How to Stage Your Home for Sale
Are you getting ready to sell your home?
Preparing your home for sale involves ensuring it looks the part to make a strong first impression with potential buyers. But where should you start? How do you stage your home for sale while still living in it?
According to a 2025 report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 29% of real estate agents reported that staging their sellers' homes received a 1% to 10% increase in the dollar value offered. Considering the median cost of staging by the seller’s agent was $500 that year, this could mean a worthwhile investment compared to the ultimate value of your home. However, there are plenty of things you can do for free or for a low cost. From tidying up, to taking stock of what you already have, here are some tips to consider.
What are some easy things you can do?
Decluttering is the first and easiest part of the process. This also gives you the opportunity to trim down your belongings before packing up. Consider removing excess furniture that doesn’t serve a purpose or enhance your living space and donate or sell these items. Organize your clutter, especially in areas like a messy office or child’s playroom. Naturally, if you are still living in your space, toys will find their way around the home. However, make sure everything gets tucked away when your showing begins.
Another way to help potential buyers see the home as their future home is to remove personal items, family photos, etc. off the walls and tables. You want the future buyer to picture themselves in your home, not your family. It also helps keep your family safer.
Don’t forget to clear your kitchen of countertop appliances like toasters, blenders, spice racks, etc. Keep your kitchen counters clean and clutter free as much as possible. Keeping the coffee maker out is ok if you use it every day. It may even be useful for an early morning showing!
What is the best way to stage a house for sale?
The same NAR report stated that the most common rooms to get staged are the living room (91%), primary bedroom (83%) and dining room (69%). Our home staging tips do not include renting new furniture. Instead, take inventory of what you have. First, use what is on hand that is in good shape and in a neutral style, and then review what feels dated or worn. If you have any items that do not enhance the visual appeal of your home, consider relocating them to your garage or storage. Next, conduct a walkthrough of your home and evaluate the strategic arrangement of your furniture. A well-organized and purposefully furnished room enables potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.
Just as you should remove personal items, neutralizing your décor is a key home selling tip. Opt for neutral colors in couches, rugs and bedding to appeal to a wider audience. A touch of color is acceptable but maintaining bright and clean hues is ideal. How to stage your home for sale effectively involves creating spacious areas. Avoid overcrowding rooms, remove excess furniture and consider using smaller area rugs to make spaces feel larger.
Enhance your home’s appeal by adding greenery, which brings life and freshness to your space. Consider decorating your outdoor patio or terrace with plans and a patio set to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Tackle quick repairs and refreshes.
Don’t forget the basics of your home structure. Has the paint seen better years? Do the faucets look rusty? Now is a good time to give your home a quick facelift. After all, a layer or two of paint can do wonders. The same can be said for bold paint colors or wallpaper. While you may love your floral wallpaper, the average home buyer likely will not. Try a neutral and soothing paint color.
Want to learn more about getting ready to sell? From decoration tips like these, to closing specifics, we’ve got you covered: