08/17/2026
If you’re thinking about selling your home, staging matters.
According to NAR’s 2025 report, staged homes can sell for 1% to 10% more.
But bad staging can work against you. Here are 10 mistakes I see homeowners make:
1️⃣ Too many personal photos
Buyers need to imagine their life there. Pack the family photos away for now.
2️⃣ Strong smells
Candles, plug-ins and heavy air fresheners can make buyers wonder what you’re covering up. Clean and fresh is best.
3️⃣ Too much furniture
If buyers have to squeeze around furniture, the room feels smaller. Remove what you can and let the space breathe.
4️⃣ Dark rooms
Open the blinds and turn on every light. A brighter room feels more inviting and spacious.
5️⃣ Ignoring curb appeal
First impressions start before the front door. Clean the walkway, freshen the landscaping and welcome buyers in.
6️⃣ Signs of pets everywhere
Beds, bowls, litter boxes and pet hair can distract from the home. Tuck away as much evidence as possible during showings.
7️⃣ Overly personalized rooms
Bold walls or highly specific spaces can make it harder for buyers to envision their own style. When in doubt, neutralize.
8️⃣ Cluttered countertops
Clear kitchen and bathroom counters of appliances, mail, toiletries and anything else that makes the space feel busy.
9️⃣ Dated light fixtures
Updated lighting can instantly refresh a room and make a surprisingly big visual impact.
🔟 Neglecting the garage
Buyers look there too. Sweep it out, organize the clutter and make it feel functional.
The goal isn’t to make your home look like someone else’s. It’s to make it easy for buyers to see themselves living there.
Thinking about selling this summer? Don’t wait until the sign goes in the yard. The best results start with a plan.
DM or call me to strategize a plan that fits your needs, budget and goals.
Leslie Campos
(562) 301-9983
DRE # 02085417
ΓEA⅃ 🐝