It can range from $250, more or less, up to thousands of dollars.

For $250 (and the number varies somewhat), many stagers will come in, spend several hours consulting, and provide a written report or checklist of recommendations. It usually also includes an estimate for a full staging to be performed by the stager. If the homeowner (or Realtor) is able and willing to do what's recommended in the report and during the visit, that's the total cost.

The next step up is using existing items, coupled with cleaning, decluttering, and often painting. Some stagers will do this themselves; others will provide contact information so that the homeowner can do it. Either way, you'll be paying for someone's time. The stager may have small items in inventory to help stage the property.

The next step up--more often used on vacant properties--involves the rental of furniture and other large pieces. Although some stagers do have their own couches, chairs, etc., many will rent them on an as-needed basis.

So, the cost can be as little as $250 (more or less), or as much as $3,000-$5,000, or conceivably even more. And keep in mind that the cost of even a full-blown staging is often much less than the first price reduction on a listed property.

Fri May 9 2008, 11:00

If you are talking about staging a vacant property, you will have the expense of furniture and accessory rental as well as the staging fee. Some say to figure 1% of the asking price of the home to be a realistic budget for total staging costs. Most costs are based on a 3-month rental in my area. I personally have found it possible to stage vacant homes for significantly less than 1%. Of course, it depends on the size and price point of the home. Larger homes just require more stuff! I have never had a buyer purchase the furniture or accessories that were used to stage the house, although I have heard of that.

Fri May 9 2008, 10:42

In our market we charge by the hour and either have lister pay, or the listing broker pays for it as a good faith marketing technique. The key is to determine what a stager's hourly time is worth?

Thu May 8 2008, 15:07

Lawrence,

I am not sure how much is associated with staging a home, but I know that sometimes you can stage a home at no cost. You can go to a home furnishing store or import stores and ask them to loan you a few pieces of furniture to stage a home. However, they have to see the benefit for them as well. You could plan to borrow the furniture for a short period of time, and hold an open house. Let them know that there will be an open house and their pieces will be displayed beautifully in a home environment. Make them see that it's good advertisement for them as well. You might even ask if they would like to put out coupons/incentives with your other information to promote their business. Furniture stores often have interior designers on staff that might welcome the opportunity to stage a room. It's the first impression that makes the difference. So if you are able to borrow the pieces, do the living room since it is generally the first room people see. Ask your neighbors for some of their fresh flowers to display in vases throughout. It's little things that promote creativity in people. Once people get provoked, they will start placing their furniture and pictures throughout the home in thier minds. This will get them excited and hopefully gets you an offer. I hope this helps you get your creative juices rolling. Best of luck to you.

Thu May 8 2008, 14:30

It really depends on your market area. Staging isn't going to bring you a larger profit, it will only make your home more marketable so I wouldnt spend a lot. Alot of staging is just things like the arrangement of your furniture.

Thu May 8 2008, 14:16