Successful home staging to bag you a buyer.

Home staging might not sound like the most fascinating topic at first glance, but get this:
A study by Coldwell Banker found that staging a home cut its time on the market in half and increased the final sale price by an average of 6%.

Well, those are some numbers worth paying attention to!

What Exactly Is Home Staging?

Home staging is all about preparing a home to make the best possible first impression on potential buyers. Think of it as “setting the stage.” It’s the process of sprucing up, decluttering, and adding thoughtful touches that highlight the property’s best features.

In other words, it’s a little bit of cleaning, a little bit of upgrading, and just enough “magic fairy dust” to help buyers fall in love at first sight.

First Things First: Clean, Clean, Clean

Before diving into décor, start with the basics:

• Give the home a deep clean—everything from floors to light fixtures.

• If appliances or hardware remain stained or outdated, consider replacing them.

• A fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference.

• Studies even show that updating cabinets is often worth the investment—you’ll likely earn that money back.

Don’t forget the small details: polish door handles, clean light switches, replace mismatched hangers with uniform ones, and clear out closets to make them feel spacious. Hide game consoles, stacks of books, and knickknacks. In kitchens and bathrooms, replace old or discolored caulking—it’s a surprisingly powerful update.

Current Staging Trends Buyers Love

1. Clean, Airy Aesthetic

Think light, casual, uncluttered, and full of possibilities. Modern buyers want spaces that feel open, breathable, and simple.

2. Spa Bathrooms

Comfort and a touch of luxury are in high demand. Buyers love spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs, rainfall showers, and soothing colors. When staging, use:

• Light paint tones

• Fresh towels neatly folded

• An essential oil diffuser

• A touch of greenery

3. Cozy Bedrooms

The vibe is “lazy Sunday morning, every day.” Platform beds, soft comforters, matching pillows, and earthy tones are in. Surprisingly, wasabi green has become a trending color for bedding.

4. Shared Family Spaces

Gone are the days of closed-off living areas. Buyers want open concept layouts with big sectionals, cozy seating, and spaces designed for togetherness. The hot look? “Informal farmhouse” style—comfortable, inviting, and versatile.

5. A Pop of Drama

Neutral walls and floors provide the perfect backdrop for one bold statement piece, like a colorful mid-century chair or striking piece of art. Not buying new furniture just for staging? Many professionals can loan stylish pieces for the selling period.

6. Outdoor Living

Backyards matter! Buyers want usable, low-maintenance outdoor spaces. Think clean gravel paths, simple shrubs, and native plants that are easy to care for (and can even withstand a few hungry deer if you’re in the right area).

The 3 Keys to Home Staging

When in doubt, staging comes down to three principles:

1. Declutter – Less is more.

2. Depersonalize – Create a space where buyers can imagine themselves living.

3. Decorate – Highlight the home’s strengths without overwhelming it.

At the end of the day, staging is about showing buyers what’s possible. The goal isn’t to make the house look like someone else’s dream—it’s to create a clean, beautiful canvas that lets them imagine their own.