Learn how The Marc Palo Alto eliminated their physical model unit, boosted ROI, and enhanced the leasing experience with SparX AR Staging.
Client
The Marc Palo Alto
Property Owner
Marcus & Millichap
Management Co.
FPI Management
Duration
Since Q3 2022
The Challenge
For over 16 years, this high-demand property relied on a traditional 1-bedroom model unit to attract renters. While once effective, this approach brought several growing challenges:
🛋️ Furniture Refresh
Every 4–5 years: $25,000–$40,000
🧹 Labor & Maintenance
Ongoing, time-consuming staging and upkeep
💸 Lost Rental Income
Up to $4,500/month (or $4,700 at market rate)
🔒 Limited Flexibility
Only one layout shown—restricts appeal and options
The SparX Solution
In late 2022, the team implemented SparX AR Staging to replace their static model with a scalable, virtual experience. For just a few hundred dollars per month, SparX enabled the team to stage any unit, any time—instantly and beautifully.
Key Benefits Realized
💰 $50,000+ Annual Savings
Eliminated model unit setup, furniture, and rental loss.
⚡ Increased Leasing Velocity
Every unit is lease-ready—no more holding one back as a model.
🌟 Enhanced Prospect Experience
Virtual staging lets renters visualize any layout—beautifully furnished.
Leasing Team Feedback
“After 16 years with a model unit, the savings from converting it—plus the rental income—were incredible. SparX made it easy. Prospects can now visualize the space, and the virtual staging brings it to life instantly.”
— Linda Nguyen, Senior Community Director, The Marc – FPI Management
According to Linda, the leasing team uses SparX throughout the entire leasing journey. The response from renters? “It’s cool and neat!”
The Bottom Line
By replacing their physical model unit with SparX AR Staging, The Marc Palo Alto has:
- ✔️ Saved over $50,000/year in hidden costs
- ✔️ Opened up revenue-generating space
- ✔️ Transformed the entire leasing experience
SparX is now a core part of their leasing strategy—and they’re not looking back.