Halifax Home Stagers: The Entrepreneurial Spirit

I am just back from the largest home staging convention in the history of Home Staging. This international gathering of Halifax Home Stagers and Stagers from all over the world was put on by the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) in Las Vegas was sold out and it was AMAZING! Now the saying goes, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. But not this time! I for one have brought back invaluable ideas to my business, as I’m sure all the attendees have done, some from as far away as The Netherlands.


It was a privilege to be counted among the attending Staging entrepreneurs, mostly women, and including over 100 Canadian stagers. We came together as comrades rather than competitors. Coming from a huge variety of backgrounds, we each bring a wealth of experience and skills to our businesses, which we willingly share with each other. The speakers and sponsors added valuable product knowledge. Our key note speaker Matthew Finlason of HGTV’s “The Stagers” talked about how the staging industry has become a huge draw for people from all other professions, as a response to lost jobs in this economy, and that the industry will grow and change exponentially in the coming years. He also entertained us with stories of his work in LA with wealthy, exotic clients. So in spite of the time away from work and the grueling reality of airports and delayed flights causing an unexpected overnight in Montreal, this convention was truly a valuable investment in my business and my industry.


I was gratified to learn that women all over Canada and the States, in Australia, and in Europe are making similar decisions and handling similar issues as I am here in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In the larger cities where Staging has become an integral part of selling real estate, stagers like me are growing their businesses to meet the growing demand. In many rural areas the stagers are facing the issues I did here six years ago, looking forward to the growth that will happen. Stagers everywhere are providing a valuable service to their marketplace by helping home sellers, Realtors, and builders maximize their sale price and minimize their selling time; by providing jobs and mentorship to other stagers and support staff; by providing work to various trades; by initiating sales to local stores; by providing decorating services which help people enjoy their homes; and by contributing to their communities. 


RESA was formed with the mandate to advance professionalism and excellence in the real estate Staging industry. All members of RESA adhere to a strict code of ethics. RESA continues to develop and approve products, services, and educational opportunities as well as provide a forum for stagers to learn from each other and support each other.

If you’re interested in becoming a Halifax home stager, you’re in for a great ride!

 ~Melanie