When you’re selling your home, you want to do everything possible to make it appealing to potential buyers. But is staging a home worth the time, effort, and cost? With the rise of home staging services, many sellers find themselves asking this exact question. Does staging really help homes sell faster, or is it just an added expense?
In this blog, we’ll explore whether staging your home is worth it, looking at the costs and benefits of staging and why it may just be the secret to a quick sale at a higher price.
What Is Home Staging?
Home staging is the art of preparing a home for sale by enhancing its visual appeal. The goal is to make the home more attractive to potential buyers by showcasing its strengths and minimizing any flaws. This is done by rearranging furniture, adding décor, and creating a welcoming environment that allows buyers to envision themselves living there.
Benefits of Home Staging
So, why should you consider staging your home? Here are some key benefits that make home staging worth it:
- Homes Sell Faster
Staged homes tend to sell much faster than non-staged homes. According to a report from the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA), homes that were professionally staged spent 73% less time on the market compared to non-staged properties. Staging helps buyers see the home’s full potential, which can lead to quicker offers. - Higher Sale Price
Staging a home can also help increase its value in the eyes of buyers. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) states that 29% of sellers’ agents reported an increase of 1% to 5% in the offer price of a staged home compared to similar non-staged homes. By highlighting your home’s best features, staging creates a stronger emotional connection with buyers, which can drive up offers. - Enhanced Online Appeal
With the majority of buyers starting their home search online, high-quality photos are critical. A staged home photographs better, making it stand out in online listings. Buyers are more likely to schedule a showing for a home that looks polished and well-maintained in photos. - Helping Buyers Visualize
One of the primary reasons staging works so well is because it helps buyers visualize themselves living in the home. By creating a neutral, welcoming environment, staging allows buyers to focus on the home’s possibilities rather than the seller’s personal style.
The Costs of Staging
While the benefits are clear, what about the costs of staging? The cost of staging can vary depending on several factors:
- DIY Staging
Some sellers opt to stage their homes themselves. DIY staging can involve decluttering, rearranging existing furniture, and adding small décor items. While this can be cost-effective, it’s important to remember that a professional stager brings expertise and an objective eye that can make a big difference. - Professional Staging
Hiring a professional stager can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the size of the home and the scope of the staging. While this may seem like a significant investment, the potential return in terms of a faster sale and higher sale price often makes it worthwhile.
Is Staging Worth It?
Considering the benefits of staging, it’s clear that staging is usually worth the investment. Homes that are staged tend to sell faster and for more money, making it a smart move for many sellers.
If you’re thinking about staging your home, consider the potential return on investment. Not only can staging help you sell your home faster, but it can also increase the final sale price, helping you get the most out of your property.
At Heather’s Houses, we specialize in creating beautiful, staged homes that attract buyers. Our team is here to help you make the most of your home’s potential, ensuring it stands out in a competitive market. Contact Heather’s Houses today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help stage your home for success.