If you’re preparing to sell your home, you’ve probably heard the advice: stage it before you list it. But is home staging really worth it? The answer is a resounding yes… and the numbers back it up.
What Is Home Staging?
Home staging is the process of strategically arranging furniture, décor, and accessories to highlight a home’s strengths and help potential buyers visualize themselves living there. It can be as simple as decluttering and adding a few decorative touches, or as comprehensive as bringing in an entire suite of furniture and artwork to fill a vacant property.
Staged Homes Sell Faster
Let’s talk numbers. According to a 2023 survey from the National Association of Realtors (NAR):
- 81% of buyers’ agents said staging made it easier for buyers to visualize the property as a future home.
- Homes that are staged spend 73% less time on the market compared to non-staged homes.
- Professionally staged homes sell in an average of 18 days, compared to 48 days for non-staged properties.
Time is money in real estate and staging helps you save both.
Staged Homes Sell for More
It’s not just about speed. Staging can also have a powerful impact on your bottom line.
- NAR data shows that 23% of sellers’ agents said staging increased the dollar value offered by buyers by 1% to 5% compared to similar unstaged homes.
- A report from RESA (Real Estate Staging Association) found that staged homes sell for up to 10% more than vacant, non-staged listings.
That could mean thousands of dollars more in your pocket depending on your list price. Not a bad return on a modest investment.
The Emotional Edge
Today’s buyers shop with their eyes and their emotions. A well-staged home creates an inviting atmosphere that connects buyers emotionally to the space. It helps them picture morning coffee at the kitchen island, movie nights in the living room, and relaxing evenings on the patio. These connections often translate into quicker offers and fewer price reductions.
Vacant Homes Feel Cold and Forgettable
A vacant home, no matter how well-kept, can feel sterile and cold. Without furniture, it’s hard to gauge the scale of a room or imagine how the space would be used. Buyers may focus on flaws (like wall scuffs or outdated fixtures) rather than the home’s potential.
Staging brings warmth, purpose, and perspective to every room, making your home stand out in a sea of online listings and open houses.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to list your home, don’t overlook the power of presentation. Staging is more than just fluff, it’s a proven strategy to sell your home faster and for more money.
You only get one chance to make a first impression, make it count.
Need help getting started?
We can connect you with trusted local real estate experts who understand the power of staging and have the resources to help you sell your home for top dollar. Whether you need help finding a stager, pricing your home right, or marketing it to the right buyers, our network of professionals is here to support you every step of the way.
