Home Staging FAQ: What You Need to Know

Selling a home in Utah? You’ve probably heard about home staging, but is it really worth the hype? The answer is a resounding yes! Think of staging as setting the scene for buyers—helping them fall in love with your home at first sight.

From boosting curb appeal to making spaces feel open and inviting, staging can help your home sell faster and for more money. But if you're wondering how to do it, what it costs, and whether you should DIY or call in the pros, you're in the right place. Let's break it all down so you can decide what’s best for you!

What is Home Staging and Why Does It Matter?

Home staging is the process of preparing your home for potential buyers by making it look as appealing as possible. Think of it like dressing up for a big date—you want to impress! A well-staged home highlights the best features of your property and helps buyers visualize themselves living there.

Why it matters:

• Faster Sales: According to real estate data, staged homes sell 73% faster than non-staged homes.
• Higher Offers: Buyers are willing to pay more for a home that feels “move-in ready.”
• Better First Impressions: Your listing photos will stand out online, drawing more potential buyers to your home.

What Are My Staging Options?

Now that you understand the benefits of staging, let’s explore your options. The most common approach is relying on your real estate agent for expert advice. Agents know what buyers are looking for because they’re constantly in showings, gathering firsthand feedback. Their insights can be crucial in getting your home market-ready.

Basic Staging with an Agent: This typically involves:

1. Decluttering and depersonalizing by removing personal items and family photos.
2. Rearranging furniture to create a more spacious and inviting flow.
3. Adding plants, repositioning artwork, and tweaking decor for maximum impact.

Full-Service Staging: If your home needs a more hands-on transformation, hiring a professional stager or staging company may be the best route. This option often includes renting furniture and accessories to enhance the home’s appeal, making it a more significant investment but potentially offering greater returns.

How Do I Know Which Option to Choose?

Not sure which staging route to take? You don’t have to figure it out alone—your real estate agent can help determine what level of staging will make the most impact on your home’s marketability. Here are some factors they’ll consider:

• Market Conditions: If the market is slow, full-service staging can help make your home stand out to hesitant buyers. In a hot market where homes sell quickly, minimal staging may suffice.
• Your Home’s Condition: If your home is vacant or has an unconventional layout, professional staging can help buyers visualize its full potential.
• Your Budget: Staging costs vary, so discussing options with your agent can help you decide if professional staging is worth the investment or if DIY staging will do the trick.

Do I Need to Stage Every Room?

Not necessarily! While a fully staged home is ideal, some rooms carry more weight than others. Focus on these key areas:

• Living Room: This is where buyers imagine entertaining and relaxing. Keep it cozy and inviting!
• Kitchen: Clear countertops, fresh flowers, and a bowl of fruit can work wonders.
• Primary Bedroom: Create a serene retreat with soft bedding, neutral colors, and minimal decor.
• Entryway: First impressions matter—make it warm and welcoming!

Rooms like guest bedrooms, laundry rooms, and basements can be staged minimally or left as is.

Should I Hire a Professional Stager?

It depends on your budget and how much time you have. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Professional Stager: Costs vary but typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the home’s size and the level of staging required. Pros bring in furniture, decor, and expertise to maximize your home’s appeal.
• DIY Staging: If hiring a pro isn’t in your budget, you can absolutely do it yourself! Declutter, deep clean, and strategically arrange furniture to make your home look bigger and brighter.

Tip: Even if you’re DIY-ing, a consultation with a stager (usually around $200) can provide valuable advice on where to focus your efforts.

How Much Does Staging Cost? Is It Worth It?

While home staging isn’t free, it almost always pays for itself in the form of a quicker sale and potentially a higher price. According to the National Association of Realtors, staged homes sell for an average of 5-10% more than unstaged homes. That means if your home is worth $500,000, you could gain an extra $25,000 to $50,000—making a $2,000 staging investment seem like a bargain!

What Are the Biggest Staging Mistakes to Avoid?

1. Too Much Furniture: Less is more! Overcrowded rooms look smaller and feel overwhelming.
2. Personal Items Everywhere: Buyers should picture themselves in the home, not you! Put away family photos and personal memorabilia.
3. Ignoring Lighting: Bright, airy spaces feel bigger. Open curtains, turn on all the lights, and add mirrors to reflect natural light.
4. Over-the-Top Decor: Stick to neutral, modern styles that appeal to the widest audience.
5. Skipping Curb Appeal: First impressions happen before buyers walk through the door. Mow the lawn, plant flowers, and make sure your front porch is clean and inviting.

Can I Stage My Home If I’m Still Living in It?

Absolutely! Living in a staged home does take some extra effort, but it’s doable. Here are some tips:

• Use storage bins to quickly tuck away personal items before showings.
• Keep closets neat—buyers will peek inside.
• Make beds and wipe down surfaces daily to maintain a fresh, polished look.
• Limit cooking strong-smelling foods (sorry, bacon lovers—save it for after the open house!).

Conclusion: Is Staging Right for You?

If you want to sell faster, attract more buyers, and potentially get higher offers, then staging is a smart move! Whether you go all-out with a pro or do a light DIY version, the goal is the same: make buyers fall in love with your home.

Thinking of Selling in Utah? Let’s Talk!

At Red Sign Real Estate, we know what it takes to get top dollar for your home. If you’re ready to sell, we’d love to help you through every step of the process—including expert advice on staging! Contact us today or visit our website to explore listings and learn more.