When it comes to selling a home, first impressions matter—a lot. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), staged homes sell faster and often for more money than unstaged ones. That’s because staging helps potential buyers visualize themselves living in the space. While professional staging can be costly, there are plenty of budget-friendly hacks that can make a big impact.
If you’re looking to get your home market-ready without spending a fortune, here are some top home staging hacks that can help your home sell faster and at a better price.
1. Declutter Like You Mean It
One of the easiest and most effective staging tricks is decluttering. Buyers don’t want to see your personal items—they want to picture their own.
Hacks to declutter effectively:
- The Rule of Three: Limit decorations and items on surfaces (like coffee tables and countertops) to three items or less.
- Storage Bins Are Your Best Friend: If you don’t have time to sort through everything, use stylish baskets or bins to quickly stash away clutter.
- Think Like a Minimalist: Less is more—remove excess furniture to make rooms appear larger.
Pro Tip: Buyers will open closets, so don’t just stuff everything in them. Instead, use vacuum-seal bags to make seasonal clothes and linens take up less space.
Mirror Over Fireplace for More Light Dispersement
2. Use Light and Mirrors to Make Spaces Look Bigger
A well-lit home feels more welcoming and spacious. Dark, shadowy spaces can make rooms feel smaller and less inviting.
Lighting hacks:
- Maximize Natural Light: Open all blinds and curtains during showings. Use sheer curtains if privacy is needed.
- Layer Your Lighting: Use a mix of overhead, table, and floor lamps to brighten up darker spaces.
- Add Mirrors Strategically: Placing mirrors opposite windows reflects light and creates the illusion of a larger space.
Pro Tip: A large floor mirror in a small bedroom or hallway can make a dramatic difference in how spacious the area feels.
3. Neutralize and Depersonalize the Space
Buyers want to picture themselves living in your home, which is difficult when your personal style dominates the space.
Hacks to neutralize your home:
- Repaint Bold Walls: If your walls are bright or dark, repaint them in soft neutrals like beige, gray, or warm white.
- Swap Out Personal Photos: Replace family pictures with neutral artwork or decorative mirrors.
- Remove Quirky or Personal Decor: Store away collectibles, souvenirs, and highly personalized decorations.
Pro Tip: If you can’t repaint everything, use large neutral-colored artwork to cover bold walls and tone down the space.
Reading Nook in Small Space
4. Give Every Room a Purpose
Buyers should walk into a space and immediately know its function. If you have a room that serves multiple purposes (like a guest room/home office combo), make it clear which purpose you want to highlight.
Hacks for defining spaces:
- Stage an Extra Room as a Home Office: With more people working from home, buyers love dedicated office spaces. Add a simple desk, a lamp, and a chair to create an instant office.
- Convert Dead Spaces: An empty nook can become a cozy reading area with just a chair and a small side table.
- Make the Dining Room Stand Out: Even if you don’t use it often, set the table with neutral place settings to show buyers how the space can be used.
Pro Tip: If your home has an awkward space, use a simple staging setup to show its potential rather than leaving it empty.
New Kitchen Light Fixtures
5. Use Affordable Updates for a Fresh Look
Updating a home doesn’t have to cost thousands. A few simple changes can make a big impact on how buyers perceive your home.
Budget-friendly update hacks:
- Swap Out Hardware: Replacing old cabinet knobs and drawer pulls in kitchens and bathrooms gives a fresh, modern look.
- Upgrade Light Fixtures: Swapping outdated fixtures for modern ones can elevate the feel of a room.
- Re-Caulk Bathrooms: Fresh caulking around sinks, bathtubs, and showers makes the space look clean and well-maintained.
Pro Tip: Stick to classic finishes like brushed nickel or matte black for hardware and fixtures—they appeal to most buyers.
Succulent on Shelf
6. Add a Touch of Greenery
Plants bring life and freshness to a space, making it feel more inviting.
Hacks to add greenery without the hassle:
- Use Low-Maintenance Plants: Succulents, snake plants, and pothos are easy to care for and look great.
- Place Small Plants in Bathrooms: A small fern or aloe vera plant can brighten up a bathroom shelf.
- Use Fresh Flowers Strategically: A vase of fresh flowers in the kitchen or entryway adds an elegant touch.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a green thumb, high-quality faux plants can achieve the same effect without the maintenance.
Updated Front Door
7. Boost Curb Appeal for a Great First Impression
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see, so make sure it’s inviting.
Easy curb appeal hacks:
- Repaint the Front Door: A fresh coat of paint in a welcoming color like navy blue, red, or classic black adds instant charm.
- Add Potted Plants: Placing potted flowers or greenery by the front door makes the entrance feel warm and welcoming.
- Replace or Clean the Welcome Mat: A fresh, clean doormat sets the tone for the home.
Pro Tip: If your mailbox is outdated or damaged, replacing it with a modern one is a simple way to elevate curb appeal.
8. Appeal to the Senses
Staging isn’t just about how a home looks—it’s about how it feels. Engaging a buyer’s senses can leave a lasting impression.
Hacks to make your home feel inviting:
- Use Subtle Scents: A light vanilla, citrus, or fresh linen scent creates a welcoming ambiance (but avoid strong perfumes or artificial sprays).
- Play Soft Background Music: Light instrumental music at a low volume can create a calming atmosphere.
- Make Sure the Home Feels Comfortable: Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature during showings.
Pro Tip: Avoid overpowering scents—strong candles or air fresheners can make buyers wonder if you’re covering up an odor.
9. Highlight Key Selling Points
Every home has standout features—make sure buyers notice them!
Hacks to draw attention to features:
- Use Accent Lighting: If you have a gorgeous fireplace or built-in shelving, add lighting to highlight it.
- Arrange Furniture to Emphasize Space: Position sofas and chairs to showcase open layouts and flow.
- Use Decorative Items to Guide the Eye: Place a statement vase or art piece near a unique feature to subtly direct attention.
Pro Tip: If you have a fantastic view, make sure curtains or blinds don’t block it.
Golf Course View
Final Thoughts
Home staging doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. With these simple hacks, you can make your home more appealing to buyers without a major investment. From decluttering and neutralizing to adding subtle updates and curb appeal, small changes can lead to faster sales and higher offers.
Thinking of selling your home? Whether you need advice on staging or are ready to list, our team is here to help. Contact us today for expert guidance on getting the most out of your home sale!
Home Staging Hacks That Help Homes Sell Faster
