At Tandem Senior Living Advisors, we continuously strive to deliver results that enhance our communities' appeal and drive consistently high occupancy rates. One shining example of our success is the strategic staging initiative undertaken for the 1-bedroom Elloree-style cottage model residence at The Columbia Presbyterian Community, one of six communities of Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina. This effort, completed in November 2024, underscores the importance of creative staging in inspiring prospective residents and improving occupancy outcomes.

A Strategic Investment in Appeal

To transform the 1-bedroom Elloree-style cottage (683 sq. ft.) into a model home, our team collaborated with Designer Sherrie Anderson, whose expertise brought this residence to life. The total investment included:

• Sherrie’s Design Time: $4,700
• Accessories: $4,600 (art, pillows, bedding, kitchen and bath accents, and dining accessories)
• Furniture: $10,000 (new pieces sourced from Furnitureland South, Jamestown, NC)

The total financial investment amounted to $19,700, ensuring a warm, welcoming, and stylishly staged space that resonated with prospective residents.

Impactful Results

The model home was installed on November 1, 2024 at that time there were two available cottages awaiting reservation: the 1-bedroom (model) and a 2-bedroom residence. Within three weeks, both cottages were reserved with deposits, signaling the undeniable influence of the staged model on decision-making.

Restoring Lost Revenue

Prior to the staging, both cottages had been unoccupied for over a year:

• 1-bedroom cottage: Vacant since October 15, 2023, resulting in lost revenue of $43,592.
• 2-bedroom cottage: Vacant since September 30, 2023, resulting in lost revenue of $65,246.

Together, these vacancies accounted for over $100,000 in lost monthly fee revenue over approximately 13 months. By securing deposits, resulting in future occupancy on both residences, the model home effectively halted further revenue loss.

Expanding Success to Florence

Building on this success, the model furnishings and accessories were relocated in mid-December to their sister community, The Florence Presbyterian Community, in Florence, SC. Among the four available cottage homes there is a 1-bedroom residence with a layout similar to the Columbia model. With this proven approach, the aim will be to replicate their success and accelerate reservation activity in Florence.

A Win-Win Outcome

The staging initiative for the 1-bedroom Elloree-style cottage at The Columbia Presbyterian Community highlights the value of investing in thoughtful, professional design to showcase available residences. This project not only inspired prospective residents with furnishing ideas but also delivered measurable financial results by filling long-vacant units.

As we bring this proven strategy to other communities, we’re eager to see similar success stories unfold. If you’re ready to explore how thoughtful staging can elevate occupancy and inspire your future residents, contact Tandem Senior Living Advisors today to discuss customized solutions for your community.