People often focus on updating colors when staging because it’s a quick, visible change that creates a fresh impression, but they forget that effective staging also relies on lighting, layout, cleanliness, and depersonalization.
To truly appeal to buyers, sellers must consider furniture arrangement, curb appeal, and clutter to highlight the home’s best features.
Reality #1: Paint Can’t Fix a Poor Layout
Color alone can’t fix the flow of a room because it doesn’t address how people move through or function within the space. Staging creates a clear vision for how buyers can use each area, making awkward layouts feel intentional and inviting. It can downplay a home’s flaws while strategically highlighting its strengths, helping buyers emotionally connect to the property.
Reality #2: Paint Won’t Set the Right Price
While color has no real impact on a home’s perceived value, staging directly influences how buyers judge its worth because the quality, materials, and style of furnishings signal a lifestyle and price point to buyers.
Thoughtful staging helps buyers see the home as more luxurious or move-in ready, which can justify a higher list price. In contrast, poor or no staging can make even a well-maintained home feel underwhelming and undervalued.
Reality #3: Paint Doesn’t Connect with Buyers
Color won’t connect with a potential buyer because it’s just surface-level. However, staging tells a story about how the space can support their lifestyle. Staging is thoughtfully designed with the ideal buyer in mind, focusing on the lifestyle, design preferences, and functionality that will resonate most with them.
This targeted approach helps buyers see themselves in the home, making it far more compelling and marketable.
Key Reasons Staging Matters More Than Paint When Selling Your Home
- Staging highlights flow, layout, and functionality that paint alone can’t fix.
- Home staging increases perceived value by showing buyers a lifestyle and quality that supports a higher list price.
- Staging connects emotionally with buyers by telling a story about how they can live in the space, while paint is only surface-level.
- Professional staging helps homes sell faster and for more money, giving your listing a competitive edge in today’s real estate market.
If you’re ready to sell your listing profitably, reach out to us before you reach for that paintbrush! We will help you stage with intention.
Warmly,
Christa
Meet the Designer
Mickler & Co. is a full-service interior design studio based in Wilmington, NC, led by Principal Designer Rebecca Mickler and Designer Christa Mitchell.
With over 20 years of experience in architectural design, staging, and interiors, Rebecca and her team create spaces that are both functional and beautiful, tailored to reflect each client’s unique lifestyle and vision.
