as if the interest rates and skyrocketing prices have not done enough damage. Time will tell if these predictions come true. Jennie Norris is the Chairwoman for the IAHSP®, International Association of Home Staging Professionals, the largest home staging industry association in the world—and she’s determined to help its thousands of members of home stagers, real estate professionals, and designers across the globe to thrive in ways they never imagined. Jennie is also the president and CEO of the world’s leader in home staging training, StagedHomes® , providing quality education for real estate agents and staging pros to help them thrive and succeed in business. She has educated thousands of real estate agents and stagers around the world, and loves sharing her knowledge of the industry to help others succeed.

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