Posted on: February 20th, 2025 by Chris Scott
When it comes to selling a home, first impressions are everything. That’s why staging is one of the most powerful tools in our real estate playbook. A perfectly staged home doesn’t just look good—it tells a story, invites buyers in, and helps them envision their future in the space.
We recently had the opportunity to work on a condo that was completely vacant when we first listed it. While it had a great space and natural light, it lacked the warmth and personality that buyers are drawn to. That’s when we called in our expert stager, and the results were nothing short of remarkable.
Before: A Blank Canvas
When we first stepped into the condo, it was completely empty—just walls, floors, and windows. While some buyers can see past that, many struggle to picture how furniture will fit, how spaces flow, and how it will feel to live there. Empty rooms can also make a home feel cold and uninviting, making it harder for buyers to form an emotional connection.
After: A Standout Listing
The difference was night and day. Once staged, the condo no longer felt like an empty space—it felt like a dream home. The transformation not only enhanced its visual appeal but also made the listing photos pop, attracting more online views and interest from buyers.
And the best part? It worked. The staged condo quickly stood out in the market, leading to more showings and strong interest from potential buyers.
Why Staging Matters
Staging isn’t just about making a home look pretty—it’s about creating a connection. It helps buyers see the potential of a space and imagine themselves living there. In a competitive market, it can be the difference between a listing that lingers and one that sells quickly.
If you’re thinking about selling your home, don’t underestimate the power of staging. Whether it’s a condo, townhome, or single-family house, we have the resources and expertise to make your home shine.
Curious about what staging can do for your home? Let’s chat and make your property stand out!
Posted on: October 7th, 2024 by Chris Scott
Ever wonder what a HHT (House Hunting Trip) looks like? Every year we help dozens of families relocate into ottawa on their house hunting trips. With only five days to spend in a new city looking for a house it is very intense! We had so much fun documenting our most recent experience.
Day One: Stittsville and Barrhaven
We kicked off the first day by exploring homes in Stittsville, where the neighbourhood’s charm immediately stood out. The friendly atmosphere and tree-lined streets made a strong first impression. However, while the overall vibe of Stittsville was appealing, the home we toured felt too dark for their taste, quickly ruling it out.
Next, we shifted our focus to Barrhaven, where most of their top choices were located. The proximity to recreational centres, shopping, and the well-established community made Barrhaven an appealing option. While some of the homes we visited were a bit older or showed signs of wear, that didn’t affect their final picks. By the end of the day, they had narrowed it down to two or three homes that really stood out and were worth keeping in mind as we continued the search.
Day Two: Richmond, Orleans, and Findlay Creek
We started the day in Richmond, focusing on a few homes Chris had picked out as they aligned perfectly with our client’s criteria. These homes were all new built or constructed within the last few years, offering a bright and modern feel. Several of them backed onto green space, which was a key feature our clients were looking for. While Richmond’s growth and development were appealing, there was some hesitation about whether the current infrastructure would keep pace with the rising population.
After wrapping up in Richmond, we made the hour-long drive to Orleans to check out a few homes that had been high on their favourites list. However, it was clear upon arrival that these homes were significantly older and more lived-in compared to the newer properties we had seen earlier. On the plus side, the larger yards were a hit, but ultimately, the homes didn’t meet their needs.
Toward the end of the day, we managed to squeeze in a last-minute showing back in Richmond. This home ticked many of the right boxes and quickly rose to the top of their list. Meanwhile, Colin took them to see one more property in Findlay Creek, a last-minute opportunity since it was in his area. Unfortunately, this home didn’t fit their needs either, and that wrapped up Day Two.
Day Three: New Listings and Final Visits
After some reflection, our clients realized that while they liked the homes in Richmond, they couldn’t quite picture themselves living there long-term. However, a few new listings had come on the market since we originally booked their showings, and they wanted to explore those before making a decision.
We started the day in Kanata, arriving just as the for-sale sign was being installed. The home featured a pool, which caught their attention, but the small rooms left them wondering how it would work with their growing boys. Despite the hesitation, it earned a spot in their top three choices.
Next, we headed to another new listing. The clients were impressed by both the home and the yard, but with multiple offers already on the table and the tight time frame of their house-hunting trip, entering a bidding war just wasn’t a feasible option.
From there, we revisited their two top picks from Barrhaven. As the day came to a close, they faced a tough decision between the two favourites in Barrhaven and the new contender in Kanata. To feel confident in their choice, they decided to return to the Kanata home with Chris for one final look that evening.
Pros & Cons of the Top Three Picks
Day Four: Decision Day
After much deliberation, our clients were finally ready to make their decision. They chose their top pick and we quickly submitted an offer. After a bit of negotiation and back-and-forth with the sellers, we successfully secured a conditional agreement!
Fortunately, we had already arranged for a home inspection, which took place just two days later. Everything went smoothly, and the conditions were met by the following week, officially securing their new home. It was a perfect way to wrap up an exciting and productive house-hunting trip!
