Neighbourhood Spotlight: Why Families Love High Park

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions aren’t just important, they are everything . With over 90% of buyers beginning their search online , the way your home looks in photos and during showings can dramatically influence how quickly it sells and the quality of offers you receive. This is exactly why every listing I take includes full, complimentary professional staging . From furniture selection to décor, layout, lighting, and flow, I ensure your home is presented at its absolute best with no added cost or stress for you. But staging isn’t just “nice to have.” It’s one of the most valuable and proven tools in real estate. Below are the powerful stats behind staging and how my service helps you maximize your home’s potential. Why Staging Matters: The Numbers Speak for Themselves  1. Staged Homes Sell Up to 73% Faster A study by the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) found that staged homes spend 73% less time on the market compared to unstaged properties. A faster sale means: Less time dealing with showings Lower carrying costs Fewer mortgage payments while you wait A stronger position in negotiations My staging service is designed precisely to create that “move-in-ready” feel buyers rush to act on. 2. Staging Can Increase a Home’s Value by 6–10% (and Up to 11%) National and regional data consistently show that staging can increase a home’s perceived value and in many cases, its actual sale price. According to real estate professionals: 22% of agents believe staging adds 6–10% in value Many report increases as high as 11% That means a home listed at $1M could realistically see $60,000–$110,000 more in value simply because it was professionally staged. This is why I include staging as part of my listing package. I want every seller to benefit from this advantage. 3. 81% of Buyers Find It Easier to Visualize a Staged Home as Their Future Space Staging isn’t just about making things pretty, it's about helping buyers connect emotionally. The National Association of Realtors® reports that: 81% of buyers say staging makes it easier to imagine the property as their future home Rooms appear larger Function becomes clearer The home feels “finished” and move-in ready Since the average buyer only spends about 7 seconds forming their first impression, the emotional impact of staging cannot be overstated. 4. Staging Highlights Key Features Buyers Often Miss A well-staged home draws attention to: Architectural details Natural light Sight lines and flow Updated finishes Functional layout This is especially important when over 90% of buyers first see your home online, staging ensures the home photographs beautifully and stands out in search results. 5. Staging Leads to Higher Quality Offers A staged home signals: Care Pride of ownership Move-in readiness Good value In turn, this encourages buyers to come in strong with their offers because they feel like they’re purchasing something elevated and well-maintained. This often results in: Fewer low-ball attempts Competitive offers Faster decision-making Stronger negotiating position for you How My Complimentary Staging Service Works Because I stage every listing I take on, the process is seamless and stress-free for you. Here’s what’s included: ✔ Full home staging consultation I walk through the property and create a customized plan tailored to your home’s layout, condition, and buyer profile. ✔ Complete furniture + décor staging From sofas to artwork to accent pieces, I bring in everything your home needs to shine. ✔ Enhancing flow, space, and lighting Strategic layout changes make rooms feel larger and more functional. ✔ Cleaning, touch-ups, and aesthetic recommendations I help guide you through small, impactful improvements that make a big difference. ✔ High-quality listing photography and video Once staged, your home is captured in its best light literally. ✔ Zero extra cost, always included You should never have to pay extra to make your home market-ready. It’s part of the full-service experience I provide. The Result? Faster Sales. Higher Prices. Less Stress. Staging isn’t just about looking good, it’s about: Maximizing your return Attracting the right buyers Standing out in a competitive market Creating an emotional connection Selling faster and more profitably And because I handle everything from start to finish, you get the benefit without the hassle. If you're thinking of selling or even curious what your home could be worth after professional staging I’m here to help you prepare, present, and profit. Love What You Do — and love how your home sells.

Boost your home’s value with high-return renovations. Discover the top kitchen, bathroom, and curb appeal upgrades that attract buyers in Toronto and Durham Region. When preparing to sell your home, knowing which renovations deliver the best return on investment is essential. Not every upgrade adds equal value—focusing on strategic improvements can make your property stand out in the competitive Toronto and Durham Region markets. Here are the home renovations that pay off: 1. Kitchen Upgrades: Modernize the Heart of Your Home The kitchen is one of the most influential spaces for buyers: Countertops & Cabinets: Replacing old countertops with quartz or granite and updating cabinet hardware gives a fresh, modern look. Appliances: Energy-efficient stainless steel appliances appeal to buyers and offer long-term savings. Lighting & Fixtures: Modern lighting enhances space and highlights design features. 2. Bathroom Improvements: Small Changes, Big Impact Bathrooms are another major selling point: Update Fixtures: Modern faucets and showerheads refresh the space. Vanity & Countertops: A sleek vanity creates a polished look. Tile & Grout: Clean, re-grouted tiles or updated flooring make older bathrooms feel brand new. 3. Curb Appeal Enhancements: First Impressions Matter Buyers start evaluating your home from the outside: Landscaping: Fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, and flowers improve perception. Front Door & Hardware: A new door or updated handle adds charm. Paint & Siding: Fresh paint or siding repairs signal a well-maintained home. 4. Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Appeal to Modern Buyers Sustainable features are increasingly important: Windows & Doors: Energy-efficient replacements reduce costs and increase comfort. Insulation: Updating attic or basement insulation improves energy efficiency. Smart Home Features: Thermostats, lighting, and security systems attract tech-savvy buyers. 5. Fresh Paint and Flooring: Simple Yet Effective Sometimes the simplest updates make the biggest difference: Paint: Neutral, light-colored walls make spaces feel larger and brighter. Flooring: Hardwood or well-maintained laminate/tile is highly appealing. Maximizing your home’s value doesn’t require a full-scale renovation. Strategic, high-impact upgrades in the kitchen, bathroom, curb appeal, and energy efficiency can attract more buyers and help you get the best price for your home. 📞 Ready to sell your home? Contact me, Laura Cooper, for expert advice on renovations that deliver the highest return and strategies to make your home irresistible to buyers.