Staging on Steroids is Newest Concept for Model Homes

Sudhoff says the ultra-staged environments will engage potential buyers.

HOUSTON—In addition to location, location, location, an architect’s design can be the difference between selling a home and having it languish on the market. One company would add staging to that list, with a twist on traditional staging companies. Just launched Hooker Home represents a collaboration between Jerry Hooker , a principal of the architectural, interiors and landscape firm, Mirador Group , and Jacob Sudhoff , president of Sudhoff Companies , an industry leader in consulting, marketing and sales for builder/developers. Sudhoff tells GlobeSt.com: “Our goal is to set a new standard in the market for model home décor, especially with regards to art and accessories. These unique, upscale environments will engage potential buyers, while generating ongoing interest and traffic through the pop-up element.” The concept, which will also activate listings as pop-up shops, as Sudhoff mentions, with unique and eclectic finds from around the world, is a natural extension for the duo. Mirador Group is the firm of record for several single and multifamily projects being sold by Sudhoff Companies. Hooker and Sudhoff frequently share travel experiences to find design and land planning inspiration, as well as to tour the showrooms of manufacturers that provide furniture, fixtures and cabinetry for their endeavors. “I’ve toured countless staged properties where the décor and details don’t relate to the space or simply don’t feel warm, welcoming or like a real home. Our goal is to take the generic and impersonal facets out of the equation with a curated collection of furniture, art and accessories that not only fits the residence, but also create a memorable environment,” says Hooker, a serial entrepreneur who eagerly awaits opportunities to design, decorate and sell his own speculative showcase listings. The first Hooker Home installation debuts later this month at Courtlandt Manor , a luxury townhome enclave in Montrose modeled after Wroxton Abbey in Banbury, England. In addition to touring the staged model of the landmark community built by Croix Homes and designed by Mirador Group, visitors will be able to browse and purchase a number of unique art works and an assortment of well-priced, custom and specially sourced furniture, and accessories such as an original painting from Milan or an adornment from Marrakech. The retail component is also where Sudhoff Companies sees an opportunity. “People are looking for experiences,” says Sudhoff. “A retail environment creates a world of new opportunities to generate ongoing traffic and consumer interest. We’re excited to recommend Hooker Homes to our clients, further adding to our turnkey portfolio of sales and marketing services.”