Now that buyers have more options for their move, you need to be a bit more intentional about making sure your house looks its best when you sell. And proper staging can be a great way to do just that.
What Is Home Staging?
Home staging isn't about making your space look like a designer showroom or the cover of a magazine. Instead, it’s about creating a warm, inviting, and move-in ready atmosphere that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.
Staging can range from simple enhancements—like decluttering and rearranging furniture—to more elaborate design touches, depending on your goals and budget. Even small investments in time and effort can go a long way in boosting your home's appeal, especially in today’s competitive market.
According to research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes that are staged not only sell faster but also tend to sell for a higher price compared to those that aren’t staged at all.
Which Rooms Matter Most?
The good news is, you likely don’t need to stage your entire home to make a strong impression. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), these are the rooms where staging has the greatest impact, based on feedback from buyers’ agents (see graph below):
How a Real Estate Agent Helps You Prioritize Staging
Local agents have first-hand knowledge of what buyers in your area are looking for. They gather feedback constantly—through showings, open houses, and conversations with other professionals—and use that information to guide your staging efforts.
Here’s how they can help you get the most out of your home’s presentation:
In many cases, an agent’s advice is all you need to get your home showing-ready. But if your house is vacant or needs a bigger visual transformation, your agent may recommend hiring a professional stager. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR):
“The median dollar value spent when using a staging service was $1,500, compared to $500 when the sellers’ agent personally staged the home.”
- John Smith
A seasoned agent will help you weigh that cost against your goals, timeline, and the condition of your home. They’ll also consider what buyers expect at your price point and how long similar homes are taking to sell in your area.
Bottom Line
Staging doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive—it just needs to make buyers feel welcome and help them imagine your house as their future home. With the guidance of a knowledgeable agent, you can focus your efforts where they matter most to attract buyers and get top dollar.