Home Staging Tips for Sellers in a Buyer’s Market: Make Your Property Stand Out

When the market tilts in favor of buyers, they have dozens (sometimes hundreds) of homes to choose from. So, why does home staging matter? Here’s why:

• • It turns your property into a blank canvas where buyers can picture their future.
  • It boosts perceived value. A staged home often looks more expensive, more move-in-ready.
  • It helps you stand out when nearly every home in your neighborhood has a For Sale” sign out front.

Start with the Basics: Clean, Declutter, and Depersonalize

This might seem simple, but you’d be shocked how often I walk into houses that don’t follow these three golden rules.

• • Clean like your MIL’s coming over.Not just tidy, but deep clean. Buyers will notice dusty vents, scuffed floors, and baseboards that haven’t seen a mop in years.
  • Decluttering isn’t optional. Clear countertops, remove extra furniture, and organize those closets. Less is more.
  • Depersonalize. Family photos? Gone. Quirky décor? Store it. Buyers don’t want to feel like they’re walking through your life—they want a blank slate for theirs.

Your house has standout features—maybe it’s a killer kitchen, a spacious backyard, or a sunlit living room. But if buyers can’t see those highlights immediately, you’re losing them.

Here’s how to make them pop:

• • Got a fireplace? Add a stylish mantelpiece, balance some chic décor, and make it cozy.
  • Amazing windows? Open those blinds, pull back the curtains, and let natural light take over.
  • Beautiful floors? Skip the rugs. Let them shine.
  • Built-in shelves? Decorate sparingly with books and minimalist pieces—don’t overcrowd.

Keep it simple, don’t overdo it. The goal is to highlight, not overwhelm the space.

If your walls look dated or dingy, a fresh coat of neutral paint is hands down the fastest fix. Why neutral? It appeals to a wider audience. Think soft grays, creams, or off-whites. Colors like Agreeable Gray or White Dove are sure bets.

Be strategic:

• • Living areas and hallways are prime spots for refreshing.
  • If you’ve got bold or loud colors (hot pink bedroom, anyone?), swap them out for soft tones.

It’s a small investment that packs a massive punch when it comes to first impressions.

Let’s not forget the outside of your home. That’s the first thing buyers see—online and in-person. If it doesn’t catch their eye, you’ve lost them before they even hit the front door.

Here are my go-to curb appeal tips:

• • Pressure-wash the driveway and pathways for that brand-new look.
  • Trim overgrown hedges, mow the lawn, and remove any dead plants.
  • Add fresh mulch to flower beds—it’s like makeup for your yard.
  • Consider a pop of color with flowers or seasonal plants near the entryway.
  • Paint or replace your front door. A deep navy or black door is classic.
  • Swap old house numbers for modern ones.

Your goal? Get buyers excited about your home before they even step inside.

Dark, dim homes feel smaller and less inviting. That’s a killer in a buyer’s market.

Here’s what you do:

• • Natural lighting is king. Open all blinds and curtains for showings and photos.
  • If fixtures are outdated, replace them with modern, LED-equipped lighting. You don’t have to spend big—there are stunning affordable options at Home Depot or Amazon.
  • Add floor or table lamps to darker corners—it creates an ambient, warm vibe buyers love.

Pro Tip: Use white lightbulbs for kitchens and bathrooms but go for warm lights in living spaces.