When preparing to sell your home, one of the biggest questions sellers ask is: Is staging actually worth the cost? And just as importantly: How much should I expect to spend?

The short answer: Yes, staging matters — and the impact is bigger than most people realize.

According to Realtor.com, a professionally staged home:

• Sells 88% faster than a non-staged home
• Sells for up to 20% more money
• Attracts more tours — about 10% more
• Keeps buyers in the home longer — 40 minutes vs. 5 minutes for an unstaged property

These aren’t small differences. They’re game-changing advantages that affect your bottom line.

Why Staging Works: What Buyers Really See

When buyers walk into a home, they’re not just looking at walls and floors — they’re imagining their life there.

Staging helps make that vision crystal clear by:

• Highlighting the home’s best features
• Creating a sense of flow and spaciousness
• Softening any awkward corners or small rooms
• Making a stronger emotional impression
• Allowing buyers to visualize furniture placement
• Presenting the home as move-in ready

Buyers often decide within minutes whether a home “feels right” — and staging gives your home a polished, intentional look that instantly resonates.

How Much Does Home Staging Cost?

Most professional staging companies charge based on the size of the home, the number of rooms staged, and the level of furniture needed.

On average, expect to spend between $3,500 and $5,000 for a full staging package.

This typically includes:

• Furniture rental
• Delivery and pickup
• Design and layout planning
• Decor, art, lighting, and accessories

In competitive markets like San Mateo County, staging is often not optional — it’s a strategic investment that helps your home stand out both online and in person.

Why Staging Pays for Itself (and Then Some)

Let’s connect the dots:

If staging helps your home sell for 10–20% more, even a $3,500–$5,000 investment can yield tens of thousands of dollars in additional profit.

Example:

If your home is listed at $1,200,000, a 10% increase equals $120,000 more.

Staging becomes a tiny percentage of the return.

Even better, staged homes typically sell faster — reducing stress, carrying costs, and the risk of price reductions.

Real Results From Our Listings

We consistently see staging transform homes — even with modest budgets.

For example, in one of our recent listings at 1380 Greenwich St. in San Francisco, (hyperlink to case study blog) we invested just:

• $3,500 in strategic updates, and 
• $3,400 in staging

The result?

Sold in 14 days for $16,000 over asking.

It’s proof that thoughtful preparation + staging + strong marketing = real financial impact.

Final Thoughts

So, is staging worth it?

Absolutely.

It’s one of the highest-ROI actions you can take as a seller.

It makes your home look its best, helps buyers fall in love instantly, and positions you to sell faster and for more money.

If you’re thinking about selling and want a personalized staging and preparation plan, we’d be happy to help you understand exactly what will have the biggest impact for your specific home.

Thinking of selling? Reach out — we’ll help you make your home shine.