The power of property styling for investors

The fabulous styling of properties can be your greatest enemy when you’re buying, and your very best friend when you’re selling.

But how do you avoid being dazzled by the glitter and glitz when you’re investing, and then use it to your advantage when you’re cashing in?

That’s tricky, says Stephanie Bungard of Beautiful Spaces Styled by Steph. “We rented a property once while renovating, and the fresh paint hid rising damp, which came back after six weeks,” says Banyard.

“A new layer of paint can hide all manner of ills. Rugs can hide scratches on the floor and smaller furniture can be strategically placed to make rooms look bigger.

“You always have to go in with a clear head, turn the taps to make sure they work, lift rugs, open the blinds and switch off lights to see how much natural light there is, look into cupboards and check the floor plan to make sure full-sized furniture will fit. Try not to have an emotional reaction.”

Buyers’ agent Cate Bakos has seen many buyers over the years being seduced by good styling, and says it’s vital to look beyond the dazzle.

She suggests photocopying the floor plan, blowing it up and then drawing in your own furniture to see how sizes work out.

“Also, this is your chance to test everything to make sure it works, like the heating and hotplates on the oven, even if the agent demonstrates it for you. And, Google the address to look at old listings. You might see pictures without the styling!” Bakos says.

By the same token, of course, you’ll then try to spark a love affair when you’re selling.

Justine Wilson, founder of Vault Interiors, says it’s something of a catch-22 to avoid being taken in, and then showing off your own property to its very best advantage.

“Styling is one of the most powerful tools vendors can use to stand out, create urgency and sell,” she says. “You need to show buyers the kind of lifestyle they can live, which is an aspirational thing.

“When a place is presented beautifully, people are less likely to focus on its imperfections, especially when the buyer may be on a tight budget and realises this is a home they can move into without having to spend anything.”

Wilson recommends styling the entry to a home, from the front gate to a fresh doormat in the hall and a well-lit, clutter-free hallway with a beautiful console or artwork.

Textured cushions, throw rugs and layered bedding make spaces feel inviting, while floor lamps or warm-toned lighting softens rooms and sets a calming mood.

She also advises bringing in some greenery and styling nooks as reading corners or a breakfast bar, with books, cups and candles.

With fresh paint, the palette should be neutral to allow the buyer to imagine themselves there.