When selling a home, presentation plays a crucial role in attracting buyers and securing the best possible price. Many sellers wonder whether their home will sell faster and for more money if it’s vacant or lived in. Similarly, homeowners question whether an empty house or a professionally staged home will generate better results. Let’s explore these factors to help you make the best decision when listing your property.
Vacant vs. Lived-In: Which Sells Better?
A vacant home and a lived-in home each have their advantages and disadvantages. Here’s how they compare:
Vacant Home
Pros:
Easier for buyers to visualize their belongings in the space.
Shows a clean slate without personal clutter.
Convenient for showings with no scheduling conflicts.
Cons:
Can feel cold, uninviting, and less appealing without furniture or decor.
Highlights imperfections, such as scuffed floors or minor wall damages.
May suggest to buyers that the seller is desperate, leading to lower offers.
Lived-In Home
Pros:
Creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that feels “homey.”
Can showcase how the space functions for daily living.
Maintained utilities help prevent issues like stale air or plumbing concerns.
Cons:
Personal belongings and clutter can make it harder for buyers to envision themselves in the space.
Requires constant cleaning and organizing for showings.
Scheduling showings can be challenging if occupants are still living in the home.
Empty vs. Staged: Which Sells Better?
While an empty home gives buyers a blank canvas, a staged home can create an emotional connection and help buyers see the home’s full potential. Here’s a breakdown of both options:
Empty House
Pros:
Allows buyers to focus on the size and layout of the rooms.
Makes the home feel like a fresh start for the buyer.
Cons:
Feels cold and impersonal, making it harder for buyers to emotionally connect.
Empty spaces often appear smaller and less functional.
Flaws such as dents, scratches, or outdated finishes become more noticeable.
Staged House
Pros:
Creates an inviting atmosphere that helps buyers picture themselves living in the home.
Helps define the purpose of each room, especially in open floor plans.
Studies show staged homes sell faster and for a higher price.
Cons:
Professional staging can be costly.
Requires effort and coordination to set up and maintain.
The Verdict: What’s Best for Sellers?
If you have the choice, a professionally staged home—whether occupied or vacant—will almost always yield better results than an empty or cluttered space. According to real estate studies, staged homes sell faster and for more money because they create an emotional connection with buyers. However, if staging isn’t an option, keeping a well-maintained, clean, and minimally furnished home is the next best approach.
If you’re looking to sell your home and need guidance on whether to stage, leave it vacant, or showcase it lived-in, Realtor David Locke with Locke and Key Associates can help you develop a strategy that maximizes your home’s value. Contact David today to start your selling journey! David's Bacehelor Degree in Interior Design is a resource he offers to all his clients included in his services to help you stage your home with items you already have in your collection.
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