Vacant 1,400 square-foot cottage decorated using the seller’s own furniture and accessories finally sells – third time around.

First attempt to sell comes when the home is occupied.

Second attempt, after the owners move out, and the home is vacant.

Third and final attempt, this vacant home becomes a well staged home with the seller’s own surplus furniture and accessories.

New paint, deep cleaning, and fun furniture lead to a quick offer – and shortest time on market – this time around.

AtWell Staged Home’s “staging outside the box” saves this seller over $2,500 in furniture rental fees.

Here’s what this Ridgefield CT home seller had to say right after seeing his well staged home:

“You did a magnificent job. I just walked through the house and I said, ‘Boy, I’d like to buy it myself again.’ Thanks for all the help in staging our vacant house.”

Budget Breakdown:

$400 for professional movers
$175 for accessories

See below how a plastic outdoor table subs well as a dining table, and how an office and bedroom sitting area are staged for $0.

Living Room – Original Listing Picture

Living Room – Vacant

Living Room After Staging…
Room is staged with just enough of the home owner’s accessories and furniture to add perspective, warmth, and color. Now the room appears larger and shows off its best assets: refinished hardwood floors and stone fireplace. Total spent: $4 for 2 bird houses used on mantle.

Entry – Original Listing Picture

Entry – Vacant

Entry After Staging…
Furniture now defines the entry, showing off its size, hardwood floors, high ceilings and large windows. Marble top sewing stand found in shed, makes a great entry table, once cleaned. Owner’s iron deck chair is a perfect mate. Total spent: $30 for new mirror.

Kitchen – Original Listing Picture

Kitchen – Vacant

Kitchen After Staging…
Owner’s rug, dishes and bowls add color while stainless steel spoons show off utensil rack. Small 79 cent art coordinates with bowls, and grout is thoroughly cleaned. Colorful and clean help sell this space. Total spent: $30 for spoons, plate stands and art.

Master Bedroom Before Staging

Master Bedroom After Staging…
Owner’s air mattress is placed on top empty boxes found at the local liquor store. Bedding, side table, and bowl are also borrowed from owner. Metal stars, found for 90% off, become makeshift headboard. Total Spent: Less than $4 for Stars.

Sitting Area Before Staging

Sitting Area After Staging…
This space is made soft and cozy with the addition of the home owners window treatments, chair, floor lamp and pillow. Not much is needed to define this space.