Ultimate Guide To Staging A Home + 20 Easy Tips

Staging a home, or home staging, is the process of preparing a property for sale by enhancing its visual appeal and creating an inviting atmosphere.

The goal of staging is to show off the best parts of the house and make potential buyers feel connected to it. 

This can be done by getting rid of clutter and personal items, rearranging furniture, adding decorations, and making small repairs or improvements. 

Staging can help increase how much a home is thought to be worth and make it more appealing to potential buyers by putting it in its best light. 

Real estate professionals frequently use staging, which can be a powerful tool for homeowners who want to sell their property quickly and for the highest price.

Staging a house also refers to the process of preparing a house for sale by decorating and arranging the furniture and decor to showcase the home’s best features and appeal to potential buyers.

Here are some tips for staging a home:

1. Declutter

Remove any excess furniture and personal belongings to create a more spacious and clean environment. This can make the home feel more inviting to potential buyers.

Decluttering is an essential step in home staging. Clutter can make a home look smaller, darker, and less appealing to potential buyers.

When staging a home, the goal is to create a spacious, airy, and inviting atmosphere that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

Decluttering involves removing excess items from the home and organizing what remains. This includes items such as extra furniture, personal items, knick-knacks, and general clutter that can accumulate over time. 

Homeowners may need to rent a storage unit to temporarily store items that they want to keep but that may detract from the home’s appearance during the staging process.

Also read: How To Start Investing In Rental Properties In 2023

By decluttering, the home’s best features can be emphasized, such as the amount of storage space, the size of the rooms, and the home’s overall flow. 

It also makes it easier for potential buyers to see themselves living in the home and imagine how they would use the space.

Overall, decluttering is a critical step in staging a home as it can help to create a clean, organized, and inviting space that is more appealing to potential buyers.

2. Clean

Make sure the house is thoroughly cleaned before staging. This includes deep cleaning carpets, washing windows, and scrubbing bathrooms and kitchens. Cleaning is another crucial step in staging a home. 

A clean home not only looks better but can also help to create a healthy and welcoming atmosphere. Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate in a home over time and can make a home appear dingy, neglected, and uninviting.

When staging a home, it’s important to thoroughly clean every room, including floors, walls, ceilings, and surfaces. 

This includes deep cleaning carpets and rugs, polishing floors, scrubbing bathrooms and kitchens, and wiping down all surfaces.

In addition, homeowners should ensure that the home is free from any unpleasant odors, such as pet smells, cigarette smoke, or cooking odors.

Cleaning is also an opportunity to identify and address any minor repairs or maintenance issues in the home. 

For example, a squeaky door or a leaky faucet may seem like small issues, but they can detract from the overall impression of the home and create a negative impression on potential buyers.

Overall, cleaning is an essential step in staging a home. A clean and well-maintained home can make a positive impression on potential buyers and can help to showcase the home’s best features.

3. Repairs and Maintenance

Fix any broken or damaged items in the home. This includes leaky faucets, broken light fixtures, or cracked tiles. Repairs and maintenance are important steps in staging a home. Minor repairs and updates can help to increase the value of the property and create a more appealing atmosphere for potential buyers.

During the staging process, it’s important to identify and address any minor repairs or maintenance issues that may detract from the home’s appearance or functionality.

This includes fixing leaky faucets, repairing holes in walls, replacing broken tiles, and addressing any electrical or plumbing issues.

In addition to repairs, it may also be necessary to make minor updates or improvements to the home. This could include updating light fixtures, replacing outdated appliances, or repainting walls to create a more modern and appealing look.

By addressing repairs and maintenance issues, homeowners can help to create a home that is move-in ready and attractive to potential buyers. This can increase the perceived value of the property and help to speed up the sale process.

Overall, repairs and maintenance are important steps in staging a home. By taking the time to address these issues, homeowners can help to create a home that is in good condition, appealing to potential buyers, and ready for a quick sale.

4. Neutralizing 

This is an important step in staging a home. It means making the space less personal and giving it a neutral color scheme that will appeal to a wide range of buyers.

Neutralizing a home means getting rid of family photos, artwork, and other personal items that might make it hard for potential buyers to picture themselves living there. This allows buyers to focus on the home’s features and potential, rather than being distracted by the current homeowner’s personal style or taste.

In addition, neutralizing the space involves creating a neutral color palette throughout the home. This could mean repainting walls in a neutral color, such as beige, gray, or white, and replacing bold or brightly colored decor with more neutral items.

By neutralizing a home, the owner can make it look more inviting and attractive, making it easier for potential buyers to imagine themselves living there.

This can make the house seem more valuable and make it more appealing to a wider range of possible buyers.

Overall, neutralizing is an important step in staging a home, as it can help to create a clean, fresh, and appealing space that allows potential buyers to envision themselves in the home.

5. Enhance Curb Appeal

Enhancing curb appeal is another important step in staging a home. Curb appeal refers to the appearance of the exterior of the home, including the landscaping, front entryway, and overall condition of the property.

The first impression of a home is crucial, and enhancing curb appeal can help to create a positive and inviting first impression for potential buyers. This could involve tasks such as landscaping the yard, adding fresh mulch or flowers, repainting the front door, and ensuring that the exterior of the home is clean and well-maintained.

In addition, it’s important to ensure that the home’s exterior is well-lit, as this can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, particularly during evening showings.

By enhancing curb appeal, homeowners can make a positive impression on potential buyers before they even enter the home. This can increase the perceived value of the property and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Overall, enhancing curb appeal is an important step in staging a home, as it can help to create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere that sets the tone for the rest of the home viewing experience.

6. Adding Some Finishing Touches

Adding finishing touches is the final step in staging a home and can help to create a cohesive and polished look throughout the space. Finishing touches could include adding decorative items such as pillows, throws, and artwork that complement the overall style of the home.

It’s important to keep in mind that less is often more when it comes to adding finishing touches. Too many decorative items can create clutter and distract from the home’s features, while a few well-placed items can add warmth and personality to the space.

When adding finishing touches, it’s important to keep the home’s target market in mind. For example, if the home is being marketed towards families, adding child-friendly decor and accessories, such as a colorful play mat or a cozy reading nook, could help to create a more inviting atmosphere.

Overall, adding finishing touches is an important step in staging a home, as it can help tie together the overall look and feel of the space and create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for potential buyers.

7. Remove Odors

Removing odors is an important step in staging a home, as unpleasant smells can be a major turn-off for potential buyers. Odors can come from a variety of sources, such as pets, cooking, smoking, or mold and mildew.

To remove odors, homeowners should start by identifying the source of the smell and addressing it directly. This could involve deep cleaning carpets, upholstery, and curtains; using air purifiers to filter out allergens and odors, and airing out the home to allow fresh air to circulate.

Homeowners can also use baking soda, vinegar, or essential oils, which are all-natural, to get rid of smells. You can put baking soda on carpets before vacuuming, use a vinegar solution to clean surfaces, or diffuse essential oils to make the air smell better.

By removing odors, homeowners can help create a clean, fresh-smelling home that is appealing to potential buyers. This can increase the perceived value of the property and make it more attractive to a broader range of buyers.

Overall, removing odors is an important step in staging a home, as it can help create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for a successful home viewing experience.

8. Create Focal Points

Creating focal points is an important aspect of staging a home, as it can help to highlight the best features of the space and draw potential buyers’ attention to them. 

Focal points could be architectural details such as a fireplace, a bay window, or an accent wall, or they could be decorative elements such as a piece of artwork or a statement piece of furniture.

When creating focal points, it’s important to choose items or features that are in good condition and visually appealing.

These should be highlighted through strategic placement and lighting, such as by positioning a piece of artwork above a fireplace or using accent lighting to draw attention to a feature wall.

In addition, creating focal points can help to create a sense of flow and continuity throughout the space. By highlighting key features in each room, homeowners can create a cohesive and polished look that is appealing to potential buyers

By creating focal points, homeowners can help to showcase the unique and desirable features of the home and make it stand out from other properties on the market. This can increase the perceived value of the property and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Overall, creating focal points is an important step in staging a home, as it can help create a visually appealing and cohesive look that highlights the best features of the space.

9. Create A Welcoming Entrance

Creating a welcoming entrance is an important aspect of staging a home, as it sets the tone for the rest of the home viewing experience.

A well-designed and inviting entrance can make a positive first impression on potential buyers and make them feel welcomed and comfortable as they enter the home.

To create a welcoming entrance, homeowners can start by ensuring that the area is clean, clutter-free, and well-lit. 

This could involve tasks such as cleaning the front door and porch, adding a new welcome mat, and replacing any burnt-out light bulbs. In addition, homeowners can add some personal touches, such as potted plants or a wreath on the door, to add warmth and personality to the space.

Furniture and accessories can also be used to create a welcoming entrance. For example, a console table or bench can be used to create a focal point and provide a place for potential buyers to set down their belongings.

Decorative accessories such as mirrors, artwork, or vases can also be used to add interest and create a cohesive look.

By creating a welcoming entrance, homeowners can help to make a positive first impression on potential buyers and set the tone for the rest of the home viewing experience. This can increase the perceived value of the property and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Overall, creating a welcoming entrance is an important step in staging a home, as it can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes potential buyers feel welcomed and comfortable as they enter the space.

10. Add Plants

Adding plants is a great way to enhance the overall look and feel of a home when staging it for sale. Plants can add color, texture, and natural beauty to a space, and they can also help to improve air quality and create a sense of calm and relaxation.

When choosing plants for staging a home, it’s important to select low-maintenance options that are easy to care for and can thrive in the conditions of the space. 

Some great options for indoor plants include snake plants, pothos, and succulents, which are all known for their low-maintenance requirements and ability to thrive in a variety of light conditions.

Plants can be used in a variety of ways when staging a home. They can be placed on shelves or tables, hung from the ceiling or walls, or placed in decorative planters to create a statement piece. Plants can also be used to fill empty spaces or add visual interest to a room.

In addition to their decorative benefits, plants can also help to create a healthier and more inviting indoor environment. 

By absorbing pollutants and improving air quality, plants can help to create a more comfortable and welcoming space that is appealing to potential buyers.

Overall, adding plants is an effective way to enhance the look and feel of a home when staging it for sale. By adding natural beauty and improving air quality, plants can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that is attractive to potential buyers.

11. Fix Any Damage

Repair any broken or damaged items in the home. This includes leaky faucets, broken light fixtures, or cracked tiles.

12. Fresh Coat Of Paint

A fresh coat of paint can go a long way toward making a home look fresh and clean.

13. Rearrange Furniture

Arrange furniture in a way that maximizes working space and highlights the home’s best features.

14. Add Natural Light

Let in as much natural light as possible by opening blinds and curtains.

15. Enhance Lighting

Make sure all light fixtures are working properly, and add lamps or another lighting to brighten up darker areas.

16. Clean And Organize Closets

Tidy up and organize closets to show off the storage space.

17. Make The Bed

Make sure the beds are made and look inviting.

18. Add Throw Pillows And Blankets

Use decorative pillows and throws to add color and texture to the space.

19. Use Mirrors

Mirrors can make a space look larger and brighter.

20. Showcase Storage Space and Outdoor Spaces

Show off storage space in the home, such as closets and cabinets.

If the home has an outdoor space, such as a patio or deck, make sure it is staged with furniture and decor.

Is Staging A Home Important For Home Owners

Staging a home can be important for homeowners who are looking to sell their property. The main purpose of staging is to make the home look more attractive to potential buyers, which can help to increase the likelihood of a sale and potentially even raise the selling price.

When a home is staged, it is typically cleaned, decluttered, and decorated in a way that emphasizes the positive features of the property and makes it easier for buyers to imagine themselves living there.

This can include things like rearranging furniture, adding decorative accents, and improving the lighting.

Studies have shown that staged homes tend to sell more quickly and for a higher price than homes that are not staged. 

Also read: 15+ Real Estate Hack To Sell A Property Faster

Additionally, staging can help to create a positive first impression for potential buyers, which can be crucial in a competitive real estate market.

However, staging can also be time-consuming and expensive, and not all homeowners may see a significant return on investment. 

Ultimately, the decision to stage a home will depend on a variety of factors, including the local real estate market, the condition of the property, and the homeowner’s budget and priorities.

Advantages Of Staging A Home

Staging a home can offer several advantages to homeowners who are looking to sell their property. Here are some of the key benefits of staging a home:

• Makes The Home More Appealing: By decluttering, cleaning, and decorating the home in a way that showcases its best features, staging can make the home look more attractive to potential buyers.
• Helps Buyers Envision Themselves Living In The Home: Staging can help buyers to see the potential of the home and imagine how they could use the space.
• Makes The Home Appear Larger: By rearranging furniture and using appropriate lighting, staging can help to make small rooms appear larger and more spacious.
• Highlights Unique Features: Staging can draw attention to unique features of the home, such as architectural details or a beautiful view, which might otherwise go unnoticed.
• Increases Perceived Value: A well-staged home can make buyers feel that the home is worth more than its asking price, potentially resulting in a higher sale price.
• Helps Sell The Home More Quickly: A staged home can make a positive first impression on potential buyers, which can help to generate more interest and sell the home more quickly.

Overall, staging a home can be a smart investment for homeowners who want to sell their property quickly and for the best possible price.

The Disadvantages Of Home Staging

While staging a home can have many advantages, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. Here are a few:

• Can Be Expensive: Depending on the extent of the staging, it can be costly to hire a professional stager, rent furniture or decor, or make necessary repairs or upgrades to the home.
• Time-Consuming: Staging a home can take a significant amount of time and effort, especially for homeowners who are already busy with other responsibilities.
• May Require Storage Or Temporary Housing: If a homeowner needs to move out of their home temporarily to stage it, they may need to pay for storage or temporary housing during that time.
• May Not Be Necessary: Depending on the condition of the home and the local real estate market, staging may not be necessary or may not provide a significant return on investment.
• Can be stressful: The process of staging a home and preparing it for sale can be stressful, especially for homeowners who are emotionally attached to their property.
• May Not Reflect The Buyer’s Taste: The decor and style of a staged home may not appeal to all potential buyers, which could potentially turn off some interested parties.

The End

In the end, the decision to stage a home will depend on a number of things, such as the homeowner’s budget, the local real estate market, and the condition of the property. 

Before making a decision, homeowners should carefully think about both the pros and cons of staging.