Should I hire a stager for a faster sale?
Want to sell in days, not months? Should you hire a stager to make that happen?
Quick answer
Yes. Professional home staging speeds sales and often increases final price. For most listings, staging is an investment that pays. This post explains why, when to hire, what it costs, and how to get the biggest return.
Why staging sells faster
- First impressions matter. Buyers decide within seconds.
- Staged homes photograph better for listings. Better photos = more showings.
- Staging highlights the home’s function. Buyers picture themselves living there.
- Better presentation often shortens time on market and increases offers.
Industry reports show staged homes can sell faster and for a higher price. Exact numbers vary by market, but a modest price bump (often 2–6% or more) is common. That turns staging into a clear profit play on most homes.
When you should definitely hire a stager
- The home is empty or nearly empty.
- Layout or flow is unclear.
- The property targets move-up or luxury buyers.
- You need a fast sale — tight deadlines, job transfers, or investor flips.
If the house shows well, is updated, and already attracts steady showings, staging may be optional. But even updated homes get a lift from styling and decluttering.
What a stager does (and what it costs)
- Declutter and depersonalize.
- Arrange furniture to show purpose and flow.
- Add neutral decor, lighting, and art to boost appeal.
- Recommend small repairs and paint updates.
Typical costs vary by market and property size. In many areas expect a staging investment between CAD 1,000–5,000 for basic services, or higher for full-model home staging. Rentals for furniture and monthly fees apply for long-term staging. Always get a clear bid with line items.
Quick ROI math (simple example)
List price: CAD 600,000
Conservative uplift: 3% = CAD 18,000
Staging cost: CAD 2,500
Net lift: CAD 15,500
Even small percentage gains often cover staging and then some.
How to pick the right stager
- Review before-and-after photos.
- Ask for case studies with sale results.
- Confirm the stager understands local buyer profiles.
- Get a written scope, timeline, and clear pricing.
- Work with a listing agent who coordinates staging and marketing.
Final call: make staging work for you
Staging is not a gimmick. It’s a targeted marketing move that speeds sales and boosts price when done correctly. For a local edge, work with an agent who knows the Toronto and surrounding markets and has trusted stagers.
Want help deciding for your home? Contact Tony Sousa — local realtor who coordinates staging, photography, and fast sales. Email: tony@sousasells.ca | Phone: 416-477-2620 | https://www.sousasells.ca
