In order to evoke an emotional response, the Model must be designed in such a way as to seduce and shape the Prospect's reaction. The easiest and most obvious ways to achieve this is through color, music, smell, lighting,texture and natural elements. This is the foundation of good design, in my opinion.
The best way is through use of color. I understand the use of an Accent Wall and many management companies have a color set from which a Resident/Prospect can choose. I happen to promote any color and actually send the Resident to Sherwin Williams to select the paint of choice. A majority of apartment communities paint vacants a neutral color throughout and this is a welcoming color choice for most people; however, I use bold color palettes in Models. My favorite thing to do is paint a vaulted ceiling a light blue.
But there are little things you can do in your Model to elicit an emotional reaction, such as:
*Organizing the cabinets in kitchens - Use triangular shaped receptacles in a lower cabinet to turn it into the recycling container, as well as one side for basic trash
*Installing pull-outs in a linen cabinet for laundry - no more mixing whites and darks
*Installing cutting boards in a pull out drawer
*Using flameless candles on dressers and tables
*Placing fresh cut flowers in little containers beside the bed
*Directing the Prospect to the View from the balcony - not just saying, "What a great view!" but placing a table & chair set out these with an electric grill complete with chef's apron and long spatula on a hook on the balcony railing
*Putting hanging plants on the patio
*Theme your Model: Footprints scattered on the floor or wall leading the tour path in the unit with buckets of seashells and sand and a large beach umbrella on the patio. Creating Children's rooms instead of Offices, even a nursery. Painting a wall with chalkboard paint and writing fun stuff on it. Laying out games, blocks, an easel with blank paper and crayons for little ones to draw on ...
*Music - don't. No one has the same taste. The exception to this is playing something like Beach Boys with a beach theme Model
*Using a light room freshner throughout (not necessarily daily though!) or baking cookies is a favorite, especially for men. It's true!
Saul Bass said "Design is thinking made visual." What's the point of showing a Model if you don't accent it in all areas to showcase it?