As a realtor, one of the most common questions I get from home sellers is:

"Do I really need to stage my home?"

The short answer? Yes.

But before you start worrying about costly renovations or hiring a professional designer, let’s clear up a common misconception: staging doesn’t have to mean a complete home makeover. Instead, it’s about making your home feel like a place buyers can picture themselves living in—without spending a fortune.

Selling your home is a big financial decision, and the last thing you want to do is leave money on the table. Unfortunately, many sellers make mistakes—sometimes without even realizing it—that can cost them thousands of dollars.

If you’re planning to sell, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure you get the best possible price for your home.