9 Tips for Staging a House for Sale

Selling a home can feel like setting the stage for the performance of a lifetime. And in a way, it is. According to the National Association of Realtors, 58% of buyer’s agents said that home staging affected most buyers’ views of the home, while 31% said that home staging has an effect, but not always. But what exactly is home staging? And how can homeowners make the most of it? Read to find out check out our Compass Concierge for more details.

Fast facts about home staging

According to TheZebra.com, 82% of buyers’ agents stated that staging a home made it easier for buyers to envision the property as their future residence.
47% of real estate agents believe that home staging influenced most buyers’ perception of the home.
In 2019, the average amount spent on home staging was $400.
The two least crucial rooms to stage are the home office and guest bedrooms.
Homes that are professionally staged spend 73% less time on the market compared to unstaged homes.
Homes staged before being listed sell for 25% more than unstaged homes.

Understanding home staging

Home staging is the art of preparing and presenting a home for sale in a way that highlights its strengths and downplays any weaknesses. It’s not just about decluttering or repainting. It’s about creating an environment where potential buyers can instantly envision themselves living and making memories.

The significance of home staging

The heart and soul of home staging is all about creating emotional connections. When buyers walk into a home and feel an instant attachment, the chance of them making an offer rises dramatically. It’s not just about showcasing the space but making the home feel warm, inviting, and truly lived in.

Exploring your staging choices

There are several routes you can take when deciding to stage your home. From DIY methods to hiring professionals, the spectrum of choices ensures there’s something for everyone, depending on budget and preference.

Considering DIY home staging

Of course, homeowners can opt to stage their homes themselves. With a keen eye for design and a good understanding of buyer psychology, one can effectively stage a home. It’s essential, however, to be objective and look at the home from a buyer’s perspective, ensuring that personal tastes and sentiments don’t overshadow the primary goal of appealing to a wide range of potential buyers.

The role of real estate agents in staging

Some real estate agents offer home staging as part of their service package. They often have a good sense of what buyers in the area are looking for and can provide guidance or even hands-on help in setting the stage for a successful sale. However, their expertise might be more in selling than design, so homeowners should evaluate the quality of the staging services offered.

Insights into professional home stagers

Professional home stagers are like the directors of the home-selling theater. They possess specialized knowledge and training in making homes market-ready. From selecting the right furniture to creating an emotional impact with accessories and colors, their job is to make sure your home stands out in the crowded real estate marketplace.

Evaluating the value of home staging

With homes that are professionally staged spending significantly less time on the market and selling for considerably more, the benefits clearly outweigh the costs. It’s about creating a lasting first impression and making potential buyers fall in love at first sight.

Budget-friendly staging tips

For homeowners on a tight budget, there are numerous ways to stage a home without breaking the bank. Consider repurposing existing furniture, decluttering, and deep cleaning. Little touches like fresh flowers or a new welcome mat can make a world of difference.

Tips for staging a home for photographs

In today’s digital age, online listings are the new first impressions. Hence, staging a home for photos is crucial. Good lighting, avoiding overly personal items in shots, and showcasing the home’s best features are paramount. Remember, these photos will either draw potential buyers in or turn them away. Also checkout our Expert Waterfront Guide.

Expert home staging tips

Selling a home is akin to putting up a performance; like any grand act, it demands the right setting. Home staging creates this ambiance, inviting potential buyers to visualize their future in the space. Here are expert home staging tips to create that magnetic pull.

Declutter

A well-staged home starts with decluttering. Potential buyers want to envision their own life in the space, not navigate through another’s. Clean out unnecessary furniture, excessive ornaments, and personal photographs. The aim is to make each room feel spacious and open, inviting future buyers to imagine their own treasures filling the space.

Deep clean

A spic-and-span home speaks to its upkeep and value. Hardwood floors should gleam, windows should let in more natural light, and countertops should shine. Remember, as many potential buyers will scrutinize every nook and cranny, cleanliness becomes your silent salesperson.

Patch and repair

A fresh coat of paint, mending that crack on the wall, or fixing that wobbly knob can dramatically change a prospective buyer’s view. The house doesn’t just look move-in ready but feels it.

Depersonalize the space

Family photos and day-to-day artifacts can be distracting. Store away family portraits and personal items. Let buyers imagine their own memories unfolding within the walls.

Choose neutral colors

While your personal style might lean towards bold and bright, most buyers prefer a neutral palette. Light-colored curtains, soft wall colors, and minimal patterns create a calming, universal appeal.

Make use of natural lighting

Natural light can transform a space, making it look bigger, warmer, and more welcoming. Pull back dark curtains, hang light-colored ones, and ensure windows are sparkling clean to let in more light.

Rearrange your furniture

Pull furniture away from walls, reposition table lamps for cozy reading corners, and add throw pillows for a touch of warmth. The goal is to create an easy flow that guides prospective buyers through the house.

Make sure rooms are well-defined

Each room should have a clear purpose. Whether it’s an entertainment room, a finished basement, or a master bedroom, buyers should instantly recognize its function.

Improve curb appeal

First impressions last. Freshly mowed lawns, potted plants near the front door, and a well-maintained outdoor living space can dramatically increase a home’s selling price.

What should you not do when staging a house?

Avoid using too many personal photographs or family photographs in common areas.
Don’t forget to check small details like a down toilet seat or the cleanliness of children’s bedrooms.
Steer clear of dark curtains, which can make a room feel closed off. Instead, opt for white shower curtains or light-colored ones.
Overdecorating can make a space feel cluttered. Less is often more.
Neglecting outdoor furniture or the garden can hinder your home staging efforts.

Frequently asked questions about home staging

What happens to furniture after staging?

Many sellers wonder about the aftermath of their home staging efforts. Often, the furniture used for staging, especially if provided by a home staging service, is rented. Once the home is sold, the rented furniture is returned.

Is it better to sell a house empty or staged?

Staged homes often sell faster and for more money than those that are empty. An empty space can feel cold, whereas a well-staged home allows buyers to visualize its potential.

Should you set the table when staging a home?

Yes, especially in the dining room. Setting the table can make the space inviting and help future buyers envision family gatherings or festive dinners in their new home.

What is the difference between home staging and interior design?

While both home staging and interior design focus on aesthetics, they serve different purposes. Home staging is about broad appeal, making the home attractive to as many potential buyers as possible. Interior design is about personalizing a space to suit the specific tastes and needs of the homeowner.

In conclusion, home staging isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about evoking emotion. It’s the subtle art of making potential buyers feel at home and helping them visualize their future within the walls of a house they’ve just stepped into for the first time. Whether you’re following DIY home staging tips or working with professional home stagers, the goal remains clear: selling your home quickly and at the best price possible.

About Becky Sirigotis

Becky Sirigotis is an expert Anna Maria Island real estate agent with a rich financial planning history, is celebrated for her expertise in luxury real estate. If you’re looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Florida real estate market, contact Becky Sirigotis today.