How Home Staging Turned a Stale Listing Into a $425,000 Win
Nichole Story
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter more than most sellers realize. I saw this firsthand last summer when I listed a split-level property that had gone through several remodels over the years. While the home had potential, the mix of dated finishes and an empty interior made it hard for buyers to connect with.
At the seller’s request, we initially listed the home vacant. After 120 days on the market, the best verbal offer we received was $2.7 million—and that offer never went anywhere. The home simply wasn’t showing in its best light.
Finally, the seller agreed to let me step in and refresh the property. We took the home off the market and made strategic updates:
Cleaned up the landscaping for instant curb appeal
Added lighting to update spaces and add focal points and interest
Swapped out mirrors, fixtures, and bathroom details to create an elevated space
Installed new hardware for a more cohesive look and to update outdated finishes
I staged staged the home to highlight its layout and potential
The results were immediate. The same day we re-listed the home, buyers who had previously passed on it called through their agent to make an offer. This time, the home sold for $3.125 million—a $425,000 difference from the highest verbal offer we’d had before.
Why Home Staging Works + Refreshing works
According to the National Association of Realtors, 83% of buyer’s agents say staging makes it easier for buyers to visualize a property as their future home. In fact, staged homes typically sell 88% faster and for 20% more than non-staged homes. When buyers walk into a well-staged home, they aren’t distracted by flaws—they’re inspired by possibilities.
In this case, staging didn’t just speed up the sale—it added nearly half a million dollars in value. That’s the power of combining thoughtful updates with professional home staging.
The Bottom Line
If you’re considering selling your home, don’t underestimate the impact of presentation. Small refreshes paired with staging can transform how buyers perceive your property—and dramatically affect your bottom line.
As this listing proved, a little investment upfront can yield an incredible return.
Thinking about selling your home in Orange County? Let’s talk about how staging and strategic updates can help you achieve the highest possible sale price.