In a seller’s market, where inventory is flying off the MLS, is there still an ROI on staging?
Decades of examples show that staging typically leads to higher sale prices and faster sales, with a strong return on investment (ROI). Here's a breakdown of key considerations for staging in a sellers market:
Key Benefits of Staging
Buyers are naturally drawn to homes that feel inviting, polished, and move-in ready—which is exactly what staging delivers. A well-staged home helps potential buyers emotionally connect with the space, envision themselves living there, and see the property’s full potential. In fact, staged homes have been shown to sell up to 30 times faster than their unstaged counterparts. By highlighting the home’s best features and creating a sense of warmth and flow, staging not only reduces the time a property spends on the market but can also lead to stronger offers and a smoother sales process.
Even minimal staging can significantly boost interest and drive up competition. But the biggest reason to stage? Staged properties typically sell for 1–20% more than unstaged ones. In competitive markets, that can translate to $40,000+ over asking—a massive return on investment when professional staging often costs between $600 and $10,000. For sellers looking to stand out and maximize profit, staging is more than a nice-to-have—it’s a strategic advantage.
Which Rooms to Stage
Focus on high-impact areas that influence buyer decisions most:
Living room (most critical for first impressions)
Primary bedroom (emphasize tranquility and space)
Kitchen (highlight cleanliness and modernity)
Dining room (stage for entertaining potential)
Outdoor spaces (boost curb appeal and functionality)
If budget is limited, prioritize living room and primary bedroom will get the best return as buyers can envision themselves living in these spaces, and start to see how their furniture will be placed.
How Detailed to Be
Sellers should highlight each room’s functionality by clearly defining its purpose—whether it’s a home office, guest room, or flex space—and ensuring that storage solutions are neat and visible. For vacant properties or sellers working with a limited budget, virtual staging can be a smart, cost-effective alternative. Digitally furnishing key rooms like the living area and primary bedroom helps buyers understand the layout and potential of the space, even if it’s currently empty.
Even when homes are flying off the market, staging gives your property a competitive edge—often leading to faster sales, stronger offers, and higher sale prices. In a seller’s market, you’re already in a good position—but staging helps you capitalize on that momentum. It transforms “just listed” into “must have.”
If you want to make the most of every showing, maximize your return, and create a listing that stands out in a sea of buyer demand, staging is not just worth it, we believe it’s one of the smartest investments you can make.
If you’re looking to fund a ground-up project or explore real estate-backed investments, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.
Call us today for help with your investing needs!
Debra T. Hayes
Founder, Principal & Legal Counsel
(262) 613-1627
Debra@MGMPrivateCapital.com