Stage to Sell: 7 Proven Steps to Attract Buyers and Boost Offers

81% of buyers’ agents report staging helps buyers envision themselves living in a home.[1]

Selling your home quickly and at the right price takes more than just listing it online. To attract buyers and secure top offers, your property needs to stand out. That’s where home staging — the process of strategically preparing a home for sale — comes in. Research shows that it can both increase a home’s sale price and shorten the time it spends on the market.

As a seller, you can choose to stage your home yourself or to work with a professional stager. Whichever option you choose, the goal is to show off your home’s best qualities and make a lasting impression.

Getting ready to list your home? Here are seven essential strategies to turn it into a buyer’s dream.

1. Declutter and Depersonalize
   Create a clean, neutral space by removing personal items, family photos, and excess furniture. Consider renting a storage unit if needed to keep things tidy while your home is on the market.
2. Deep Clean and Repair
   A sparkling clean home leaves a lasting impression. Deep clean every room, paying special attention to areas like baseboards, windows, and appliances. Fix minor imperfections like chipped paint, loose tiles, and worn hardware.
3. Pick Up a Paintbrush
   Repaint walls in neutral tones like beiges and off-whites to appeal to the widest range of buyers. Consider repainting outdated cabinets in white or soft gray for a modern and updated look.[2]
4. Enhance Curb Appeal
   Make a strong first impression with a well-maintained exterior. Power wash siding and walkways, touch up any chipped paint, and tidy up your landscaping by removing dead plants and adding seasonal color.[3]
5. Stage Key Rooms
   Focus on the living room, primary bedroom, and kitchen, as these spaces are most important to buyers.[1] Arrange furniture to create an open and inviting flow, and use rugs to define spaces and add warmth.
6. Find Your Best Light
   Maximize natural light by removing heavy window treatments — use sheer curtains or light-filtering shades for a softer touch. Incorporate a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting with warm bulbs to create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout your home.[4]
7. Photography
   High-quality photos are essential in today’s digital world. Hire a professional photographer to capture your staged home at its best, showcasing its features and potential. Consider using videos or virtual tours to provide an immersive experience for potential buyers.

Get Started Today

Ready to stage your home for a successful sale? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation! We’ll assess your home’s unique needs, provide expert advice on maximizing its appeal, and connect you with trusted professionals who can help you achieve your selling goals. Let’s work together to make your home stand out and attract the best offers!

Sources:

1. National Association of Realtors – https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2023-profile-of-home-staging-03-30-2023.pdf
2. Zillow – https://www.zillow.com/learn/how-to-stage-house-to-sell/
3. National Association of Realtors – https://cdn.nar.realtor//sites/default/files/documents/2023-03-remodeling-impact-outdoor-features-03-17-2023.pdf

Martha Stewart – https://www.marthastewart.com/2126982/how-to-layer-your-lighting