Let’s be honest: today’s home buyers are a tough crowd. They’re scrolling through endless listings online, and if your home doesn’t wow them in the first few seconds, they’re moving on. Buyers now expect homes to look like something out of a TV design show or a perfectly curated Instagram reel. In fact, a new report from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) says more than half of buyers are disappointed when a home doesn’t live up to what they see online or on TV.
That’s where home staging comes in—and it’s not just about fluffing pillows and lighting candles. Staging is a powerful marketing tool that can make your home stand out and sell faster, often for more money.
The Power of Staging: What the Numbers Say
According to NAR’s 2025 Profile of Home Staging, here’s what the data shows:
- 83% of buyer’s agents say staging makes it easier for buyers to envision a home as their own.
- 30% of agents report a 1%–10% increase in sale price when a home is staged.
- 49% of agents say staging helps a home sell faster—sometimes much faster.
- And get this: 73% of agents say TV design shows have created unrealistic buyer expectations. (Thanks a lot, HGTV!)
What to Focus On
Not every room needs to be staged, but the right spaces matter. Here’s where staging has the biggest impact:
- Living Room
- Primary Bedroom
- Kitchen
- Dining Room
- Outdoor Spaces
Guest bedrooms and kids’ rooms? Not as important. Save your time and money for the high-impact areas.
The Bottom Line
In 2025, if your home doesn’t shine in photos, it might not get a second glance. Staging—whether full, partial, or just a strategic refresh—helps meet buyer expectations and can lead to stronger offers and faster sales. It’s not just about looking pretty; it’s about creating an emotional connection that turns “just another house” into the one.
Ready to get your home market-ready? Let’s talk about a game plan that fits your home, your goals, and your budget. Let’s make sure your home stands out and sells for top dollar!