LCP Media Blog | Marketing Insights for Multifamily, CRE, Senior Living and Hospitality

Maximizing Multifamily Appeal: The Power of Virtual Staging

Written by Caitlin Golden | Oct 5, 2023 3:17:00 PM

In the competitive world of multifamily real estate, making a lasting impression on potential residents is crucial. Visual appeal is a critical factor in attracting and retaining renters. Traditional staging can be expensive and time-consuming, but with technological advancements, virtual staging has emerged as a practical and cost-effective alternative.

What is Virtual Staging?

Virtual staging is a digital technique that utilizes computer-generated imagery (CGI) to furnish and decorate empty spaces. It gives potential residents a visual representation of what a vacant apartment could look like when furnished and decorated. It’s like a sneak peek into the future of their possible living space.

The Benefits of Virtual Staging

1. Cost-Effective

Virtual staging is significantly more budget-friendly compared to traditional staging. There are no expenses for purchasing or renting furniture, hiring movers, or arranging for staging professionals.

2. Time-Efficient

Traditional staging can take weeks to set up and perfect. In contrast, virtual staging can be done in a matter of days, allowing for quicker listing and showcasing to prospective renters.

3. Generate Revenue

Property management firms have started to forgo traditional model units for virtually staged units, opting instead to lease the models for additional revenue. 

4. Versatility

Virtual staging offers immense flexibility. You can easily switch furnishings, styles, and colors to match different target audiences or preferences.

5. Appeals to Imagination

It enables potential renters to envision how to personalize and utilize the space to meet their needs and tastes.

How Does Virtual Staging Work?
  • Photography: High-quality photographs of the empty spaces are taken. These photos serve as the canvas for the virtual staging.
  • Digital Design: Skilled designers use specialized software to add furniture, decor, and other elements to the photographs, creating a lifelike representation of a furnished apartment.
  • Rendering: The designed virtual furnishings are rendered into the original photographs, seamlessly blending the virtual elements with the natural environment.
  • Presentation: The virtually staged images are then presented in listings, websites, or marketing materials to showcase the potential of the space.

Best Practices for Virtual Staging
  • Match the Property’s Style: Ensure the virtual staging aligns with the property’s architecture and style to maintain a cohesive look.
  • Stay Realistic: While virtual staging enhances the space, keeping the enhancements realistic and achievable is essential.
  • Highlight Key Spaces: Focus on showcasing the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms, as these are the areas that prospective renters prioritize.
  • Regular Updates: Periodically update the virtual staging to reflect current design trends and preferences.

Virtual staging is a powerful tool that can help multifamily marketers and property managers showcase vacant units in their best light without breaking the bank. By embracing virtual staging, you can maximize the appeal of your spaces and attract potential renters effectively and efficiently.

ABOUT LCP MEDIA

LCP Media (Lights Camera Pixels) is a national visual media technology company based in Chicago. We provide a full menu of services, including virtual tours, professional and drone photography, 3D renderings, video animations, virtual staging, and floor plans. LCP Media is an innovative leader in creating unforgettable virtual real estate experiences by combining unrivaled technology solutions with our unparalleled customer service.

Simply put, we deliver an unreal experience from start to finish. So real, it’s Unreal! For more information, please visit LCPMedia.com.