The short answerPut your staging effort into the living room, kitchen and primary bedroom, in that order. Clear surfaces, add light, and use neutral bedding and a few plants. Those three rooms carry most of the listing photos and most of the first impression.
Staging is not decorating. The goal is to help a buyer picture their own life in the space, which means removing yours and adding a little warmth back in.
Room by room
| Room | Focus |
|---|---|
| Living room | Fewer pieces, a clear walking path, lamps on |
| Kitchen | Bare counters, one bowl of fruit, fresh towels |
| Primary bedroom | Crisp neutral bedding, cleared nightstands |
Questions About Your Own Move?
Ask an AgentFive low-cost moves
- Pack a third of everything on shelves and counters.
- Replace burned-out and mismatched bulbs.
- Add two or three large plants.
- Use plain white or cream bedding and towels.
- Open every blind for photos and showings.
3 rooms
carry most of the listing photos, so start there
Clear space reads as more space.
Questions Readers Ask
We offer a staging consultation with every listing and can arrange partial staging for vacant homes.
It is best to step out so buyers feel comfortable lingering and talking openly.
Through the final photos and the first few weeks of showings, or until the home is under contract.
