Staging Your Home to Sell:

Top 12 Tips from the Pros

Learn how to stage your home effectively to attract buyers and achieve a faster sale. Staging your home can make a significant impact, so don’t miss out on these valuable tips!

[Credit to Amy Fontinelle and Lea D. Uradu]

In the fast-paced world of real estate, staging your home can make all the difference in attracting potential buyers. Staging is a method of prepping your property for sale by highlighting its best features and creating an appealing environment for prospective buyers. It’s a game-changer, and in this blog, we’re going to share 12 expert tips to help you stage your home effectively and secure a quick sale.

What Is Home Staging?

Before we dive into the tips, let’s understand the concept of home staging. It’s not just about decorating; it’s about creating a visual narrative that lets buyers envision themselves living in your home. A well-staged home showcases the property’s strengths, conceals its flaws, and sets the stage for a successful sale.

Why Is Home Staging So Important?

The financial stakes are high when selling your home. Staging can significantly impact the selling price and the speed of the sale. Potential buyers are not just looking for a house; they’re seeking a place to fulfill their dreams and enhance their lifestyle. Staging creates an emotional connection, which can translate into more money for you.

12 Home-Staging Tips

Now, let’s get to the nitty-gritty of staging your home:

1. Clean

A spotless home conveys care and maintenance. Ensure every corner is pristine, and even older appliances should gleam.

2. Declutter

Remove unnecessary items that distract buyers and create a sense of limited space.

3. Depersonalize

Let buyers see themselves in your home by removing personal items.

4. Focus on Fresh

Add a touch of freshness with plants and eliminate any unpleasant odors.

5. Define Rooms

Clarify each room’s purpose to maximize space potential.

6. Wallpaper and Paint

Neutralize your walls to appeal to a broader audience.

7. Flooring

Invest in quality flooring, especially in common areas like the living room and kitchen.

8. Lighting

Showcase your home’s natural light and add fixtures where needed.

9. Furniture

Ensure furniture suits the room’s size and arrangement.

10. Walls and Ceilings

Repair any cracks to avoid raising red flags about structural issues.

11. Exterior

Enhance curb appeal with a well-maintained exterior, clean windows, and attractive landscaping.

12. Final Touches

Make your home warm and inviting with fresh flowers, good lighting, and fluffy towels.

The Benefits of Home Staging

Staging your home can lead to a higher selling price, quicker sales, and better online listings. It’s a cost-effective investment that can pay off substantially in the end.

Is It Better to Sell Empty or Staged?

While some prefer empty homes, staged homes tend to sell faster. Staging helps buyers visualize their future in the space.

How Expensive Is Home Staging?

The median cost for professional home staging is around $1,500, but expenses can vary. It’s typically worth spending between 1% to 3% of your home’s selling price.

In conclusion, home staging is a vital step in the selling process that shouldn’t be overlooked. By following these 12 tips, you can make your property more appealing to a broader range of buyers, potentially increasing your selling price and reducing your time on the market. Happy staging, and here’s to a successful sale!

By AMY FONTINELLE, Updated April 30, 2023
Reviewed by LEA D. URADU
https://www.investopedia.com/articles/mortgages-real-estate/08/staging-home.asp