Game room staging is the art and science of aesthetically and functionally improving the appeal of a dedicated recreation space within a luxury property. Game rooms come in many forms, from general open spaces that can be used for a variety of amusement activities, to extremely specific applications, such as bowling alleys, tennis courts, basketball courts, billiard rooms, casino rooms and videogame rooms
Game rooms are not good inclusions in lower-end homes, since they do not rank high on average buyer want-lists. However, for high-end properties, these bonus rooms can be just the thing to differentiate one luxury super-home from another, earning the sale over the competition due to interest factor alone.
This essay profiles home staging applications within dedicated gaming spaces, indoors and out.
General Game Room Staging
Non-specific game rooms can also be considered to be family rooms or mancaves that have been outfitted with a variety of amusements. These spaces can be within the general interior of the home or may be located in a finished basement or attic. Game rooms are effective for appealing to families with children or families where the adults still enjoy a variety of recreational pastimes.
When staging an existing general game room, be sure to decide if the fixtures are included with the sale of the house. Be certain to clearly inform prospective buyers of this decision and specify, which, if any, gaming apparatus are included in the transaction.
Be confident that all gaming equipment is in good condition and is clean and operational, regardless of whether it is included in the sale or not. Do not be surprised if buyers pause to really examine the gaming items in the room, so ensure that they will be buyer-pleasers, not huge aesthetic liabilities.
When decorating these rooms, be sure to integrate the concept of entertainment and light-heartedness. Maintain a consistent theme with the rest of the home, but differentiate the game room with some novel touches that reflect its fun side.
Specific Game Room Home Staging
Specific types of game rooms all require the same upkeep as any other area of the home and should always be presented as ideal examples of their particular pastime. Here are some of the many possible types of indoor and outdoor game rooms that can be enhanced during the home staging processes:
Casino rooms should be convincing representations of a true Las Vegas experience. The décor should reflect luck and chance, while the equipment should embody trust and confidence. Be sure that all gaming tables and machines are operational and up-to-date. There is nothing worse than antiquated gaming machines, unless a vintage look is part of the home’s specific appeal. Furnish the room with luxurious comfy chairs and a great ventilation system, especially if cigarette or cigar smoking is allowed therein. A bar makes a wonderful addition to any casino room, as well.
Billiard rooms should highlight the playing table as the focal point. Be sure that the table is well lit, in excellent repair and fully accessorized with all the balls, cues, and other items needed for play. Include areas where spectators can sit and enjoy a game, even if they are not participating. A sectional works great to accommodate viewing and simultaneous conversation.
Indoor or outdoor basketball courts can be very popular additions to a luxury home. Basketball is consistently ranked as a great cardiovascular pastime and a preferred activity for family fun time. Be certain that the hoop, net and backboard are perfect, the court is fully marked and the sidelines are safe for play. Having a dedicated equipment storage locker, cage or closet is a great addition to any court space. Inclusion of seating for spectators is great, but be sure that these options fit the theme of the room, as well as the demands of the space.
Indoor or outdoor tennis courts are perfect additions to please sophisticated wealthy buyers. Be sure that the court surface is perfect, the net is new and the court markings are easy to see and regulation-compliant. Once again, having a dedicated storage area for equipment is highly preferred. Providing benches, cocktail tables and a wet bar courtside are great additions to any tennis area.
Videogame rooms should consist of state-of-the-art equipment, with multiple gaming systems available for entertaining guests and residents. Chairs must be super comfortable and casual. Installation of high-end audio equipment will provide a lifelike gaming experience. Finally, adding snack machines and a simple kitchen setup will make buyers want to stay here for hours, once they purchase the house.
Indoor bowling alleys are the least often seen gaming experience in luxury homes, but I have seen a few in my time. Bowling alleys truly represent excess in luxury housing and must impress in every way possible. The room should obviously be professionally soundproofed. The lanes should sparkle and have all regulation markings. The resetting machines must be functional and quiet in their operation. Ball returns should mirror these practical sentiments. Be sure to have lots of bowling shoes available, for men and women, in every size. Also, keep lots of bowling balls on hand, in several sizes, weights and colors. Organize everything on dedicated rack storage and enclose less aesthetic items with cabinets or closets. A high-end audio/video system is a great addition to any indoor bowling room.
Guidance on Game Room Staging
Game rooms should never be created in a home that is lacking one, unless all other buyer criteria are already met to excess. Statistics show game rooms to be at the bottom of most buyer want-lists, compared to extra bedrooms, home offices, family rooms and other residential amenities. However, for the largest and most pricey of homes, game rooms work great to entice prospective buyers to pull the trigger and make an offer.
Remember, when courting a luxury buyer, no expense can be spared to stage the home to its full potential. Although the cost of aesthetically enhancing the large house can be quite an investment, sales statistics also show that it is possible to receive an equally large return on investment in terms of a higher sales price.
