You’ve probably heard that properly staging your home can significantly impact how quickly and effectively it sells. But what exactly does home staging entail, and is it truly worth your time and effort?
Here are a few key FAQs to help you determine how much focus you should place on staging as you prepare for your move.
What is Home Staging?
Home staging involves arranging and decorating your space to emphasize its best features and create an inviting atmosphere for potential buyers. It can range from minor updates to more elaborate transformations, depending on your needs and budget.
How Can Staging Help Me Sell My House?
Research shows that effective staging can significantly impact the sale of your home. By showcasing your property in its best light, staging can attract more buyers, leading to a quicker sale and potentially a higher sale price compared to an unstaged home (see visual):
What Are My Staging Options?
Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore your options. One of the most common approaches is to rely on your agent’s expertise. They have firsthand knowledge of what buyers are looking for, as they’re constantly attending showings and receiving feedback. Their insight is invaluable in preparing your home for the market. Basic staging with an agent typically involves their guidance on how to:
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Declutter and depersonalize by removing personal photos and items
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Rearrange furniture to enhance the room’s flow and create a sense of space
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Update accessories by adding plants, shifting artwork, or repositioning decorative pieces
Full-service staging is another option if your home requires more detailed attention. In this case, you hire a professional stager or staging company to assess your space, provide recommendations, and handle the entire process for you. While this approach is more comprehensive, it also comes at a higher cost. This is because it often involves renting furniture and decor to completely transform the space.
How Do I Choose the Right Option?
Unsure which option is best for you? Don’t worry—you don’t have to decide alone. Your real estate agent can help you determine which level of staging will have the greatest impact on your home and its specific market.
Your agent can guide you in deciding whether professional staging is worth the investment or if you can achieve great results with just their advice. Here are some of the factors they’ll consider to help make that determination:
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Market Conditions: In a slower market, going all in on staging can make your home stand out and appear move-in ready, attracting buyers who may otherwise hesitate. If the market is hot and homes are selling quickly, you may get by with less.
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Your Home’s Condition: If your home is vacant or has an unconventional layout, hiring a professional stager can help by bringing in the right furniture and decor, allowing buyers to fully envision its potential.
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Your Budget: Staging costs can vary by location, so discussing your budget with your agent is key. A well-staged home can make the difference between a quick sale and your home lingering on the market. However, if your budget is tight, your agent can suggest affordable DIY staging ideas that can still make a big impact.