We home stagers ALWAYS need hardcover books in some capacity for our projects. Most homes have built-ins or shelving units that need some adornment and books add a cozy warmth to a bedroom or office. Most of the time we need books to add a splash of color but not all books will work. Don't assume that potential buyers won't look at the hardcover's spine and see what kind of content you have on your shelves. Books on death, witchcraft, illness, medical disorders, criminal behavior, mental illness or even home staging might be a turn-off to buyers...you think?
Even book store sales can cost you a bundle if you need a LOT of books. I happened upon a nifty book sale the other day right in my neighborhood and I'll bet there will be one close to you too! Contact your local library to see if they are planning a sale anytime in the near future. My library in West Linn, OR lends and sells used books and I scored this collection below for $2.00 on the last day. I took all the covers off because if you look closely you'll see a biography on Steve Allen and a Weight Watchers Cookbook.
Good luck book-hunting!
Thanks Kate for the tip!
Home staging books are good to have on hand. You can get some great tips to bring with you on a listing.
Kate, I actually needed a few books for my model home, and our local COunty Library system had a great book sale held at our local fairgrounds, and it was truly a great opportunity to get great books for pennies on the dollar. Thanks for the post.
Kate ~ Just $2.00 for all those books? Brilliant!! Great score!!
What a terrific find Kate. Thanks for sharing. Another great place for book bargains are garage/yard sales.
Robert ~ You're welcome. Thanks for stopping by.
Gaye ~ I can never have too many books for staging. I tend to leave the staging books at home so the buyer thinks someone actually lives there :)
Chris ~ Aren't the local libraries great? Mine always seems to have a book sale just as I'm running out!
Maureen ~ It was $2.00 per bag and I crammed 'em all in. Thanks a bunch!
Debra ~ Thanks for reminding me about yard sales. People hate lugging books around so it's true that they are found at a lot of garage sales.
A "lifestyle" staple in staging. Books, good post.
Terrylynn ~ I agree! Books seem to work for staging in every home no matter what style it is. Thanks for commenting!
Great idea about books and getting them cheap. Once in ahwiel I've taken some of my own to a property -- but buying them cheap is even better, and no worries that they will walk off!
I totally agree, the title/subject of materials used in staging is important. The energy created with words is powerful, in many ways. Great post, thanks
I'm not a home stager but have a set of encyclopedias in excellent condition dating back to the early 70's....I absolutely cannot stand the thought of having them shredded...anyone in the Houston area interested in taking these off my hands? If so, email me at the above and show subject line as "Books for Home Staging"