Does Staging Really Help Sell a Home? The Facts
If you're preparing to sell your home, you’ve likely heard about staging. But is it really worth the time and effort? In short—yes. Home staging can be a powerful tool in today’s real estate market, helping your home stand out, connect emotionally with buyers, and ultimately sell faster and for more money.
What Is Staging?
Staging is the process of preparing a home for sale by arranging furniture and décor in a way that showcases the space in its best light. It’s not about redecorating—it's about creating a neutral, inviting environment where buyers can imagine themselves living.
The Impact of Staging: What the Numbers Say
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According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 81% of buyers said home staging made it easier to visualize the property as their future home.
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Homes that are staged sell 73% faster on average than those that aren’t.
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Staged homes often receive offers that are 1–5% higher than comparable non-staged homes.
These statistics underline just how impactful staging can be, especially in a market where standing out matters more than ever.
Real-World Example
In a recent listing, a home that had been sitting on the market for over 60 days with no offers was professionally staged. Within two weeks, it received multiple showings and sold for nearly full asking price. The only change? Thoughtful staging that highlighted the home’s natural light, spacious layout, and potential for entertaining.
Why Staging Works
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First Impressions Count
Buyers often form opinions within the first few seconds of walking in the door. Staging helps ensure that first impression is a positive one. -
Highlights Key Features
A professional stager knows how to draw attention to the home's best attributes—whether it’s a cozy fireplace, open floor plan, or large windows. -
Creates Emotional Connection
A well-staged home tells a story. It makes the space feel livable and relatable, helping buyers form an emotional connection that could lead to a sale. -
Minimizes Distractions
Staging removes clutter and personal items that might distract buyers from seeing the home’s full potential.
Is Staging Always Necessary?
While not every home requires full staging, nearly every listing can benefit from some level of preparation—whether it’s simple decluttering, rearranging furniture, or adding a few neutral accents to brighten up the space.
For vacant homes, full staging can make a dramatic difference by transforming empty rooms into inviting spaces. For occupied homes, partial staging or virtual staging may be effective alternatives.
Final Thoughts
In a competitive market, home staging is not just a luxury—it’s a smart marketing tool. It helps your home shine, speaks directly to buyers’ emotions, and can result in faster offers and better returns.
Thinking about selling? Reach out to Embry Group Real Estate. We can help you determine if staging is the right move for your home and connect you with trusted local professionals to make it happen.