Should You Hire a Professional Stager or Go DIY?

25 June 2025

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. Buyers decide within seconds if a house "feels right," and that means presentation is crucial. But here’s the real question: should you hire a professional stager or take the DIY route?

Both options have their own set of advantages and drawbacks. Some homeowners swear by professional staging, claiming it seals the deal faster and at a higher price. Others prefer to roll up their sleeves, declutter, and stage their home themselves to save money.

So, which route should you take? Let's break it down.

What Is Home Staging and Why Does It Matter?

Home staging is the art of preparing a property for sale by enhancing its best features and making it more appealing to potential buyers. The goal? To make buyers feel like they can see themselves living in that space.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), staged homes sell 73% faster than non-staged ones. Not only that, but homes that are well-staged can also sell for up to 10% more than their unstaged counterparts. Clearly, staging isn’t just about making things look pretty—it’s a powerful selling tool.

But should you leave this task to a pro or tackle it yourself? That depends on your budget, your skill level, and the current state of your home.

The Case for Hiring a Professional Stager

1. They Know What Works

Professional stagers are trained to highlight a home’s strengths and minimize its weaknesses. They understand buyer psychology and know exactly what needs to be done to create an inviting, desirable space.

Do you have an awkward floor plan? An outdated color scheme? A tiny living room? A professional will know how to work around those challenges.

2. They Have the Right Inventory

Most stagers have access to a variety of furniture, décor, and accessories that can give your home a modern, stylish look. If your furniture is outdated or your rooms look empty, staging can make a world of difference.

3. They Save You Time and Stress

If you're already juggling work, family, and the stress of moving, the last thing you need is to spend weeks figuring out how to arrange furniture or choose paint colors. A professional comes in with a plan and executes it efficiently.

4. They Can Increase Your Home’s Value

Many real estate agents believe that staging can add thousands of dollars to a home’s final sale price. Buyers are willing to pay more for a home that looks move-in ready, and staging plays a huge part in that perception.

5. They Provide an Unbiased Perspective

When you've lived in a place for years, it's easy to overlook its flaws. A professional stager brings a fresh, objective eye and will notice things that you might never have thought needed changing.

The Downside? It’s Not Cheap

Let’s be real—professional staging isn’t free. Prices vary, but full-service staging can range from $1,500 to $5,000+, depending on the size of your home and how much work is needed.

If you live in a high-end market, staging could cost even more. While many sellers see a return on this investment, not everyone has the upfront cash to spend.

The DIY Staging Approach – Can You Pull It Off?

If hiring a professional stager isn’t in your budget, don’t panic—you can definitely go the DIY route. It takes effort, but with the right strategy, you can still make a big impact.

1. Declutter Like Your Sale Depends on It (Because It Does!)

If there’s one thing every DIY home stager must do, it’s declutter. Get rid of excess furniture, personal items, and anything that feels out of place. Buyers want to visualize their own lives in the home, and too many personal belongings make that difficult.

A good rule of thumb? Cut your belongings by at least 50%. If it’s not essential, pack it up or donate it.

2. Neutralize Colors and Decor

Bold paint colors and unique décor can be distractions. If your walls are bright red or neon green, consider repainting in neutral tones like beige, gray, or soft white. Neutral colors make a space feel bigger, cleaner, and more inviting.

3. Strategic Furniture Placement

Maximize space by arranging furniture in a way that makes rooms feel open and functional. Remove oversized pieces that make rooms feel cramped. If your current furniture is outdated, slipcovers and simple styling tricks can give it a fresh look.

4. Improve Lighting

A bright home feels larger and more welcoming. Open the curtains, clean the windows, and replace dim or outdated light bulbs with bright LED options. If a room lacks natural light, consider adding lamps or mirrors to reflect light better.

5. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions start at the curb. Mow the lawn, power wash the driveway, plant fresh flowers, and repaint the front door if needed. A well-maintained exterior can set the tone for the rest of the home before buyers even step inside.

DIY vs. Professional Staging – Which Is Right for You?

So, should you hire a professional or stage your home yourself? Ask yourself these questions:

- What’s your budget? If you have the money to invest, hiring a stager could help sell your home faster and at a higher price. If cash is tight, DIY is the way to go.
- How much time do you have? If you’re in a rush to sell, a professional can get the job done quickly. DIY staging takes more time and effort.
- How confident are you in your design skills? If you’re unsure how to style your home effectively, a stager might be worth the investment. If you love home décor and have an eye for design, DIY could be a fun challenge.
- Does your home need major updates? If your furniture is in great condition and your layout works well, DIY staging can be effective. If your home feels outdated or uninviting, professional help might be necessary.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, staging is a game-changer when it comes to selling your home. Whether you hire a professional or do it yourself depends on your budget, timeline, and comfort level with interior design.

If you’re willing to put in the effort, DIY staging can save you money while still making your home look its best. However, if you want a completely polished, move-in-ready presentation without the hassle, hiring a pro could be the smarter move.

Whichever path you choose, one thing is certain—staging isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about helping buyers envision their future in your home. And that? That’s priceless.