Why Staging Matters More Than Ever
If you've ever wondered whether home staging really makes a difference, the latest National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) data says it loud and clear: staging boosts both sale price and speed of sale.
In NAR's 2025 Profile of Home Staging, real estate professionals across the country reported measurable results from staging — and let's be honest, the numbers are worth paying attention to.
Key Findings from the NAR Report
Higher Offers – That 29% number isn't just a statistic — it's money in your pocket. When you're talking about a $900,000 home in Oceanside, even a modest 1% bump equals $9,000. That's basically turning your staging bill into a money printer.
Faster Sales – Nearly half (49%) of sellers' agents reported staging reduced time on market, with 19% seeing a significant time reduction. Let's face it, every day your house sits on the market costs you money in carrying costs and stress.
Most Important Rooms to Stage – Here's the kicker: the data shows exactly where to focus your staging dollars for maximum impact:
- Living room (37%) — This is your money room
- Primary bedroom (34%) — Where buyers envision their daily retreat
- Kitchen (23%) — The heart of the home
Why This Matters for Oceanside & North County San Diego Sellers
Our market is competitive, with buyers comparing multiple listings daily. The difference between a "nice" home and a must-have home often comes down to presentation.
Buyers in Oceanside, Carlsbad, Vista, Encinitas, and surrounding areas expect homes to look as polished as the ones they see on HGTV. Here's the reality check: NAR's survey found that 48% of buyers expect staged homes to match TV-show quality — and 58% are disappointed when they don't.
BEFORE: Empty Living Room
AFTER: Staged for Success
Real before/after from our Monte Fuego Ranch project — sold in 6 days with multiple offers
The Cost vs. Return
Here's where the math gets interesting: even a modest 1% bump on a $900,000 home equals $9,000 in additional sale price. When you compare that to typical staging costs, you're looking at returns that can be six times your investment or more.
Our Take
At Staged4Sale, we've seen the local proof firsthand. A staged home photographs better, attracts more online clicks, and creates emotional impact during showings. That often means more offers, higher prices, and less time waiting for closing day.
The NAR data confirms what we've been telling North County sellers for years: staging isn't just decoration, it's a sales strategy that works.