What Is Home Staging and Why Does It Matter?
Staging isn’t about turning your house into a showroom or making it ultra-trendy. It’s about creating a warm, inviting space that allows buyers to envision themselves living there.
The good news is staging can be as simple or elaborate as your budget allows. Small improvements—like decluttering, rearranging furniture, or adding fresh decor—can make a noticeable impact. And according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes that are staged tend to sell faster and at a higher price than those that aren’t.
The Rooms That Make the Biggest Impact
You don’t need to stage every room to see results. The key is focusing on the spaces that matter most to buyers. According to NAR, real estate agents say the living room, primary bedroom, and kitchen carry the most weight when it comes to buyer appeal.
These high-traffic areas set the tone for the home’s overall feel, making them worth the extra effort. A cozy and well-arranged living room, a spacious and serene bedroom, and a well-lit, functional kitchen can make a lasting impression on buyers.
How a Real Estate Agent Can Guide You
An experienced real estate agent knows what buyers in your area are looking for. They hear feedback from showings and tours regularly and can offer expert advice on how to stage your home effectively.
Depending on your home’s current setup, an agent might suggest simple tweaks like:
· Removing personal photos and excessive decor to create a more neutral feel
· Rearranging furniture to enhance the space and improve flow
· Adding plants, artwork, or accessories to make rooms feel more polished
If your home needs a more dramatic transformation—or if it’s vacant—your agent might recommend working with a professional stager. While this comes at an added cost, staged homes generally sell faster and for more money. According to NAR, sellers who hire a professional stager spend a median of $1,500, compared to $500 for staging done by their agent.
The Bottom Line
Staging doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. The goal is simply to make buyers feel at home the moment they step inside. A knowledgeable real estate agent will help you determine the right level of staging based on your home’s condition, local market trends, and your selling goals.
Which room in your home do you think would make the biggest impression on a buyer?
Let’s talk about how to make it shine!
