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Staging Tips That Help Homes Sell Faster (and for More Money)

Staging a home is one of the most impactful steps you can take when putting your property on the market. The goal isn’t just making a space look pretty; it’s about helping buyers imagine themselves living there, creating an emotional connection, and ultimately making a strong offer. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that professionally staged homes can sell 73% faster and for roughly 1–5% more than their un-staged counterparts.


Here’s a comprehensive guide to making your home stand out:


1️⃣ Declutter, Depersonalize, and Minimize

Why It Matters: Too much “stuff” can overwhelm buyers and obscure the home’s best features.


✅ Action Plan:

  • Remove family photographs, memorabilia, and overly bold décor.

  • Clear countertops, desks, and surfaces.

  • Edit down closets and storage spaces (buyers will peek inside!).


2️⃣ Focus on Curb Appeal

Why It Matters: The exterior is your home’s first impression, and many buyers decide within seconds.


✅ Action Plan:

  • Power wash siding, walkways, and driveway.

  • Maintain landscaping by trimming bushes and adding fresh mulch.

  • Add potted flowers, a new doormat, or a freshly painted door for a welcoming entry.


3️⃣ Highlight the Home’s Best Features

Why It Matters: Make sure buyers notice the details that justify your listing price.✅ Action Plan:

  • Position furniture to draw attention to focal points (fireplaces, built‑in bookshelves, bay windows, etc.).

  • Use neutral or light-colored area rugs and décor to make spaces feel open.

  • Ensure natural lighting shines through by removing heavy drapery.


4️⃣ Use Neutral Colors for a Bigger Appeal

Why It Matters: Neutral palettes appeal to a broader range of buyers and make spaces feel larger.


✅ Action Plan:

  • Paint bold or dated walls in neutral shades like warm whites, soft grays, or creamy beiges.

  • Swap out colorful or mismatched bedding for crisp, neutral alternatives.

  • Add pops of color through removable décor (pillows, flowers, throws).


5️⃣ Stage Kitchens and Bathrooms to Impress

Why It Matters: These spaces can make or break a sale.

✅ Action Plan:

  • Clear clutter from countertops and remove personal items.

  • Replace old hardware (cabinet pulls, faucets) with updated styles.

  • Make spaces feel fresh by adding new hand towels, a neutral shower curtain, or a potted plant.


6️⃣ Optimize Furniture and Layout

Why It Matters: The right layout allows buyers to envision how the space will work for them.


✅ Action Plan:

  • Avoid blocking windows or walkways with bulky pieces.

  • Group seating into conversation areas.

  • Remove or relocate excess or oversized pieces.


7️⃣ Eliminate Odors and Maintain a Fresh Atmosphere

Why It Matters: The smell of a space can be an instant turn‑off for buyers.


✅ Action Plan:

  • Deep‑clean carpets, rugs, and upholstery.

  • Use neutral air fresheners or a natural fragrance like citrus or lavender.

  • Avoid strong cooking odors before showings.


8️⃣ Stage to Sell a Lifestyle — Not Just a Property

Why It Matters: Today’s buyers want a home that suits their aspirations.


✅ Action Plan:

  • In a home office space, set up a clean desk scene.

  • In a patio area, create an inviting space for entertaining.

  • In bedrooms, use crisp, hotel‑like bedding and soft lighting to create a restful atmosphere.


9️⃣ Invest in Professional Photography and Virtual Tours

Why It Matters: Most buyers first experience your home online — making photography critical.


✅ Action Plan:

  • Hire a professional photographer specializing in real estate.

  • Invest in a 3D or video tour for online listings.

  • Ensure spaces are well‑lit and styled before shooting.


🔥 Why Staging Matters in Today’s Market

In a competitive market where buyers have countless options online, making your listing stand out is vital.


Staging transforms spaces — making them brighter, roomier, and more inviting — and taps into buyers’ emotions, allowing them to envision themselves living there. According to NAR statistics:

  • 83% of buyers’ agents say staging makes it easier for buyers to picture themselves in the space.

  • 25% of buyers’ agents say staging increased the dollar value offered between 1–5%; some report increases as high as 10%.


✅ Final Thought

Staging doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. Even focusing on cleaning, decluttering, neutral paint, and thoughtful décor can make a significant difference.


By highlighting your home’s best features, creating a neutral canvas, and making spaces feel welcoming, you’re making it as easy as possible for buyers to say, “This is the one.”


Your NorCal Realtor

M&M Real Estate

BRE Lic# 01938720

Cell: Call/Text 707-330-2324


About Scott Sweeney


SweeneySells

Full Time Realtor 13 Years +

Over 100 Families Served

Top 5% Producing Agent

Buying & Listing Specialist

Contract & Negotiation Ninja

CSUS Business & Marketing Graduate 2006


With quickly serving over a 100 families, Scott Sweeney has become a top 5% producing Realtor in the greater Sacramento area who has helped clients from the Bay Area to South Lake Tahoe. Scott has a Bachelor Of Science in Business Administration, with a concentration in Marketing from CSUS. His education, and extensive background in the hospitality, marketing, and real estate industries, have helped Scott to become one of the leading, and most sought after agents in the area.


Reach out to SweeneySells today, and take the first step towards your real estate goals!

📞707-330-2324




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