Stage Your Home Bay Area: Investment or Expense?
On a recent Broker Tour through Palo Alto, I asked my managing broker a question many sellers wonder:
“In a market with low inventory and eager buyers, is staging really necessary?”
His response was quick and clear:
“You stage to get the best and highest price.”
Even for a tear-down, he added. Because while a buyer may plan to rebuild, they might need to live in the house—or rent it out—while waiting for permits, which can take one to two years. First impressions matter, and a home needs to feel livable, even temporarily.
That exchange sent me down a rabbit hole:
Is staging really worth it? What does the data say? And how should sellers think about the cost?
The Business Case for Staging
According to the National Association of Realtors (2024):
- Staged homes sell faster and for more money.
- A $2,000 investment in staging can return $16,000–$20,000 in added sale price.
- Staged homes spend up to 73% less time on market.
- They sell for 5–10% more than non-staged homes.
- 81% of buyer agents say staging helps buyers visualize themselves living in the home.
- And with 95% of buyers starting their search online, well-staged listing photos draw more attention and traffic.
Bottom line:
Staging isn’t about making things “look pretty.” It’s about making the home marketable. It’s a strategic business move to increase perceived value and help drive the sale.
What Does It Take to Stage?
I wish I could give you one answer, but this isn’t a one-size-fits-all and every seller situation will vary. After research and discussions with other agents, I captured the common themes below.
Decluttering & Neutralizing
Buyers need to see the space, not your stuff. Clear shelves, remove personal photos (this is for privacy also), reduce closet contents, and open up floor space. The more minimal and neutral the home feels, the easier it is for buyers to picture their own life there.
Fresh Paint
A fresh coat—especially in light, neutral tones—instantly makes a space feel clean and move-in ready. If you have bold accent walls or strong color statements, it’s smart to neutralize them.
Flooring
Replace worn or stained carpets. Refinish hardwoods if possible. Flooring sets the tone for the entire house—dirty or dated floors can instantly downgrade the buyer’s impression.
Furniture
Depending on the seller’s situation:
- Work with a professional stager to create a cohesive look and welcoming feel – this usually means the house is cleared out and the stager brings everything in. Ultimately, a seller rents the full look; furniture, linens, lamps, accessories, tables, side tables, etc
- Partial staging (main rooms only) is also effective.
- A mix of existing and staged/rented pieces can work too—if carefully styled.
The key is proportion, scale, and neutrality.
Accessories
Think statement vases, textured throws, layered lighting, and art that adds personality without overpowering the space. These touches help a home feel polished and welcoming.
Exterior & Landscaping
Curb appeal counts. Power wash walkways, touch up paint, repair cracked bricks or pavement, trim bushes, mow the lawn, and for a pop of color add fresh flowers where possible. First impressions are made in seconds, and as they say, they only happen once.
Roof & Systems
Especially in California, older roofs—like wood shake—can be deal breakers due to fire risk and insurability. If an inspection calls for roof replacement, consider:
- Pricing accordingly
- Replacing it before listing
- Offering a buyer credit or concession
Talk to your agent about which approach will yield the best net result.
Who Pays for Staging?
Like agent commissions, staging costs are negotiable. Typically, sellers cover the cost—but sometimes agents contribute to secure a listing or improve outcomes. In some cases, the cost is shared.
It’s important to view staging as part of your overall investment strategy—like professional photos, landscaping, or light renovations—aimed at maximizing your sale price.
So… To Stage or Not To Stage?
If your goal is to sell your home for the highest and best price, then yes, you should stage.
The extent of staging will depend on your budget, timeline, and motivation—but even small efforts can make a meaningful difference. And the right agent will guide you on where to spend (and where not to), based on your home’s condition, target buyers, and neighborhood comps.
Decluttering and prepping a home for market takes effort—but it pays off. And with the right strategy, staging transforms from a “nice-to-have” into a smart, ROI-driven move.
Smart Moves. Bold Moves. Real Estate Moves.
Ready to strategize your sale? Let’s make it a smart one—together.
Opinions and views are my own. The content in this post is for informational purposes only. Do not rely on this information for financial and/ or legal advice or to make any decisions about your financial and/or legal situation. Seek professional counsel for your specific needs.