Home Staging: Because Your Home Deserves Better Than That Couch You Found on Craigslist

Written By KRISTINA DEBBS

Let’s face it: your home is not a museum, and it’s certainly not a time capsule from 1997. If you're trying to sell, it's time to stop pretending that your collection of mismatched furniture and questionable wall colors is "quaint." Enter: home staging.

📊 The Cold, Hard Stats (Because Numbers Don’t Lie)

Before we dive into the world of throw pillows and strategically placed plants, let's talk numbers. According to the National Association of Realtors, nearly half of sellers' agents reported that staging a home decreased its time on the market. Additionally, 20% of both buyers' and sellers' agents said home staging increased the dollar value offered by 1% to 5% compared to similar homes that weren't staged. Investopedia+5National Association of REALTORS®+5National Association of REALTORS®+5

But wait, there's more! A report by the Home Staging Institute found that over 65% of realtors believe home staging helps sell a house for more money, with the majority stating it increases the property's selling price anywhere from 1% to 10%. Home Staging Institute

And if you think staging is just a fancy term for fluffing pillows, think again. Homes that are staged sell 73% faster than those that aren't. Architectural Digest+4Home Staging Institute+4Worldmetrics+4

🛋️ The Do's and Don'ts of Home Staging

✅ Do: Declutter Like Your Life Depends On It

Buyers want to imagine their stuff in your space, not sift through your collection of Beanie Babies. Remove personal items, family photos, and that stack of unopened mail. A clean, clutter-free space feels more spacious and inviting. Latest news & breaking headlines+1Better Homes & Gardens+1 While this sounds like a relatively easy concept, many people can easily feel overwhelmed at the thought of where to even start. Take one room, one day at a time. Remember, less is more! Get a jump start on your packing by opting to put knickknacks away in boxes ahead of time, and designate a storage space, such as your garage, or basement, or attic, even a spare bedroom that can serve as a staging area until moving day. If you haven't used something in over a year and it doesn't hold sentimental value, it's time to let go. Donate it, sell it, or—if it's really questionable—toss it. Remember, less is more, it’s time to embrace the minimalist lifestyle! Also, remember to laugh at the chaos, dance around the boxes, and remember: you're not just moving stuff; you're moving forward.

❌ Don't: Overdo the Personal Touches

While your collection of porcelain cats might be dear to you, they can be a turn-off for potential buyers. Keep personal items to a minimum to allow buyers to envision themselves in the space.

✅ Do: Neutralize Your Color Palette

Bold colors can be polarizing. Opt for neutral tones that appeal to a broader audience. Think soft grays, beiges, and whites—colors that say, "I have taste," not "I was feeling adventurous." I am a fan of Sherwin Williams Origami White or Pure White! Check out how a fresh coat of white paint made such a huge impact in one of my clients’ homes!

❌ Don't: Ignore the Power of Lighting

A dark, dreary room is a deal-breaker. Ensure all rooms are well-lit, and consider adding lamps to brighten up dim spaces. Good lighting can make a room feel larger and more inviting. While we’re on the subject, ensure lightbulbs in overhead chandeliers, or above bathroom sinks, or that are in matching lamp sets in the same room, have the same color bulb and wattage. You don’t want one bulb radiating cool, sterile vibes while one is giving off a soft warm glow.

✅ Do: Highlight the Best Features

If your home has a beautiful fireplace or stunning hardwood floors, make sure they're the stars of the show. Arrange furniture to showcase these features and draw attention to them.

❌ Don't: Hide Flaws Under the Rug

Trying to cover up imperfections can backfire. Instead, address issues like scuffed walls or broken fixtures before staging. A well-maintained home shows buyers that it's move-in ready. Zebra Insurance Quotes+4Worldmetrics+4Investopedia+4 Not sure what needs to be done? Have no fear, that’s what a staging consult is for! Not only will I verbally suggest what needs to be done to get your home market ready, but I will also create a personalized checklist of action items that help you to get your home to the finish line!

💰 Return on Investment: Is Staging Worth It?

Absolutely. Investing in staging can yield significant returns. According to Architectural Digest, 85% of staged homes sold for 5% to 23% over their listing price. Additionally, homes that were staged before listing sold in just 23 days, compared to an average of 184 days for unstaged homes. Home Staging Institute+2Architectural Digest+2Zebra Insurance Quotes+2

Even a modest investment in staging can pay off. The Zebra reports that home staging brings in an 8-10% return on investment. Zebra Insurance Quotes One of the things I love about my business, is that every customer, every project, is totally unique. Their needs, their budgets, and their desired outcomes. This allows me to be creative from one job to the next. With virtually options for every budget from a staging consultation, to occupied home staging, to temporary photo day staging, to vacant home staging…there are so many options at all different price points! Many people think staging is a major investment, and it certainly can be, with the potential for an excellent return on that investment. BUT if you aren’t in a place to spend the big bucks, there are plenty of other options that will help you enter the market confidently. This home featured below was completely decluttered and staged using their own furnishings and went pending in only 14 days, in what most would consider to be a challenging market!

🛠️ DIY Staging: When to Roll Up Your Sleeves

Not everyone has the budget for professional staging services. In such cases, DIY staging can be effective. Focus on decluttering, deep cleaning, and rearranging existing furniture to create a welcoming atmosphere. Investing in a few key accessories, like fresh towels in the bathroom or a new shower curtain, can make a big difference.

🧠 Final Thoughts: Stage It Like You Mean It

Home staging isn't just about making your home look pretty—it's about making it irresistible. With the right approach, you can turn your home into a buyer's dream and sell it faster and for more money. So, ditch the clutter, embrace the neutral tones, and stage your home like it's the star of the show. After all, it deserves nothing less.

📝 Final Tip: Don't Skip the Staging

Skipping staging is like showing up to a job interview in pajamas—it's not going to end well. Investing in staging can make your home stand out in a crowded market and attract serious buyers. Remember, first impressions matter, and staging is your chance to make a memorable one.

🏡 Ready to Stage?

If you're ready to take the plunge and stage your home, consider consulting with a professional stager (like me!) or exploring DIY options. With the right approach, you can transform your space and increase its market value. To book a staging consultation today, email tcdallthingshome@gmail.com or call 941-713-5574. I’d be happy to help you in any way that I can!

📚 Sources

KRISTINA DEBBS
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Staging Your Home: Turning "Meh" Into "Marvelous!" on a Zero Budget