Trends in Home Staging: What's In and What's Out

15 January 2025

Selling a home is no longer just about putting a “For Sale” sign in the yard and hoping for the best. Today’s home buyers are savvy, picky, and have thousands of options at their fingertips thanks to online listings. That's where home staging comes in—a game changer that can make or break the way buyers view (and value) your home. But as with all things, trends in home staging evolve. What worked a few years ago might make your home seem dated today. So, let’s dive into what’s hot and what’s not in the world of home staging in 2023.
Trends in Home Staging: What's In and What's Out

Why Home Staging Matters

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why home staging is such a big deal. You know how people say, “First impressions matter”? Well, staging is essentially the first impression your house makes on potential buyers. It transforms a lived-in home into a blank canvas that buyers can envision as their own.

And get this—staged homes sell for 6-10% more on average than non-staged ones. They also tend to spend less time on the market. In short, staging is like dressing your house in its best outfit for picture day.
Trends in Home Staging: What's In and What's Out

What’s In: The Hottest Home Staging Trends

Let’s start by talking about what’s currently stealing the show in home staging. If you’re getting ready to sell, these are the techniques and styles you’ll want to embrace.

1. Neutral, But Warm Color Palettes

Gone are the days of stark whites and icy grays. While neutral tones are still the foundation of great staging, buyers in 2023 are craving warmth. Think soft taupes, creamy beiges, and even subtle earth tones like olive or terracotta.

Why the shift? It’s partially psychological. Warm colors create a sense of calm and make a house feel more inviting. Buyers subconsciously associate warmth with comfort—exactly the vibe you want to project.

2. Sustainable (and Stylish) Decor

Sustainability isn’t just trendy—it’s a lifestyle. More buyers are eco-conscious, which means the materials and decor in a staged home need to reflect that. Furniture made from reclaimed wood, organic textiles, and even potted plants (hello, fiddle-leaf figs!) are all the rage.

Here’s the kicker: sustainable decor doesn’t just appeal to buyers’ values; it also makes the home feel more luxurious and on-trend. It’s a win-win.

3. Home Office Spaces

Remember when the pandemic turned everyone’s kitchen table into a makeshift desk? Well, buyers now expect dedicated home office spaces. Even if your home doesn’t have an extra room, staging a nook with a sleek desk and comfortable chair can do wonders.

Pro Tip: Add details like a stylish desk lamp, a stack of books, or a small potted plant to make it feel functional yet cozy.

4. Strategic Minimalism

Minimalism is still in, but not the cold, echoey kind. We’re talking about “strategic minimalism,” where every piece in the room serves a purpose. Think clean lines, clutter-free surfaces, and a balance of open space and cozy touches.

It’s not about stripping the room bare; it’s about letting the room itself shine. Buyers should see the potential in the space, not a pile of your personal belongings.

5. Lifestyle Staging

In 2023, staging has become more about selling a lifestyle than just a house. Do you have a cozy reading nook? Flaunt it with a book, some tea, and a soft throw blanket. Got a dreamy outdoor patio? Stage it with string lights and a bottle of wine.

The idea is simple: show buyers not just what the house is, but how they could live in it. The more aspirational (yet achievable) the vision, the better.
Trends in Home Staging: What's In and What's Out

What’s Out: Trends That Are So Yesterday

Not all trends age gracefully. Some staging techniques that were once considered cutting-edge are now major turn-offs. Here’s what you should avoid if you want your home to feel modern and market-ready.

1. Overpersonalization

Ever walked into a house and been bombarded by family photos and quirky knick-knacks? It might be charming to the owner, but for buyers, it’s a distraction. Personal items make it harder for people to imagine the home as theirs.

Instead, aim for a clean, universal look. That doesn’t mean completely sterile—just keep it neutral and tasteful.

2. Over-the-Top Themes

Beach-themed bathrooms with seashell everything? Farmhouse overload with shiplap on every wall? Hard pass. Over-the-top themes might have been a hit on Pinterest a few years ago, but they’re outdated and often alienate buyers.

Instead, opt for subtle nods to a theme. A nautical touch here, a rustic element there—it’s all about balance.

3. Dark, Heavy Furniture

Bulky, oversized furniture makes rooms feel smaller and less inviting. It’s 2023—buyers want light, airy, and open spaces! Replace that massive mahogany sofa with something sleek and modern.

Even if you love your big furniture, remember that staging isn’t about you. It’s about what appeals to buyers.

4. Ignoring Outdoor Spaces

In today’s market, outdoor spaces matter just as much as indoor ones. Neglect your patio, deck, or garden, and buyers might feel like they’re missing out.

Gone are the days when throwing some plastic chairs outside was enough. Today, people want outdoor spaces to feel like an extension of the home. Think cozy seating, tasteful landscaping, and maybe even a fire pit.
Trends in Home Staging: What's In and What's Out

Quick Tips for Successful Home Staging

- Light It Up: Natural light is your best friend. Open the curtains, clean the windows, and add lamps where needed.
- Smarten Up the Smells: No overpowering candles! Stick with subtle, fresh scents like citrus or linen.
- Don’t Forget Curb Appeal: First impressions start before buyers even walk in the door. Trim the hedges, pull the weeds, and add a welcoming touch like a seasonal wreath.
- Hire a Pro, If Needed: Staging might seem easy, but it’s an art. Bringing in a professional can help you get top dollar for your home.

Final Thoughts

Home staging isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s about creating an emotional connection between the buyer and the space. The good news? By knowing what’s in and what’s out, you can make your home stand out for all the right reasons. Whether you’re embracing warm colors, ditching outdated themes, or turning an awkward corner into a home office, smart staging can make a difference.

At the end of the day, buyers won’t just remember the features of your home—they’ll remember how it made them feel. And isn’t that the whole point?

all images in this post were generated using AI tools

Category:

Home Staging

Author:

Melanie Kirkland

Discussion

rate this article

17 comments

Kova Pratt

Home staging is evolving; minimalism and sustainability are in, while overly ornate designs are out. As buyers prioritize functionality and eco-friendliness, staging that highlights space and natural elements will resonate more than ever.

March 31, 2025 at 3:13 AM

Melanie Kirkland

Absolutely! The shift towards minimalism and sustainability in home staging reflects buyers' growing desire for functional and eco-friendly spaces. Highlighting natural elements is key to resonating with modern preferences.

Emily Gibson

Great article! It’s fascinating to see how home staging trends evolve. Staying updated on what's in and out can truly enhance the appeal of properties. Looking forward to applying these insights in my own staging efforts! Keep it coming!

February 7, 2025 at 4:57 AM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you for your kind words! I'm glad you found the insights helpful. Happy staging!

Nyx Willis

Insightful overview! Embracing sustainable materials and minimalism is key; outdated decor and over-personalization have no place in today’s staging.

February 2, 2025 at 1:46 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you! I completely agree—sustainability and minimalism are essential for modern staging.

Paris Hurst

Great insights on home staging trends! It's fascinating to see how preferences evolve. These tips will surely help sellers make their homes more appealing in today's competitive market. Keep up the fantastic work!

January 30, 2025 at 9:59 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you for your kind words! I'm glad you found the insights helpful. Happy staging!

Isabelle McCloud

Home staging is evolving, and understanding the latest trends is essential for sellers. Embrace a minimalist aesthetic with bold accents while avoiding outdated decor. Staying current not only enhances appeal but also maximizes your property's potential in today's competitive market.

January 28, 2025 at 8:49 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you for highlighting the importance of adapting to evolving home staging trends! Embracing minimalism with striking accents can truly elevate a property's presentation in today's market.

Tristan Mitchell

Home staging is not just a trend; it's a game changer. Say goodbye to bland and outdated decor! Today’s buyers crave authenticity and warmth. Embrace bold colors, eclectic styles, and personal touches that tell a story. Staging should inspire, not conform. Be daring, be memorable, or be forgotten!

January 25, 2025 at 7:25 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Absolutely! Home staging is essential for creating captivating spaces that resonate with buyers. Authenticity and bold design truly set a property apart in today's market.

Thornefield Barlow

Home staging transcends mere aesthetics; it reflects our evolving values, balancing personal expression with buyer psychology in an ever-changing market.

January 23, 2025 at 11:45 AM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you for your insightful comment! You're absolutely right—home staging not only enhances visual appeal but also aligns with buyer psychology and current values, making it a dynamic aspect of real estate.

Otto Fisher

Great insights! Home staging can truly transform spaces. It's important to adapt to trends while maintaining a personal touch that resonates.

January 21, 2025 at 3:58 AM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you! I completely agree—balancing current trends with personal touches is key to effective home staging.

Roxanne Kirkpatrick

Great insights! It's fascinating to see how home staging trends evolve; decluttering and neutral colors definitely remain timeless.

January 20, 2025 at 8:11 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you! I'm glad you found the insights valuable—timeless elements like decluttering and neutral colors truly make a lasting impact in home staging.

Ximena Simmons

In an era where authenticity reigns, home staging evolves beyond mere aesthetics. Today's trends emphasize creating emotional connections through storytelling and personalization. As buyers seek spaces that resonate with their aspirations, the art of staging transforms into a powerful vehicle for genuine engagement and inspiration.

January 20, 2025 at 11:36 AM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you for your insightful comment! I completely agree—home staging is moving towards creating emotional connections and personalized experiences that truly resonate with buyers' aspirations.

Daria Russell

Great insights! It’s fascinating to see how home staging evolves to reflect current trends and buyer preferences. Understanding these changes can truly help sellers create inviting spaces that resonate emotionally with potential buyers. Thank you for sharing!

January 20, 2025 at 5:38 AM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you for your kind words! I'm glad you found the insights helpful in understanding the dynamic nature of home staging.

Ryder McFarland

Home staging is evolving faster than a chameleon at a paint store. While minimalism and bold colors are in, overstuffed furniture and heavy drapes are out. Keep it fresh and inviting—think "lived-in luxury" rather than "museum exhibit." After all, buyers want to envision their own lives, not yours!

January 19, 2025 at 7:24 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Absolutely! The shift towards "lived-in luxury" emphasizes warmth and personal touch, making spaces feel inviting and relatable—perfect for helping buyers envision their future in a home.

Zara Ward

This article brilliantly highlights the evolving trends in home staging, emphasizing the shift towards sustainable materials and personalized touches while moving away from overly generic decor.

January 17, 2025 at 8:32 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you for your insightful comment! I'm glad you found the article highlights on sustainability and personalization in home staging valuable.

Gabriella White

Great insights! Staging truly transforms buyer perceptions.

January 17, 2025 at 1:55 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you! I'm glad you found the insights helpful. Staging really does make a significant impact!

Zyana Montgomery

This article provides a valuable overview of current home staging trends. While embracing minimalist aesthetics is refreshing, it's important to remember that personalization still holds value. Finding a balance between contemporary design and individual flair can enhance a home's appeal.

January 17, 2025 at 3:39 AM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you for your insightful comment! I completely agree that balancing minimalist design with personal touches can truly elevate a home's appeal.

Marissa McElhinney

Embrace the change, style your space!

January 16, 2025 at 8:12 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Absolutely! Embracing change is key to keeping your space fresh and inviting. Happy styling!

Mira McAllister

Great insights on home staging trends! Embracing what's current can truly elevate property appeal. Your tips are invaluable for both sellers and agents looking to make a lasting impression!

January 15, 2025 at 7:56 PM

Melanie Kirkland

Thank you! I’m glad you found the insights helpful. Elevating property appeal is essential for success in the market!