Is Home Staging Worth It?

By James and Katie Boyle

James and Katie Boyle are a dedicated real estate duo with over 25 years of experience, specializing in Cape May and Atlantic Counties.

“Is home staging worth it?” If you want to increase your home’s value and attract more buyers, it is an absolute must-do. But there’s more than one way to stage a home. You have two options: physical staging or virtual staging. Each has its benefits, and it all depends on your needs and budget. Let’s break down both options so you can decide what’s best for your home.

Physical staging. It is just what it sounds like—placing actual furniture and decor in your home to make it look its best. When buyers walk through, they can see what each room could look like if they lived there. It creates an inviting atmosphere and helps them picture their life in space. It’s a great way to make an empty home feel warm and lived-in.

But physical staging comes at a price. It’s more expensive than virtual staging. However, the investment can pay off, especially when it means buyers are willing to pay more for your property. It’s ideal if you want to create that “wow” factor during in-person tours.

Virtual Staging. If you’re looking for a more affordable way to stage your home, virtual staging might be the answer. It’s a process where we use digital tools to add furniture and decor to photos of your empty rooms. It’s quick—we can get a home virtually staged within 24 hours—and it still gives buyers a clear idea of how to use the space.

We recently listed a dated property in Northfield, and James worked his magic with virtual staging. In no time, the space looked modern and fresh in the photos. It helped buyers see the potential of the home, even though the property itself hadn’t changed. Virtual staging is especially useful for vacant homes or spaces that need a little imagination to shine.

Choosing between physical and virtual staging comes down to budget and your goals. Physical staging is more immersive, but it’s a bigger investment. Virtual staging is less costly and is great for online listings, where photos make the first impression. It’s also a good option if you need to work within a tighter budget or want to stage only certain rooms.

With virtual staging, there are around 8 to 10 styles to choose from, allowing you to find a look that matches your property’s vibe. It’s perfect for giving buyers a glimpse of what could be, without the high cost of bringing in actual furniture. If you’re thinking about staging your home, whether in person or virtually, we’d love to help you decide what’s best for your situation. Give us a call at (609) 226-0678.