When you’re preparing to sell your home, there are a million things to think about—from pricing and timing to paperwork and moving logistics. But if there’s one thing that consistently helps homes sell faster and for more money, it’s this: staging.
Now, staging doesn’t mean turning your home into something it’s not. The goal isn’t to make it look like a museum—it’s to help buyers imagine themselves living there. The truth is, people don’t just buy houses—they buy a feeling. And great staging taps into that feeling immediately.
Here are some of the top staging secrets I share with my sellers to get their homes sold quickly and for top dollar:
- Start with a Deep Clean
This sounds obvious, but it’s more powerful than you think. A sparkling clean home gives the impression that it’s been well cared for—and buyers feel that when they walk through. Think baseboards, grout lines, windows, and light switches. It all matters. - Declutter… Then Declutter Again
Less really is more. You want each room to feel open and spacious. That means removing excess furniture, knick-knacks, and even about half of what’s in your closets. Storage space sells—but only when buyers can see it. - Depersonalize Without Making It Cold
Family photos, kids’ artwork, or your favorite mug collection? Lovely for living, not ideal for selling. Instead, go for a warm, neutral vibe with soft throw blankets, simple artwork, and fresh greenery. The idea is to appeal to as many potential buyers as possible. - Create a Strong First Impression
The entryway sets the tone. A fresh doormat, tidy front porch, maybe even a potted plant or two—these small touches go a long way. Inside, make sure the foyer feels welcoming and bright. It’s the first impression, and it sticks. - Define Each Space Clearly
That bonus room that’s half-office, half-gym, half-storage? It’s time to pick one. When rooms have a clear purpose, buyers can more easily imagine how they’d use the space. Even small nooks can be styled as a reading corner or mini workstation. - Let There Be Light
Open all the curtains. Turn on the lights. Consider switching out cool-toned bulbs for warmer ones. Bright spaces feel bigger, more open, and more inviting. Natural light is a buyer’s best friend. - Add a Touch of Life
A bowl of fresh lemons on the kitchen counter. A vase of flowers on the dining table. A small plant in the bathroom. These natural elements breathe life into your space and help buyers connect emotionally. - Don’t Forget the Nose
A home that smells fresh creates a lasting impression. Avoid strong air fresheners or anything overly scented. Think freshly baked cookies, a clean linen candle, or just the scent of a deep clean.
Final Thought
Staging doesn’t have to mean spending thousands of dollars or hiring a designer (though in some cases, that can pay off too!). Even small, strategic changes can completely shift the way buyers feel in your home.
When done right, staging helps your home stand out, creates that “wow” factor from the moment someone steps inside, and most importantly—it can help you sell faster and for more money.
Thinking about selling and not sure where to start? I’m happy to walk through your home and give you honest, tailored advice on what will make the biggest impact. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.
