By Maria Stokes
Staging an empty home is a bit like cooking a gourmet meal—it takes the right ingredients, careful preparation, and a pinch of creativity.
Whether you’re selling a brand-new build, a freshly renovated property, or a once-loved ex-rental, how you present the space can make or break its selling potential.
Did you know that staged homes actually sell 3x faster than non-staged ones, generate 94% more viewings than the competition, and often sell for 5-10% more money. It’s all the proof you need to know that staging sells!
So, we’re here to help you avoid the most common staging mistakes and turn that empty house into a buyer’s dream.
1. Leaving It Completely Empty
Let’s bust a myth: Buyers do NOT have x-ray vision when it comes to imagining furniture placement. An empty property doesn’t show off its potential—it just leaves buyers confused.
Why it matters: An empty room can feel cold and smaller than it actually is. Plus, buyers tend to focus on imperfections when there’s nothing else to look at.
Friendly fix: As a minimum, stage key areas like the living room, kitchen, and primary bedroom. Even staging just a few rooms can bring life and warmth into the home – although home staging throughout the whole property is even better!
2. Using the Wrong Furniture or Layout
Ever walk into a room and think, “Why is that sofa blocking the window?" The wrong furniture (or a weird layout) can confuse buyers and make rooms feel awkward.
Why it matters: Empty homes need staging to create a sense of flow. Bad layouts? Instant turnoff.
Friendly fix: Pick furniture that fits the space. Don’t cram in oversized pieces or leave things too sparse. Keep the layout simple and open to guide buyers through naturally.
3. Forgetting the Emotional Connection
An empty home can feel, well, a bit soulless. Without cosy touches, buyers may struggle to picture their life there.
Why it matters: Buying a home is an emotional decision. If the space feels cold and sterile, buyers may move on without a second thought.
Friendly fix: Add warmth with soft throws, cushions, fresh flowers, artwork or even a bowl of fruit in the kitchen. Show them it’s not just a house—it’s a future home.
4. Ignoring Lighting
Lighting can either make or break a space. Too dark? Buyers might wonder if the house is hiding secrets. Too bright and harsh? They might feel like they’re in a hospital.
Why it matters: Good lighting creates ambiance and highlights the home’s best features.
Friendly fix: Use layers of light: overheads, floor lamps, and natural light. Open those blinds and consider warm-toned bulbs to create a cosy, inviting feel.
5. Overlooking Kerb Appeal
The exterior is the first thing buyers see. If they’re greeted by overgrown grass and peeling paint, they might not even make it inside.
Why it matters: First impressions last. A messy exterior can make buyers question how well a property has generally been looked after and what’s waiting for them inside.
Friendly fix: Keep the lawn neat, plant fresh flowers, and give the front door (and the garage door if you have one) a fresh coat of paint. Even small touches like a cute doormat or potted plants can work wonders.
6. Skipping Minor Repairs
In an empty home, there’s no furniture to hide imperfections. Buyers will spot every scuff, scratch, stain and squeaky door.
Why it matters: Visible flaws can make buyers wonder how much effort and money it will cost them to redecorate and replace floorings etc, and if there are bigger maintenance issues lurking.
Friendly fix: Touch up paint, fix loose handles, clean carpets and floorings and address any squeaky hinges. Small repairs can make the home feel well cared for.
7. Forgetting About Storage Spaces
When buyers open closets or cabinets and see dust or leftover junk, it’s a major turnoff.
Why it matters: Clean and well-organised storage spaces suggest that the entire home is well-maintained.
Friendly fix: Give closets and cabinets a clean sweep. Leave them mostly empty to show off the available storage potential.
8. Using Outdated or Generic Decor
Throwing in grandma’s old furniture or random decor from the attic won’t do the home any favours.
Why it matters: Buyers are looking for fresh, modern spaces—not a trip down memory lane.
Friendly fix: Use sleek, neutral furniture and decor that fits the home’s style. A contemporary new build calls for modern touches, while a cosy renovation may benefit from warm, classic accents.
9. Ignoring Key Selling Points
Every home has standout features—but if you don’t highlight them, buyers might miss them completely.
Why it matters: If buyers don’t notice the high ceilings, beautiful windows, or stunning kitchen, those features lose their impact.
Friendly fix: Arrange furniture and decor to draw attention to these features. For example, place a seating area near large windows to showcase natural light.
10. Trying to Do It All Yourself
We get it—staging it yourself can be tempting. But staging is more than just putting a sofa in the living room and hoping for the best.
Why it matters: DIY staging can lead to rookie mistakes that cost you time and money. It’s easy to underestimate how much goes into creating a picture-perfect space.
Friendly fix: Call in the pros! Professional stagers know exactly how to showcase the home’s potential, highlight its best features and have an abundance of furniture and accessories that will complement the property to create a space that buyers can’t resist.
Final Thoughts
Staging an empty home doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding these common mistakes and adding thoughtful, inviting touches, you’ll create a space that buyers will fall in love with.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember: leaving staging to the professionals can save you time, energy, and potentially help you sell your home faster—and for a higher price. After all, every home deserves its moment to shine!
Comments