In today’s market, first impressions matter more than ever. While pricing and location will always drive a buyer’s interest, how a home is presented can make or break a sale, and that’s where home staging comes in.
What Is Home Staging, and Why Does It Work?
Home staging is more than just decorating. It’s a strategic way to highlight a home’s best features while helping potential buyers visualize themselves living there. Staging takes the guesswork out of imagining how spaces function, especially in vacant homes, and replaces that with an emotional connection.
According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 81% of buyer’s agents say staging helps buyers picture the property as a future home. And that connection? It can lead to faster sales and higher offers.
The ROI of Staging
Is staging worth the investment? In many cases, absolutely. The report found that 20% of sellers’ agents said staging increased the dollar value of offers by 1%–5%, while 14% saw offers jump 6%–10%. In a competitive market, that added value can mean thousands of extra dollars in your pocket.
Even basic staging, such as decluttering, freshening up paint, and adding a few modern touches, can have a big impact.
Key Rooms to Focus On
Not every room needs to be professionally staged, but certain spaces make a bigger impact. Focus on:
- The living room – It’s often the emotional heart of the home.
- The kitchen – Clear counters and light styling can make a kitchen feel spacious and inviting.
- The primary bedroom – A calm, comfortable retreat appeals to nearly all buyers.
- The entryway – First impressions start here.
Vacant Homes Need It Most
Empty homes can feel cold and hard to imagine living in. Staging adds warmth, scale, and function.
Staging Isn’t Just for Luxury Listings
While staging has long been associated with high-end homes, it’s now common across all price points. Whether you’re selling a cozy cottage or a spacious custom build, staging can be the boost that sets your listing apart.
Thinking of Selling?
Our team at New Waters Realty can guide you through every step, from pricing and prepping your home to staging tips that highlight what makes your home special.