STAGING IS THE SECRET

In a previous post, we shared "A Tale of Two Prices",where we explained how we structure pricing to accommodate different types of clients—those who want the benefits of exclusivity and those who are more price-conscious. Our approach has always been clear: you can pay for top-tier attention and flexibility, or you can choose more affordable rates with fewer perks. But let’s face it, *every* client wants the best of both worlds—steep discounts and VIP treatment. And while we understand the desire, it rarely works out in practice.

The Steep Discount Fantasy

Many clients approach us with promises that they’ll be the easiest customers to work with. They assure us that they’ll pay on time, they won’t be a “pain in the neck,” and they’ll always be sweet and understanding. In return, they expect the most competitive pricing—after all, they’re such agreeable clients, right? And for a while, things may seem to run smoothly.

But then comes the moment when they start to "see the sausage being made". It’s usually once the project is in full swing—when they begin to notice all the complexities, the decisions that need to be made, the materials being used, and the pace of work—that their expectations shift. Suddenly, that easygoing attitude takes a back seat, and their desire for budget-friendly pricing collides with their newfound expectation for 'exclusive, first-class treatment'.

When Reality Sets In

It’s at this point that clients often decide they want the kind of attention reserved for those who pay top dollar. They want everything to be perfect—yet they still expect it at a novice-level price. They begin to demand things that were never part of the original agreement:

- Late-night phone calls to discuss minor details

- Daily check-ins via text or email for status updates

- Critiques of ongoing work, often based on what they’ve seen on edited TV shows or social media

- Unscheduled visits to the job site to “inspect” the work, which, while understandable, often disrupts the flow of labor and efficiency.

These intrusions—whether it’s asking for constant communication or showing up on the job site unexpectedly—slow down progress. And while it is their property, many clients don’t realize that these frequent interruptions actually cost them time and money in the long run. Every time the crew has to pause to give a tour or discuss minor details, the momentum of the project shifts, and what was originally on track can suddenly become delayed.

The Trade-Off Between Price and Perks

This is where the issue of pricing structure becomes so important. When clients choose the discounted route, they’re agreeing to certain limitations. Maybe the project won’t have the same level of around-the-clock attention, or maybe progress won’t be at breakneck speed because we have other clients and projects in the queue. When a client pays for exclusivity, they’re paying for our undivided attention, flexibility, and priority treatment. They are buying the peace of mind that comes with knowing that they come first, and that level of service comes at a cost.

But too often, those who opt for lower prices want to benefit from those same exclusivity perks—without paying for them. They want a tradesman who is always on-call, always ready to shift gears to their liking, but without the corresponding price tag. It’s a classic case of wanting to have your cake and eat it too.

Understanding the Value of Professionalism

The truth is, high-quality work takes time, planning, and expertise. While TV shows might make it seem like a flawless renovation happens in a 30-minute time frame, the reality is far more complex. Our job is to ensure the work is done correctly, safely, and efficiently—and that often requires meticulous coordination, especially when dealing with multiple clients and projects.

When a client steps onto a jobsite, they're not just stepping into thier own property; they're stepping into the workflow of a skilled professional who is trying to meet deadlines, manage materials, and keep the team on task. While we welcome input and collaboration, there is a time and a place for that—usually outlined at the beginning of the project. Constant interruptions, critiques, or late-night texts disrupt that process.

The Bottom Line

If you want the best of the best—impeccable service, priority attention, and flawless craftsmanship—those things come at a price. And that’s not just because we’re charging for materials or time; it’s because you’re paying for the luxury of exclusivity. If you’re more price-conscious and willing to be flexible, that’s perfectly fine too—but it’s important to keep in mind that flexibility and patience will be key to a smooth and successful project.

So next time you're considering which pricing option is right for you, remember that each comes with its own set of expectations. You can’t expect five-star service on a one-star budget. It’s all about finding the right balance, and at Staging is the Secret, we’re here to help you achieve just that.

— Greg