Anyone selling a house wants the best possible outcome. What is that? Surely, it's that the house is sold quickly, simply with the least amount of legal hassle and rigmarole and for a solid price - enough that the seller feels they have made good on their investment, and yet still a number that the buyer feels is good value.

In New Jersey, with its close proximity to New York and its variety of rural and suburban communities, there are homes bought and sold no matter the season, no matter the market. The homes that sell best are those that are staged. Why? Because through staging, the transaction becomes a win for all involved.

It's a WIN-WIN for everyone.

1. Homeowners/Sellers

The process of preparing to have a home staged involves cleaning, getting the place into mint condition and then focusing on all of the assets, key selling features of the property. Many sellers remember all the happy parts of their lives in that space, and fall in love all over again. The clearing up and packing away of all things personal helps them to detach and get ready for the next chapter. It enables them to create an open, inviting space for the next owner -- all of which is good. The seller makes more money in less time with lower stress. Ain't that a win?

2. Buyers

A beautifully presented home triggers emotions, with the result that a buyer isn't buying the best value but something they truly relish. It's a much more exciting, positive experience than merely taking title on a solid investment!

3. Realtors

Well-staged homes that present beautifully go along way towards branding a realtor. Other realtors begin to have confidence in that realtor's listings, showing them over others because they always look and feel terrific. It's not an embarrassment or an awkward situation to show the home; it's fun. And who doesn't cherish a compliment now and again: "Oh, Mary, this is lovely. You'll have no trouble with this one. Well done!'

4. The Marketing Team

The photo-dude's happy: his shots look awesome. (because staging takes those shots into consideration and sets up the rooms specifically to photograph well.) The brochure designer has a good day, instead of feeling like they're once again trying to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear, and the person sitting at the various caravans and open houses has a fine time in a soothing, pretty environment.

With everyone happy. . . we have a win-win!