Selling your home is about more than putting up a “For Sale” sign and snapping a few photos—it’s about helping potential buyers imagine themselves living in the space. One of the best ways to do that? Home Staging.

At Good Donut Realty, we believe every home deserves to look as sweet as possible before it hits the market. Whether you’re working with a professional stager or taking the DIY route, here’s why staging, especially when you’re considering home staging, can be the secret ingredient to getting your home sold faster—and for more money.

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What Is Home Staging, Exactly?

Staging is the process of preparing your home for sale by making it as appealing as possible to potential buyers. It goes beyond cleaning—staging includes things like:

• Rearranging furniture to maximize space and flow
• Removing personal items so buyers can visualize their lives there
• Adding neutral, modern decor that creates a warm and inviting feel
• Using lighting, artwork, and accessories to highlight the home’s best features

Think of it as setting the scene. You’re not just selling square footage—you’re selling a lifestyle.

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The Stats Speak for Themselves

Still not convinced? Here are a few reasons why staging is a smart move:

• Staged homes sell 73% faster than non-staged homes, according to the Real Estate Staging Association.
• Homes that are staged typically receive higher offers, sometimes up to 10% more than their unstaged counterparts.
• In a competitive market, proper home staging helps your home stand out in online listings—where most buyers form their first impressions.

🍩Sweet Tip: Buyers make up their minds within the first 7 seconds of entering a home. Staging helps make sure those seconds are working in your favor.

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Why It Works: The Psychology Behind Staging

When buyers walk into a staged home, they’re not just seeing furniture—they’re seeing possibility. Staging helps:

• Create an emotional connection. A cozy throw blanket or a vase of fresh flowers makes a space feel lived in and loved.
• Show off the potential. That awkward nook becomes a reading corner. The guest room becomes a serene office.
• Minimize distractions. Too much clutter or overly personal decor (yes, even your kids’ art gallery wall) can make buyers focus on the wrong things.

It’s all about helping buyers imagine themselves living there—from their morning coffee routine to their Sunday family dinners.

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Staging vs. Decorating: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to confuse staging with decorating, but they serve different purposes. Decorating is about your style. Staging is about broad appeal.

Your favorite bold wallpaper may not speak to every buyer—but a neutral color palette and simplified furniture layout will. With staging less is often more.

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Do You Need A Pro?

Not always. Many sellers can do light staging on their own, especially with some guidance from their agent (that’s where I come in). However, if your home is vacant or needs a major refresh, a professional stager may be worth the investment.

In fact, staging is often less expensive than your first price reduction. And if it helps you sell faster and at a higher price? That’s money well spent.

🍩Sweet Tip: Staging doesn’t have to break the bank. Sometimes, simply removing a few items and rearranging what you already own can completely transform the look and feel of your space through home staging.

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