Staging to Sell

Interview with Amanda Barker of Amanda Barker Interiors

I recently had the pleasure of working with local interior designer, Amanda Barker on my client's listing at 2264 Williamsburg Drive. She took time out of her busy schedule of renovating and remodeling to answer some questions and give some expert advice on staging a home and getting it ready to put on the market. Amanda lives in Jonesboro, Arkansas and has been working in interior design for 18 years. She was the first to bring staging to Northeast Arkansas and been accredited since 2006. 

Kristin: What drew you to interior design?

Amanda: It was something I practiced at an early age, long before I even knew it was a career option. I was sketching, and designing new spaces as well as moving things all around and giving my parents' home a new look. 

Kristin: What is your favorite thing about your work?

Amanda: Every job is something fresh and different. I get to help people make the most of their space for a more enjoyable lifestyle.

Kristin: What are you currently inspired by?

Amanda: Custom trim, built-ins, and the color navy. 

Kristin: Why is staging so important in real estate?

Amanda: It is so important for the maximum return on investment, as well as helping new potential owners envision themselves in the space. 

Kristin: Do you have any advice for anyone trying to stage a home on their own?

Amanda: Clear as much of the perimeter of the rooms as possible. It's great to be able to see lots of baseboards. Less is more and that goes for closets too. Try to have empty closet floors and store things toward the top instead. 

Kristin: What is your number one tip for preparing a home to be listed?

Amanda: Take photos first, and then assess your home through the photos. We get so accustomed to seeing our own things that we often don't see what needs to be addressed in the way of clutter. Clear and pack as much as possible. We want buyers to see the bones of the house instead of your things. 

Kristin: What was your biggest staging challenge?

Amanda: I can think of a log cabin home that I did once that was a bachelor pad and home of a big dog. I tell this story to anyone that makes apologies for their home. I always tell them of the time that I saw dog hair in the form of a tumbleweed and I assure them that theirs looks just fine! On a serious note though, that home was professionally cleaned, staged with beautiful rustic pieces and showed beautifully. It still stands out as one of my favorite end results. 

If you are ready to take your listing to the next level and start getting the attention of your buyer market, call or text Amanda Barker at 870-930-4181. See examples of her work at facebook.com/AmandaBarkerInteriors. If you like the pictures you see above, that is also Amanda's handy work and it is currently for sale! Check it out here 2264 Williamsburg Drive. To set up your personal tour of this gorgeous home or get a complimentary comparative market analysis on your home call Kristin Carbo at 870-273-2311