Stage to Engage
Let’s be real: buyers shop with their eyes first—and their hearts follow close behind. In today’s high-stakes real estate game, a home isn’t just a structure; it’s a story, a dream, and a lifestyle wrapped into one. And staging? Well, it’s the storytelling magic that turns a “house” into a “home.”
If you’ve ever wondered whether home staging is worth the time, effort, or investment—spoiler alert—it absolutely is. Here’s why, backed by cold hard stats and warm-hearted reality.
Buyers See More Than Just Furniture—They See Their Future
According to recent data, 83% of buyers’ agents said staging a home made it easier for buyers to visualize the property as a future home. That’s not just nice to have—it’s powerful psychology at play.
And here’s the kicker:
60% of buyers’ agents reported that staging influenced buyer perception most of the time
Another 26% said it influenced buyers often but not always
That’s nearly 9 out of 10 agents acknowledging the undeniable pull of a well-staged space. Translation? When buyers walk into a staged home, they’re far more likely to mentally move in.
What to Stage: The Buyer Hotspots
Not all rooms are created equal. When it comes to staging, some areas pack more punch:
Living Room – 37% say it’s the most important to stage
Primary Bedroom – 34%
Kitchen – 23%
These are the emotional anchors of a home. If you’re limited on time or budget, prioritize where it counts.
Staging Doesn’t Just Sell—It Sells for More.
Here’s the sweet spot:
17% of buyers’ agents reported that staging bumped up the dollar value offered by 1–5% compared to similar non-staged homes. On a $500,000 home, that could mean an extra $25,000 in your pocket. Cha-ching!
And sellers’ agents back it up:
19% said they also observed a similar 1–5% price increase when homes were staged.
It’s not just about in-person curb appeal anymore. In the age of scrolling and swiping, your listing has seconds to make a first impression.
Photos, Videos, & Virtual Tours—Oh My!
Here’s what agents say buyers want:
73% of buyers’ agents said photos are key
57% said traditional staging matters
48% emphasized videos
43% prefer virtual tours
Sellers’ agents agreed: 88% ranked listing photos as highly important. Moral of the story? Staging helps your home look like a star in person and online.
Blame HGTV: Buyer Expectations Are Sky-High
Let’s not forget the influence of TV.
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58% of buyers are disappointed when homes don’t look like what they’ve seen on shows
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73% of agents say these shows create unrealistic expectations
So if buyers are expecting a magazine-worthy home tour, staging helps meet (and even exceed) those glossy expectations.
Buyers Are Picky—And Preloaded with Opinions
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79% of buyers come into the process with specific ideas of where and what they want
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They expect to tour a median of 8 homes in person and 20 virtually
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And yes, 23% bring family members to view homes—even if they’re not buying
Which means: you’re not just staging for the buyer, you’re staging for their mom, sister, cousin, or best friend with a strong opinion.
Information Source: nar.realtor
Is Staging Worth the Cost?
You bet. The median cost when hiring a pro stager is about $1,500, compared to $500 when the agent stages it themselves. But considering the potential return and reduced time on market, it’s a savvy investment.
Speaking of time, 30% of sellers’ agents said staged homes saw slight decreases in time on market. And in real estate, time is more than money—it’s momentum.
Unbox Your Home’s Potential
Staging isn’t about hiding flaws—it’s about highlighting possibilities. It gives buyers a curated preview of the life they could live within those four walls. And that emotional connection? It sells.
So whether you’re prepping a condo in Summerlin, a classic ranch in Henderson, or a luxury escape in Lake Las Vegas—stage it like you mean it. Because your home deserves a spotlight, and your buyers deserve a vision they can’t resist.
Ready to prep your home for its spotlight moment?
Contact the Lauren Paris Group today & let’s make your listing unforgettable!
