Why Home Staging Makes the Difference
Buyers decide in the first few seconds whether a property is an option. Online, it's the photos; on-site, it's the overall impression. Home staging – the professional preparation of a property for sale – addresses exactly this and turns rooms into selling points.
Studies by the German Association for Home Staging and Redesign (DGHR) prove: Professionally prepared properties achieve an average of 10 to 15 percent higher sales prices and are sold up to three times faster. Home staging doesn't have to be expensive – targeted measures on a small budget are often sufficient. In addition to visual preparation, you should also prepare the energy certificate in good time.
7 Proven Home Staging Tips
Declutter and Depersonalize
Remove personal photos, collections, and superfluous furniture. Buyers need to be able to imagine themselves living in the property. Less is definitely more here – every room should feel spacious and inviting.
Fresh Paint and Minor Repairs
A fresh coat of paint in neutral tones like white or light gray works wonders. Repair dripping faucets, sticking doors, and chipped tiles. Buyers notice these small things immediately, and they signal a lack of maintenance.
Optimize Light and Atmosphere
Bright rooms appear larger and more inviting. Replace dark curtains with light ones, open blinds, and use warm lighting. Every room should have at least three light sources – a ceiling light, a floor lamp, and an accent light.
Upgrade Kitchen and Bathroom
These two rooms often decide the purchase. New fixtures, fresh grout, and a tidy countertop cost little but have a huge impact. Place fresh towels and a plant in the bathroom – it creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Don't Forget the Exterior
The first impression starts at the front door. Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, clean the driveway, and ensure a well-kept entrance area. A new doormat and fresh plants at the entrance cost little and have a big effect.
Neutralize Odors
Pet odors, smoke, or musty basements deter buyers immediately. Ventilate thoroughly, have carpets professionally cleaned, and use subtle scented candles. Freshly brewed coffee can create an inviting atmosphere during viewings.
Plan for Professional Photography
Over 90 percent of property searches begin online. Professional photos with the right perspective, lighting, and editing make the crucial difference between a click and scrolling on.
Common Mistakes in Home Staging
Even with DIY home staging, there are pitfalls. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Staying too personal: Your favorite decor is not to everyone's taste.
- Too much of a good thing: Overcrowded rooms appear smaller and more restless.
- Ignoring repairs: Minor defects give the impression of a major problem.
- Dark rooms: Lack of light makes rooms look dreary and cramped.
A professional outside perspective helps to avoid operational blindness and to exploit the full potential of your property.
Costs and Benefits at a Glance
The investment in home staging almost always pays off. Even small budgets can have a big impact. Here is a sample calculation for an 80m² apartment:
| Measure | Cost (approx.) | Potential Value Increase |
|---|---|---|
| DIY Staging (Paint, Decor) | € 300 - 800 | + 5-7% |
| Professional Staging (Basic) | € 1.500 - 2.500 | + 10-12% |
| Complete Staging (incl. rental furniture) | € 3.000 - 5.000 | + 15% |
The percentage increase in value refers to the expected sales price without home staging.
Frequently Asked Questions about Home Staging
What does professional home staging cost?
Depending on the scope, professional home staging costs between €1,500 and €5,000 for an average property. You can also implement simple measures such as decluttering, painting, and decorating yourself – often, €200 to €500 for materials is sufficient.
Is home staging really worth it?
Studies show that professionally prepared properties achieve an average of 10 to 15 percent higher sales prices and are sold significantly faster. The investment usually pays for itself several times over.
Do I have to completely empty the property?
No. In many cases, it is sufficient to remove personal items, depersonalize rooms, and work with targeted neutral accessories. Empty rooms often feel cold – a minimalist, stylish interior is ideal.
When should I start with home staging?
Ideally, before the first photos and viewings. The preparation should be completed before the exposé is created – because the first impression online determines the interest of potential buyers.
Conclusion: Home Staging is an Investment, Not a Cost
The professional preparation of your property is one of the most effective levers for a successful sale. You create an atmosphere in which buyers immediately feel at home and are willing to pay a higher price. Whether you do it yourself or with a professional – the effort is worth it.
Would you like to know the exact value of your property and discuss an individual sales strategy? We at NORDHALL Real Estate offer you a free and non-binding property valuation.
Enes Gülcan
Immobilienexperte & Gründer von Nordhall Immobilien
Ich begleite Eigentümer in Augsburg persönlich beim Verkauf ihrer Immobilie – diskret, strukturiert und mit dem Anspruch, für Sie das bestmögliche Ergebnis zu erzielen.
— Enes Gülcan