Now that buyers have more options for their move, you need to be a bit more intentional about making sure your house looks its best when you sell. And proper staging can be a great way to do just that.
What Is Home Staging?
It’s not about making your house look super trendy or like it belongs in a magazine. It’s about helping it feel welcoming and move-in ready, so it’s easy for buyers to picture themselves living there.
It’s important to understand there’s a range when it comes to staging. It can include everything from simple tweaks to more extensive setups, depending on your needs and budget. But a little bit of time, effort, and money invested in this process can really make a difference when you sell – especially in today’s market.
A study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows staged homes sell faster and for more money than homes that aren’t staged at all.
Which Rooms Matter Most?
The best part is, odds are you don’t have to stage your whole house to make an impact. According to NAR, here’s where buyers’ agents say staging can make the biggest difference.
As you can see, agents who talk to buyers regularly agree—the most important spaces to stage are the rooms where buyers will spend the most time, like the living room, primary bedroom, and kitchen.
While this can give you a good general idea of what may be worth it and what’s probably not, it can’t match a local agent’s expertise.
How an Agent Helps You Decide What You Need To Do
Agents are experts on what buyers are looking for in your specific area, because they hear that feedback all the time—during showings, home tours, and conversations with other agents. They’ll use those insights to give you tailored advice on what areas in your home may need a little extra staging help, such as:
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Decluttering and depersonalizing by removing photos and personal items
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Arranging furniture to improve flow and make rooms feel bigger
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Adding plants, moving artwork, or re-styling accessories for a fresh look
In many cases, your agent’s guidance will be all the staging advice you need. But if your home is vacant or needs a more significant transformation, they can help you decide if hiring a professional stager is worth it. Just know that extra help comes with a price. NAR reports:
“The median dollar value spent when using a staging service was $1,500, compared to $500 when the sellers’ agent personally staged the home.”
Your agent will help you weigh the costs and benefits based on your home’s condition, your budget, and how fast similar homes are selling nearby.
Bottom Line
Staging doesn’t have to be over-the-top or expensive. It just needs to help buyers feel at home. A great agent will help you determine the right level of staging to attract serious buyers and stand out in today’s market.
Which room in your house do you think would make the biggest impression on a buyer?
Get an agent to walk through your home with you and go over what will make your house shine.
