If you're on the fence about whether staging your home is worth the effort, the latest data from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) should help you decide. Their 2025 Profile of Home Staging confirms what many real estate pros have long suspected: staging not only helps homes sell faster—it can also increase the sale price.
📈 Staging Adds Value
According to the report, 29% of real estate agents said that staging led to a 1% to 10% increase in the dollar value offered by buyers. Specifically, 19% of sellers' agents reported a 1% to 5% increase, while 10% saw a 6% to 10% bump .
For a $400,000 home, even a 1% increase translates to $4,000—more than covering the typical $1,500 cost of professional staging .
⏱️ Faster Sales, Less Stress
Staging also helps homes sell more quickly. Nearly half (49%) of sellers' agents observed that home staging reduced the time homes spent on the market. Specifically, 30% saw slight decreases, and 19% reported significant reductions in selling time .
🛋️ What Buyers Care About Most
When it comes to staging, some rooms matter more than others. The living room topped the list, with 91% of sellers' agents staging it, followed by the primary bedroom (83%) and the dining room (69%). Buyers' agents echoed this, noting that the living room (37%), primary bedroom (34%), and kitchen (23%) were most important to buyers .
💡 Staging Tips That Make a Difference
If you're considering staging, focus on:
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Decluttering and depersonalizing: Remove personal items to help buyers envision themselves in the space.
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Neutral color palettes: Use light, neutral tones to appeal to a broader audience.
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Maximizing natural light: Open curtains and clean windows to let in more light.
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Highlighting key features: Arrange furniture to showcase the home's best attributes.
Professional stagers can also assist with furniture placement and decor to enhance the home's appeal.
💰 Is Staging Worth It?
Given the potential for a higher sale price and a quicker sale, staging can be a worthwhile investment. The cost of staging varies, but the return on investment often justifies the expense, especially in competitive markets.
🏡 Final Thoughts
In today's market, where buyers often begin their search online, first impressions are crucial. Staging can make your home stand out in listings and during showings, potentially leading to a faster sale at a better price.
If you're preparing to sell and want to make the most of your listing, consider staging as a strategic move to enhance your home's appeal.