Does staging really make a difference when selling your home?
Absolutely. A well-staged home creates a strong first impression, appeals to more buyers, and often results in higher offers. But poor staging can have the opposite effect—turning buyers away before they’ve even had a chance to see your home’s true potential.
If you’re preparing to sell in Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, or Fuquay Varina, here are five common staging mistakes—and how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Filling Up the Closets
Decluttering is essential—but cramming everything into closets, basements, or garages is not the solution. Buyers peek inside storage areas during showings, and stuffed closets make your home feel cramped.
How to Fix It:
Sort and downsize before listing
Rent a storage unit for excess belongings
Use shelving to maximize vertical space
Mistake 2: Poor Lighting
Lighting influences more than visibility—it sets mood and energy. Heavy curtains, dim bulbs, or harsh white light can all leave buyers with the wrong impression.
How to Fix It:
Remove bulky curtains and clean windows
Use warm, bright bulbs in fixtures
Add mirrors to reflect natural light
Place lamps in dim corners
Mistake 3: Incorrectly Sized Furniture
Furniture that’s too large makes rooms feel cramped, while furniture that’s too small makes spaces look unfinished.
How to Fix It:
Match furniture size to room scale
Use larger, cozy pieces in spacious rooms
Opt for smaller, rounded pieces in tighter spaces
Mistake 4: Too Much Decor
Buyers should notice your home—not your decorations. Overcrowding with bold, personal, or artificial decor can be distracting.
How to Fix It:
Remove personal items (photos, kids’ artwork, religious decor)
Keep color schemes neutral with subtle accents
Use a “less is more” approach—strategic decor, not clutter
Mistake 5: Forgetting the Exterior
Curb appeal sets the tone. A neglected exterior—overgrown lawn, cluttered yard, or dirty siding—can turn buyers off before they step inside.
How to Fix It:
Pressure wash siding, driveway, and walkways
Declutter the yard (toys, old furniture, extra cars)
Invest in simple landscaping for a polished look
Stage Your Home Like a Pro
Staging is one of the most effective ways to showcase your home. A clean, bright, and thoughtfully arranged space invites buyers to imagine themselves living there.
Whether you DIY, lean on your agent’s expertise, or hire a professional stager, the investment pays off in stronger offers and faster sales.
Next Step
I’m Paul Huber, REALTOR® with Huber Real Estate, helping homeowners across Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, and Fuquay Varina stage and market their homes for maximum value. Thinking about selling? Let’s create a strategy that makes your home stand out.