How Much Does it Cost to Stage a House?

Staging a house costs $995, on average, but there are a lot of factors at play. The cost to stage a house depends largely on the type of stager you use, the size of the home, the amount of furniture and decor needed, and how long the home needs to be staged. Going the DIY route can be a more budget-friendly option, but you’ll want to factor in the extra time and effort you’ll need to make up for paying a professional.

When considering costs for staging a home, it’s helpful to keep in mind that staging is more than just adding furniture and decorating your home. Depending on the state of the home, it could also include decluttering, painting, completing minor repairs, and deep cleaning. While it is an investment, staging often helps homes sell faster and at a higher price, making it a worthwhile expense for many sellers.

What is home staging?

Home staging is the process of furnishing and decorating a home to appeal to potential buyers. It’s used to showcase your home in the best possible light, highlighting its strengths and helping buyers imagine themselves living there.

According to the National Association of Realtors, 81% of buyer’s agents believe staging makes it easier for buyers to picture a property as their future home. Staged homes tend to sell faster and often for higher prices compared to unstaged properties. This added appeal can make staging a smart investment, especially in competitive markets. 

How much does it cost to stage a house on average?

The national average cost to stage a home is $995, according to Thumbtack. The average cost can range between $598 and $1,201, depending on the size of your property, its location, and the level of staging required. 

Consultation cost: $150-$600

Many professional stagers charge an upfront consultation fee. During this visit, they’ll evaluate your home and provide recommendations on decor and furnishings. The initial cost is typically between $150 and $600 for a one- to two-hour initial consultation. Some staging companies may offer a free consultation when you book a staging session. You can also choose to purchase a consultation to limit your professional assistance and save some money. 

Occupied home staging costs: $1,000-$3,000

Staging an occupied home often requires less home-staging time and is less costly, since your home is already furnished. If you’re staging multiple rooms or an entire home, costs can range from $1,000 for minimal staging (e.g., decluttering and small updates) to over $3,000 for full-scale staging with high-end furnishings. 

Vacant home staging costs: $4,000-$6,000

Empty properties typically require more extensive staging. Stagers need to bring in furniture, décor, and all the little details to create a lived-in feel. With the included cost of furniture rentals, vacant home staging usually starts around $4,000. Remember, some fees are per month, so if your home is on the market for an extended period of time, costs may increase. However, this investment can often pay off by attracting more offers to sell your home faster. 

What factors affect home staging prices?

A few key factors influence the total cost of staging your home:

• Square footage: Larger homes require more furniture, décor, and effort to stage, which can increase costs. 
• Number of rooms staged: Staging just one or two key rooms, like the living room and master bedroom, is less expensive than staging the whole house. 
• Type of furnishings: High-end or designer furniture will cost more than standard décor. 
• Location: Staging service rates may vary depending on where you live. Urban or high-demand areas may come with higher prices compared to less competitive markets. 

Are there budget-friendly alternatives to professional staging?

Yes! If professional staging feels out of reach, there are cost-effective strategies to help you present your home beautifully:

• DIY staging: Rearrange your existing furniture to maximize space and flow. Remove personal items, declutter, and add neutral décor. Learn more about DIY Staging. 
• Virtual staging: For roughly $100 to $1,000, virtual staging companies can digitally furnish your home in listing photos, making it more appealing online. 
• Staging a choice room: Prioritize staging the most impactful spaces, such as the living room, kitchen, and primary bedroom. Fifty-seven percent of buyers surveyed in 2024 said a home having their preferred style of kitchen was a very or extremely important home characteristic.

Is home staging worth the cost?

For many sellers, staging is a worthwhile investment. A faster sale and potentially higher offer price often offset the cost of staging, but you should ask your real estate agent about the benefits of staging in your specific area. 

Whether you stage your house yourself or use a professional staging company, the aim is to create a clean but cozy atmosphere that helps buyers recognize the home’s best features without being distracted by a cluttered space. Your agent can advise on which efforts are worth the investment and recommend experienced stagers — they might even help you avoid unnecessary costs by providing light staging with your own furniture. If you’re not working with any professionals yet, you can find an agent who understands your local market to guide you through the process of marketing your home.

Can staging costs be included in the overall home sale process?

Some real estate agents offer staging as part of their services or cover staging costs upfront, deducting them from the sale proceeds later. If this arrangement interests you, discuss it with your agent to explore your options.