Home Staging: Does It Really Help Sell Your House Faster?
Selling a home quickly and for the best price possible is a top priority for most homeowners. One of the most commonly recommended strategies is home staging, the process of preparing and decorating a house to appeal to the largest number of potential buyers. But does staging actually make a difference? Should you invest time and money into it, or is selling an empty home just as effective? This comprehensive guide will answer all your frequently asked questions about home staging, offer actionable tips, and discuss costs and drawbacks.
Do Houses Sell Faster if They Are Staged?
Yes, numerous studies and real estate industry reports indicate that staged homes tend to sell faster than non-staged or empty homes. According to the National Association of Realtors, staged homes sell 3 to 30 times faster than non-staged homes on average. Staging helps buyers visualize themselves living in the space, creates a strong first impression, and can make rooms look bigger and more inviting.
Does Staging Really Help Sell a House?
Staging helps in multiple ways:
- Makes the home look move-in ready, appealing to buyers seeking convenience.
- Highlights the property’s best features and downplays minor flaws.
- Creates a neutral setting that allows buyers to imagine their own furniture and style in the home.
- Photographs of staged homes are more attractive online, drawing more traffic to open houses and showings.
As a result, staged homes not only sell faster but may also sell for a higher price compared to their non-staged counterparts.
Is It Better to Stage a House or Sell It Empty?
Generally, it’s better to stage your house than to leave it empty. Empty homes can appear cold, smaller, and less inviting. Many buyers have trouble visualizing how their belongings will fit in an unoccupied space. Staged homes help buyers understand room dimensions and functionality, making it easier for them to fall in love with the property.
However, staging is not always necessary for every situation. If the market is extremely hot and properties are selling immediately, staging may have a lesser impact. In most cases, though, even basic staging (like cleaning, decluttering, and adding a few accessories) can make a significant difference.
How Do You Stage a House for Quick Sale?
Staging doesn’t always require a professional. Here are some key steps you can take to stage your home for a speedy sale:
- Declutter: Remove excess items from countertops, shelves, and rooms to make spaces look larger and tidier.
- Clean Thoroughly: Deep clean every room, including floors, windows, and fixtures. A spotless home feels well-cared-for.
- Depersonalize: Take down family photos, fridge magnets, and personalized décor to help buyers imagine their life in the space.
- Repair and Touch Up: Fix minor repairs—leaking faucets, scuffed walls, squeaky doors, etc.
- Neutral Colors: Opt for neutral tones for walls and larger furniture to appeal to a broad audience.
- Rearrange Furniture: Create clear walkways and eliminate unnecessary furniture to maximize flow and the feeling of spaciousness.
- Add Finishing Touches: Place fresh flowers, stylish throw pillows, or a bowl of fruit for an inviting feel.
Who Pays for Staging a House for Sale?
Typically, the seller pays for staging. Some real estate agents may cover the cost as part of their marketing strategy, or offer basic staging advice for free, but comprehensive staging with rented furniture and décor is usually the seller’s responsibility. Costs can range from a few hundred dollars for DIY staging to several thousand for professionally staged homes with rented furniture.
Home Staging: What to Avoid
When staging a home, sellers should not:
- Leave personal items or sensitive documents visible.
- Overdo it with bold colors, eccentric art, or unique themes that might not appeal to the average buyer.
- Neglect repairs or ignore odors—staging cannot hide serious flaws or bad smells.
- Use too much furniture, making rooms feel cramped.
- Stage only some rooms—try to make the entire home appealing, especially key spaces like the living room, master bedroom, and kitchen.
Do Empty Homes Sell Faster?
Empty homes generally do not sell faster than staged ones. They can look uninviting and may magnify flaws. Unoccupied homes may also indicate that the seller is in a hurry to move, potentially weakening their negotiating position.
What Is the Disadvantage of Home Staging?
- Cost: Professional staging services can be expensive, especially for larger or luxury homes.
- Effort and Inconvenience: Staging can require moving out, storing your possessions, or dealing with frequent cleaning before showings.
- No Guaranteed ROI: While most staged homes sell faster and often at a higher price, there’s no absolute guarantee of a significant return on your investment.
Should You Set the Table When Staging a Home?
Yes, setting the dining table can help buyers imagine hosting friends and family in the space. Use simple, elegant place settings without cluttering the table. This small detail can add warmth and highlight the entertaining potential of the home.
Should You Hang Pictures When Staging a House?
Yes, but choose neutral and tasteful artwork. Avoid personal photographs or highly specific themes. Art should enhance the room by adding color or a focal point, but not be distracting.
Why Is Home Staging So Expensive?
Professional home staging can be costly due to several factors:
- Rental fees for high-quality furniture and décor.
- Design expertise for maximizing space and appeal.
- Labor for moving, setting up, and eventually removing staged items.
- If the home is large or vacant, the costs rise due to the quantity of rented items needed.
However, many sellers find the investment worthwhile since staging often leads to quicker sales and better offers, sometimes more than covering the upfront cost.
Conclusion
To sum up, home staging is a proven technique to help sell homes faster and often for a better price. Sellers should consider their market, budget, and timeline to decide the level of staging needed. Whether you go DIY or hire a pro, the key is to create an inviting, move-in-ready atmosphere that allows buyers to imagine their future in your home.
If you are look to sell your house fast in New Jersey please reach out to us today!