Home Staging Tips to Attract More Buyers

As a real estate agent in Austin, I’ve worked with sellers who ask the same question: “Is home staging really worth it?” My answer? Absolutely! Staging isn’t just about making a home look pretty—it’s a strategic way to highlight its best features and help buyers emotionally connect with the space.

In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 82% of buyer’s agents said staging made it easier for their clients to visualize a property as their future home (NAR, 2023). And homes that are staged tend to sell faster and sometimes even for a higher price.

If you’re thinking of selling your home, here are some home-staging tips that can help attract more buyers and maximize your home’s potential.

Declutter & Depersonalize

Buyers want to see themselves living in the space, not your family photos or personal collections. The goal is to create a neutral and inviting atmosphere.

What to do:
Pack away personal photos, religious items, and collectibles.
Clear off countertops, bookshelves, and tables.
Minimize furniture to make rooms look bigger.

Pro Tip: Renting a storage unit or neatly organizing belongings in the garage can help free up space while keeping things accessible.

Focus on Curb Appeal

First impressions start at the curb. Buyers will often decide within seconds if they like a home just based on its exterior.

Quick curb-appeal fixes:
Mow the lawn and trim bushes.
Add fresh mulch and seasonal flowers.
Power wash the driveway and front porch.
Paint or touch up the front door.

Let in Natural Light

Bright, airy homes feel larger and more inviting. Dark rooms can make a home feel smaller and outdated.

Ways to brighten your home:
Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light.
Swap out dim bulbs for brighter, warm lighting.
Use mirrors to reflect light and create a spacious feel.

Pro Tip: If your home lacks natural light, strategically placing floor lamps and wall sconces can help create the right ambiance.

Neutralize Colors & Style

While bold wall colors and trendy décor might reflect your personality, they can be a distraction to buyers. A neutral palette makes it easier for buyers to picture their own style in the home.

What to do:
Repaint walls in neutral tones like white, beige, or light gray.
Swap out busy bedding, rugs, and curtains for simple, light-colored alternatives.
Remove overly bold or trendy décor that might not appeal to a wide audience.

Fun Fact: Homes with neutral-colored walls tend to sell faster because they appeal to more buyers (Zillow, 2023).

Stage Key Rooms First

If you don’t have the budget or time to stage the entire home, focus on the rooms that matter most to buyers:

Living Room: Arrange furniture to create an open and conversational space.
Master Bedroom: Keep it cozy and hotel-like with neutral bedding and minimal furniture.
Kitchen: Declutter countertops and add fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit.

Pro Tip: A well-placed rug, throw pillows, and fresh linens can instantly make a space feel more inviting.

Add Fresh Scents & Finishing Touches

A clean home isn’t just about looks—it’s about smell too. Avoid overpowering air fresheners and focus on subtle, fresh scents.

Simple ways to make your home smell inviting:
Light a lightly scented candle (vanilla, linen, or citrus work well).
Bake cookies or simmer cinnamon sticks on the stove before a showing.
Use fresh flowers or essential oil diffusers with a mild scent.

Final Thoughts

Home staging doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. With a few simple updates, you can transform your space and make it more attractive to buyers. A well-staged home can lead to faster offers and even a higher selling price.

If you’re thinking about selling and need advice on staging your home for maximum impact, let’s connect! I’d love to help you get the best value for your property.

Contact me today for a free home consultation!