Deposits, contracts, and getting paid on time

You can do the most beautiful staging work in your market and still struggle if you're constantly chasing payments. Getting paid on time isn't about being pushy — it's about having a system. Here's how to build one.

Always take a deposit

A deposit before you install protects you from cancellations and confirms the client is serious. It also means you're never fully exposed on inventory you've committed to a job.

Put it in writing

A simple contract that spells out scope, staging period, fees, and what happens if a listing runs long removes the awkward conversations later. Clarity up front prevents disputes at the end.

Invoice immediately and automate follow-up

Send the invoice the moment terms are met, not next week when you remember. Then let automated reminders do the chasing for you — most late payments are forgetfulness, not refusal.

Getting paid shouldn't be a part-time job. It should be a system running quietly in the background.

Make it effortless to pay

The easier you make payment — a clear invoice, an obvious button, saved details — the faster the money comes in. Friction is the enemy of cash flow.