6 Home Staging Misconceptions Costing You Money

Sep 16, 2024

There are several home staging misconceptions that could cost you money when selling your property, especially in competitive markets like Dallas and Fort Worth. At A Dural Staging & Design, we see how these myths prevent sellers and investors from getting top dollar when selling their Texas homes.

Let’s debunk the most common misconceptions so you can make informed decisions and maximize your profits.

Misconception #1: Staging is Too Expensive

Many people think home staging is too expensive. However, staging often more than pays for itself. On average, the investment into home staging is between 1-3% of the home’s overall value. Home staging is a home seller’s most effective marketing tool, helping not only attract significantly more buyer interest but also help staged homes sell up to 63% faster than unstaged properties.

Not only that, but the return on investment for home staging is impressive. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), staged homes sell for 1-5% more than non-staged properties​. According to the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA), the average 1.3% home staging investment netted homeowners 7.1% return on investment on the sale of their home. Even a small investment in staging—like modern furniture in a vacant home—can lead to a higher selling price and a faster sale.

Misconception #2: Staging is Only for Luxury Homes

Some realtors or home sellers believe only high-end homes benefit from staging. This belief is far from true. Staging is beneficial at all price points. Whether it’s a small starter home or a luxury estate, staging helps buyers visualize living in the space. According to Stately Home Staging, well-staged homes appeal to a broad range of buyers​ and increase the appeal of homes at all price brackets.

If you want your property to appeal to a broad array of home buyers, regardless of its size or price point, home staging is the most powerful tool you have.

Misconception #3: Homes Will Sell Without Staging in a Seller’s Market

Even in a seller’s market, staging can make a significant difference. A staged home stands out from the competition and can result in multiple offers, increasing the price. Staging can be the key to securing top offers in Dallas and Fort Worth, where the market is hot. Staging is also critical when the market is slow, as a well-staged home will often sell faster and for more money than it’s unstaged competition.

Misconception #4: Staging is Just About Cleaning and Decluttering

Staging involves much more than tidying up. While decluttering is essential, staging creates a cohesive vision. Furniture placement, decor selection, and color schemes all play a part in showcasing a home’s best features. Staging transforms a space, making it feel welcoming and functional.

Misconception#5: Virtual Staging is Just as Effective as Physical Staging

While virtual staging helps improve the marketability of online listings, it doesn’t replace the impact of physical staging. Buyers need to experience a well-staged home in person to truly appreciate its layout and potential. Nothing beats walking into a space and feeling at home immediately.

Physical staging is much more powerful and persuasive than virtual staging because it sells not just the house but the lifestyle that buyers aspire to have. Staging creates that tangible emotional connection when buyers are in the property, which results in properties shifting from for sale to sold.

Misconception #6: DIY Staging is Just as Effective as Professional Staging

DIY staging can improve a home’s appeal, but professional stagers bring expertise that homeowners often lack. From choosing the right furniture to understanding buyer psychology, professionals know how to highlight a property’s strengths and maximize its overall marketability. At A Dural Staging & Design, we specialize in vacant home staging, ensuring each room is carefully planned and designed to help you sell faster.

Our Motto? Stage First, Sell Faster

Selling your Texas home? Don’t let these home staging misconceptions cost you money. Professional staging can significantly increase your property’s value and reduce time on the market. There are so many reasons to invest in home staging and get the most out of your home selling experience. Contact A Dural Staging & Design today and let us help you set the stage for success.