Staging your home is like a secret weapon—it’s what makes buyers fall in love the second they walk through the door. But let’s face it, the thought of spending thousands of dollars on professional staging might make anyone think twice. The good news? You don’t have to break the bank!
In this post, I’m going to share seven budget-friendly staging tips that’ll help you showcase your home without draining your wallet. These simple tricks can actually help you sell your house faster and for more money. Sounds like a win-win, right?
Before we dive into the tips, here’s a quick fact to “set the stage”—pun intended. According to the National Association of Realtors, staged homes sell 3 to 30 times faster and can go for up to 20% more than homes that aren’t staged. That could mean tens of thousands of dollars added to your selling price, just by putting in a little effort.
So, what exactly is staging? It’s not just decorating; it’s about depersonalizing and neutralizing your home so it appeals to as many buyers as possible. You want to create a blank canvas where buyers can see themselves living. Now, let’s jump into these seven staging tips.
1. Depersonalize
First things first: depersonalize. Buyers need to picture themselves living in your home, not you. It’s hard for them to do that when your family photos, kids’ artwork, and quirky collectibles are on display.
Start by packing up personal items—family photos, fridge magnets, trophies, and even unique artwork. This also applies to the yard and garage. Bonus? You’re getting a head start on packing for your move!
Pro Tip: When you walk into a home, do you find it easier to imagine living there when it’s free of the owner’s personal stuff? Let me know in the comments.
2. Declutter
Next up: decluttering. It’s no one’s favorite activity, but it’s essential. The goal is to give each room a clear purpose. If your spare room is a combo of gym, office, and craft space, it’s time to narrow that down. Pick one purpose—like a home office—and pack away the rest.
Less clutter makes it easier for buyers to envision their belongings fitting into the space. Also, don’t forget to tidy up closets, cabinets, and drawers—buyers love to peek into storage spaces, so keep them neat.
3. Use White Towels and Bedding
A simple but effective trick is to use white towels and bedding in your bathrooms and bedrooms. White looks crisp, clean, and gives off a fresh vibe. The best part? You don’t need expensive linens—affordable options from stores like Walmart or Amazon will do the trick.
If white’s not your thing, go with neutral-colored bedding that matches the room’s palette. This makes rooms feel clean, fresh, and inviting.
4. Throw Pillows: The Secret Weapon
Throw pillows are a secret weapon for making any room look inviting. You can find affordable pillows just about anywhere, and if yours look a little tired, throw them in the wash or grab some slipcovers for an instant refresh.
If the room already has color, go with neutral pillows. If it’s mostly neutral, add a pop of color to draw the eye. A few well-placed pillows can give any room a cozy, upscale vibe.
Question for You: What’s your go-to color for throw pillows? I’d love to hear—drop it in the comments!
5. Oversize It
Here’s a staging secret that might surprise you: bigger is better when it comes to decor. Instead of filling shelves with small knick-knacks, pick one or two larger items that make a statement. Bigger pieces give a room a grand, finished feel and create a sense of spaciousness.
This applies to furniture too. Opt for fewer, larger pieces rather than a bunch of small items scattered throughout. It creates a more intentional and spacious look.
6. Mirrors and Artwork
Mirrors and artwork are your go-to tools for adding style and personality to a room. A large mirror can make a space feel brighter and bigger, while oversized artwork creates a dramatic focal point.
Here’s a quick tip: hang artwork so that the middle of the piece is about 60 inches from the floor. Hanging art too high is a common mistake, but keeping it at eye level helps the room feel more cohesive and inviting.
7. Add Greenery
Last but not least: greenery. Adding plants or flowers to every room breathes life into the space. If you’re not a plant person, faux plants work just as well. A small potted plant or a vase of flowers can completely change a room’s vibe, making it feel more welcoming and livable.
More Staging Secrets and Next Steps
These tips are just the start of getting your home market-ready. Staging doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and even small changes can make a big impact. If you’re thinking of selling and want more personalized advice, feel free to reach out and schedule a call with me. I’m here to help!
Happy staging!
