Lisa Romerein

Preparing tosell your homeincludes embarking on a laundry list of tasks with conflicting advice from all sides.

So, do you gotta stage your home?

Or is a quick clean and decluttering just as effective?

living room with modern fireplace surround flanked by bookshelves, original leaded-glass windows, white sofa, rug, and round coffee table

Credit:Lisa Romerein

Still, the biggest factor in your decision will likely come down to cost.

How much are you willing to spend, and is it worth that return on investment?

What Is Home Staging?

Neutral living room

Credit:Ali Harper

Like most services related to selling your home, home staging encompasses a wide range of costs and services.

Some sellers will opt to pay for home staging, while others will stage their own homes.

Next level of staging includes bringing limited items to complement existing decor.

Finally, the most extensive staging is done in a vacant house.

Another major step in staging a home isdecluttering.

They want a blank slate where they can create their own new memories.

There is something to be said about the trend to present everything perfectly, Frank says.

Home staging helps sellers achieve Insta-worthy abodes that get seen and shared.

Ali Harper

How Much Does Home Staging Cost?

The cost of home staging varies based on the level of service you choose.

The size of your home will dictatehow much furniture is neededfor staging, which will also affect price.

Certain other factors that affect cost include any cosmetic upgrades or renovations that might be needed.

In addition to the scope of services, where you live can affect how much your home staging costs.

Key staging expenses include consultations and furniture rental, Frank says.

Its good practice to ask about all fees and to obtain an estimate, Frank adds.

Time of year can also play a role in the overall cost.

Can’t I Just Do It Myself?

Yes, you could stage your own home.

Home staging doesnt have to be hired out, Frank says.

Sellers can rely on the experienced eye of their agent or ask for staging resources.

Additionally, the internet provides an abundance of tips for the DIY-bang out.

Becker adds that the quality of the furniture and artwork youre using can really matter to potential buyers.

Additionally, faded or worn window treatments and carpets will only send negative messages.

One of the biggest benefits of hiring someone to stage is their objective approach, Frank says.

It can be hard for a homeowner to set aside personal preferences.

Third party stagers are strategic about the style and placement of furniture and decor.

Keep in mind many professionals willuse your own furniture and rearrange itto save money while adding a professional touch.

The company delivered it the next day and she embellished the space with her own decor.

Is Professional Home Staging Worth it?

Statistically speaking, staging brings better offers, Frank says.

According to the National Association of Realtors, staged homes result in offers 1% to 5% higher.

On a $350,000 home, thats an extra $3,500 to $17,500.

Frank also encourages sellers to considerthe current housing marketwhen looking to pay a professional stager.

Lack of inventory and stable prices mean homes are selling in relatively short order.

However, staged homes show better and typically lead to higher priced offers, she says.

If cost and time support staging, sellers who do it can come out ahead.